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In the Time of the Butterflies

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994

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Book Brief

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Julia Alvarez

In the Time of the Butterflies

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Dominican Republic • 1950s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez tells the story of the Mirabal sisters—Dedé, Minerva, Patria, and María Teresa—who live under the oppressive regime of Trujillo in the Dominican Republic. Narrated through multiple perspectives, the novel explores their personal and collective struggles against the dictatorship from 1943 to 1960, highlighting bravery, resistance, and sacrifice. This novel deals with themes of violence and political oppression.

Melancholic

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.3

77,530 ratings

80%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Readers praise In the Time of the Butterflies for its compelling portrayal of courage and resistance, vivid character development, and rich historical context. Some find it slow-paced at times, but overall, it's lauded for its emotional depth and powerful storytelling, making it a significant contribution to historical fiction and Latin American literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read In the Time of the Butterflies?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong female protagonists and themes of political resistance would appreciate In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez. Fans of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will find this story of the Mirabal sisters in the Dominican Republic gripping and inspiring.

4.3

77,530 ratings

80%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Dedé

Dedé Bélgica Adela Mirabal Reyes is the only Mirabal sister who survives Trujillo's regime and becomes a caretaker for her sisters' children and storyteller of their legacy.

Patria Mercedes Mirabal Reyes is the oldest and most religious sister, who initially dreams of becoming a nun but chooses family life after meeting her husband, Pedrito.

María Argentina Minerva Mirabal Reyes is the most rebellious sister, known for her outspoken nature and her early involvement in the resistance movement against Trujillo.

Antonia María Teresa Mirabal Reyes is the youngest sister, who is influenced by Minerva and joins the resistance after falling in love with Leandro Guzman.

Enrique Mirabal Fernandez is the father of the Mirabal sisters, a wealthy farmer and merchant who struggles with his daughter's involvement in political activities.

Mercedes Reyes Camilo is the mother of the Mirabal sisters, who begins as a traditionalist but grows more rebellious and supportive of her daughters' education.

Trujillo, also known as El Jefe, is the dictator of the Dominican Republic whose authoritarian rule and personality cult create an atmosphere of fear and oppression.

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Dominican Republic • 1950s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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