Rima’s Rebellion by Margarita Engle | Book Review

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This historical novel in verse is a touching story about the life of a teen girl who was born illegitimate and fought for women’s rights in torn Cuba.

Rima Marin, a fourteen-year-old girl, has been bullied all her life for being an illegitimate child. So, Rima joins the Las Mambisas (assertive women veterans), who fight for women’s rights, and kids like Rima to end the terrifying adultery law. Throughout this novel-in-verse, you will follow Rima and the Las Mambisas on their journey for equality.

This book is set in late 1920s Cuba—the setting at that time was very interesting. The book told about the dictatorship during that time. I felt sorry for how the “natural children” (what Rima called illegitimate children) were treated in the story for just living and breathing.

Rima was a very poetic and kindhearted person. She always takes the time to take care of others. Along the way, Rima will make unexpected friendships and maybe find love.
Her half-sister Violeta was a sweet person. I was unhappy about how her father treated her; he treated Rima and her mother like they were his property.

The theme of Rima’s Rebellion is to have “courage in a time of tyranny”-Rima’s Rebellion. I would give this book to readers who like a moving, beautifully-written historical novel, especially those interested in Cuba’s History and women’s equality.

Be aware of some complex and sad parts.

My rating