In the Time of the Butterflies – Book Review

Last updated on October 6, 2020

Do you know why November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women? In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez tells the story of the Mirabel sisters, three sisters who dared challenge Trujillo in Dominican Republic in the 50s. The dictator’s regime killed them on November 25, 1960 to try to dampen opposition activities in the country. Although the women are real and considered heroes in Dominican Republic, this is a work of fiction.

The author fills in the blanks to create an interesting story about the Mirabel sisters. I enjoyed reading this book although some of the foreshadowing and build-up is overblown. The women feel real, with their insecurities and frailties juxtaposed against their strength and determination. Although I did not find some of the representations of the sisters to be convincing, I recommend In the Time of the Butterflies as an engaging read. I was completely unfamiliar with the history of the Dominican Republic, and have learned a little bit about it from reading this book.