This is a beautifully written tragic historical novel about a period in time that many are not familiar with. The author did extensive research and many of the incidents that happened in the book are based on real accounts from survivors of this horrific period. I was completely engrossed by the story which was both powerful and heartbreaking. I fully expect this book to be able to hold it's own and make it onto recommended reading lists for years to come.
Appropriateness: This book like many that detail horrific historical incidents is difficult to read at times.
would compare it to a Holocaust novel like The Devil's Arithmetic in content with it being difficult to read but well suited for the middle/high school audience that will read it. There is no rape, no physical torture and the kids survive. There are deaths of main characters and plenty of difficult incidents. I would recommend this book to readers 12 and up and would encourage parents to read the book along with their kids and discuss it together. It is a very good book that can be equally enjoyed by teens and adults.
