Before We Were Free

by Julia Alvarez
Before We Were Free cover
Good Books rating 3.88
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 9975
  • Added: 2026-01-05
  • Updated: 2026-02-15
  • ISBN: 9780307433176
  • Publisher: Laurel Leaf
  • Published: 2007-12-18
  • Reviews: 4

Anita de la Torre's idyllic life in the Dominican Republic is shattered when she turns 12 in 1960. Her relatives have emigrated, her uncle has vanished, and the government's secret police terrorize her family. Based on the author's own experiences, this novel explores the harsh realities of life under a dictatorship and the strength required to overcome fear. /n/n Anita's journey is one of resilience and bravery as she navigates the dangers of her country and ultimately finds the courage to leave everything behind for a chance at freedom. This powerful story delves into themes of family, perseverance, and the struggle for liberty.

Reviews
MVL Teen Voice · 2023-10-14
compelling 4.00

The book starts slowly but quickly picks up pace, making it an engaging read that leaves readers wanting more.

While the beginning of the book may be a bit slow, it quickly picks up pace and becomes an engaging and compelling read. The story's momentum builds as it progresses, drawing the reader deeper into the narrative. The themes of courage, family, and the fight for justice are powerfully conveyed, making it a memorable and impactful read. This book is a great choice for those who enjoy stories that combine personal and political struggles.

Quick quotes

    Although this book starts off slow, it takes off very quickly, and will leave readers interested in reading the whole thing!

    The story's momentum builds as it progresses, drawing the reader deeper into the narrative.

    The themes of courage, family, and the fight for justice are powerfully conveyed, making it a memorable and impactful read.

Cannonball Read · 2022-10-11
engaging 3.00

While the writing is engaging, the book feels more suited for a middle-grade audience than young adults. Older readers might find the content somewhat simplistic.

The reviewer found Alvarez's writing engaging but felt that the book was more suited for a middle-grade audience rather than young adults. They appreciated the narrative's simplicity, which makes it accessible for younger readers, but noted that older readers might find the content somewhat thin. Despite this, they acknowledged the book's ability to convey important themes of courage and family in a way that resonates with its intended audience.

Quick quotes

    Alvarez's writing is engaging.

    This isn't to say that older readers won't enjoy it, but it feels more suited for a middle-grade book.

    The book's narrative is accessible for younger readers.

Selma P Verde · 2021-09-06
engaging 4.50

The character of Anita is compelling, and her personal journey is engaging, making the story relatable and impactful.

Anita's character is the heart of this story, and her personal journey is both engaging and relatable. The way she shares her feelings and experiences draws the reader in, making her story feel deeply personal. The author does an excellent job of capturing the essence of a young girl navigating a complex and dangerous world. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for a story that combines personal growth with historical significance.

Quick quotes

    I really liked the book and engaged with Anita's character as she told the story from her point of view.

    I related to her sharing her feelings and experiences, making her story feel deeply personal.

    This book is a must-read for anyone looking for a story that combines personal growth with historical significance.

Thoughts on Papyrus · 2020-02-01
poignant 4.00

The book beautifully captures the complexities of late childhood, blending joy and sorrow with themes of first love and teenage insecurities.

This book is a heartfelt exploration of growing up in a tumultuous time. The narrative skillfully intertwines the innocent joys and painful sorrows of adolescence, making it a relatable and poignant read. The author's ability to balance these emotions with the political backdrop creates a rich, layered story that resonates with both teens and adults. It's a testament to the power of family and the courage needed to navigate through difficult times.

Quick quotes

    Alvarez's book strikes a delicate balance between the joys and sorrows of late childhood, including first love and early teenage insecurities.

    The narrative skillfully intertwines the innocent joys and painful sorrows of adolescence.

    It's a testament to the power of family and the courage needed to navigate through difficult times.

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