‘It makes you want to get up and dance’ Sunday Times

‘Street-smart and lyrical, impassioned and reflective … a rich and provocative book’ The New York Times

In 1949 two young Cuban musicians, brothers Cesar and Nestor, leave Havana for New York.

By day they work hard, by night they are the Mambo Kings- packing out clubs, dance halls and theatres with their sensuous, pulsing Latin music.

This is the captivating story of charming, vivacious womanizer Cesar and quiet, romantic Nestor - still nursing an unrequited love for ‘beautiful Maria of my soul’ - and their changing fortunes as they try to make it big in America.

Evoking a world of smoky clubs, steamy nights, sharp suits and stiletto heels, it is a joyous yet ultimately poignant hymn to love, family, community and the life-enhancing power of music.

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize