In the Time of the Butterflies

By Julia Alvarez

In the 1950s and '60s the Dominican Republic is under the thumb of the dictator, Rafael Leonidas Trujillo. On November 25, 1960, three of four sisters who were leaders in a rebellion to overthrow him were killed. This book by Ms. Alvarez shows their development from children to women and how they became involved in the rebellion. Sprinkled throughout their history are glimpses into Dede's life-how she continued on living without her three sisters, and how she brings up the children of all four sisters. This is a harrowing, sad tale but also shows how hope, perseverance, and sisterhood can conquer against all odds.

Reviewed by Beckyelsie