Reading Level: Young Adult

Anita de la Torre lives in the Dominican Republic during the reign of the dictator Raphel Trujillo. When Anita is twelve years old in 1960 her family is committed to the overthrow of the dictator. Her aunts, uncles and cousins gradually leave the family compound of homes to immigrate to the United States. Finally Anita's parents and their three children are left in the family compound.

As Anita and the reader gradually become aware of her family's role in a conspiracy, the suspense thickens until Anita and her mother are taken from their hiding place at the Italian embassy and spirited out of the country.

This first person account of a young girl's escape from fear to freedom is highly recommended for upper grade girls who like stories of mystery and suspense.

— Carole Earle, Member SCBWI