Before We Were Free

This is a heart-wrenching yet inspiring story of a 12-year-old girl, Anita de la Torre, living in the Dominican Republic in 1960 under the brutal dictatorship of el Trujillo.

As her family and friends flee to the United States, Anita must confront her fears and embark on a perilous journey to freedom.

With the strength and courage of her family, she overcomes incredible obstacles to escape the clutches of the government's secret police and find safety in a new land.

Julia Alvarez brings to life the political story through Anita's eyes, drawing on her own experiences and those of her cousins and friends.

This is a gripping and unforgettable tale of adolescence, perseverance, and the fight for freedom that will leave readers in awe of Anita's resilience and determination.