The overarching theme in this book is that, despite the "rectification period" begun in 1986 and the 1990s crisis known as the "special period," the Cuban revolution remains on track. The special period's goals of "survival" and "development" were achieved. Among its case studies the book includes the Cuban economy, state farms, poverty, women and aging, and education. Comparisons are drawn with other developing countries, with data obtained from organizations such as the UNDP, ECLAC, and the World Bank.