121 pages • 4 hours read
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352
Novel • Fiction
Dominican Republic • 1950s
1994
Adult
14-18 years
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
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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.
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.
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Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Patria
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.
Minerva
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.
María Teresa (Mate)
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.
Papá
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.
Mamá
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.
Rafael Leonidas Trujillo
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.
352
Novel • Fiction
Dominican Republic • 1950s
1994
Adult
14-18 years
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