The Mirabal Sisters, From Caterpillars to Butterflies

 "An inspiring and unusual story of heroic women." - Kirkus Reviews

Born in a small town in the Dominican Republic, the Mirabal sisters lived at a time when the country was under the merciless rule of a dictatorship. Their deaths on November 25, 1960 (at ages 36, 34, and 25), have received international coverage. In their honor, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed annually on November 25.

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Raynelda's newest book is a powerful addition to her collection of children's books about inspirational Hispanic women throughout history.

The Mirabal Sisters: From Caterpillars to Butterflies, strikes a stark contrast between the power of love and the greed for power, and highlights for young people the importance of being brave.

The four sisters - Patria, Ded, Minerva, and Mara Teresa - grew up in a happy and loving home in the Dominican Republic, but they lived with the ever-pressing cloud of the dictator-president Trujillo's rule hanging over them. Trujillo allowed the people very little freedom. The Mirabal sisters knew the power of a loving home, as well as the power of bucking "the normal" (such as women not wearing pants or driving cars like men did), and they would not settle for the tyranny of Trujillo's reign.

The beloved sisters were called "Las Mariposas (The Butterflies)" by their people, and they really did have a butterfly effect on their country by standing up to Trujillo. Three of the 4 sisters did not live to see the results of their courage, but fear of the future did not stop them from being brave.

Raynelda tells the story of the Mirabal sisters vividly, and Mara Ocampo's illustrations help bring them to life. The Mirabal sisters may have lived many years ago now, but their story is of timeless importance: they are an example of fearless bravery in the ominous face of darkness.