Oxford English Dictionary

Twelve-year-old Anita lives in the Dominican Republic with her entire family in the early 1960s, during which time Dominicans were either trying to flee their homeland or show their courage by fighting for their freedom. Although many of her family members leave for the United States, Anita stays with her Mami and Papi as they try to help fight the cause. Anita struggles with her family’s uncertain future, her developing body, avoiding the secret police, and her feelings for her new neighbor Sam Washburn. As the situation deteriorates, Anita’s uncle and Papi are imprisoned, and Anita and her Mami go into hiding. Eventually, Anita and her Mami are able to escape and go to the United States to join the rest of the family. As they begin to settle in, they receive some heartbreaking news. Readers will be inspired by Anita’s bravery and courage as she faces the unknown.