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School Library Journal
Starred Review on November 1, 2010
Gr 7-10 With authenticity, insight, and compassion, Perkins delivers another culturally rich coming-of-age novel. Two teens on opposing sides of ethnic conflict in modern-day Burma (Myanmar) tell an intertwined story that poignantly reveals the fear, violence, prejudice, and hardships they both experience. Chiko, a quiet, studious student whose medical doctor father has been arrested as a traitor, is seized by the government and forced into military training. Chiko is groomed for guerrilla warfare against the Karenni, a Burmese minority group living in villages and refugee camps along the Thai-B...Log In or Sign Up to Read More
Horn Book Magazine
Reviewed on July 1, 2010
While Chiko doesn't completely believe the Burmese government is really hiring teachers, he dreams of becoming one, so he goes to the recruitment meeting—and finds himself abruptly press-ganged into the army and summarily bused to a remote camp in the border region to help put down the Karenni rebellion. Writing in a present tense that adds urgency to the story, Perkins draws a pers...Log In or Sign Up to Read More
Horn Book Guide
Reviewed on January 1, 2010
Bookish Chiko is press-ganged into the Burmese army. His faith and humanity serve him well after he's captured by Karenni rebe...Log In or Sign Up to Read More
Junior Library Guild
Reviewed on August 1, 2010
Chiko and Tu Reh have distinct, compelling voices and viewpoints. Despite their enmity, each one is a sympathetic and persuasive character, with relatable doubts, fears, and hopes. Th...Log In or Sign Up to Read More