The Surrender Tree is a quick but intriguing story that introduces readers to a young Cuban woman named Rosa who only wants to heal the injured and the sick. The story follows Rosa through all three of Cuba's wars for independence and covers Rosa's life as a result. Rosa is simply trying to help the injured but because she helps the rebels as well, her life is forfeit if the Spaniards ever catch her. As a result, Rosa must move constantly to escape detection. The story focuses on Rosa's life when she was still a slave and had to help a slave catcher, her attempts to heal any in need of help as Cuba fights first Spain for independence and then the United States, and her final hope for peace. The entire book is written in verse and from multiple perspectives so it's gives a more well-rounded view of the conflicts. It's well-written and intriguing so I'd certainly recommend it to teens interested in Cuban history and poetry.