A somewhat disappointing Civil War novel.  I kept waiting for the book to get going, but it kind of just poked along to the end.

These companion books take place in a fictional country in modern day Africa.  Looking at  the problem of AIDS and child soldiers respectively, these books are difficult to read.  Yet, through his main character, Chanda, Stratton offers hope in the midst of despair.

Banner was only 14 years old when she started writing this book.  Five years later, she is a published author, with a fabulous novel to her name.  Although it gets a little long near the end, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and am looking forward to reading much more from Banner in the future.

Due to the recent birth of my daughter, my reviews will be short and sweet for the next few months.  Please forgive me!  I’m still reading–I just don’t have the time (or energy) to compose any type of in-depth review.