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War Kids #1
War Kids
When fourteen-year-old Jada wakes up in a hospital, the last thing she thinks is that her life has completely changed forever. But when the very real civil war forces her to flee from every open space, she must use the firearm skills her father taught her to reunite with him and protect herself.
Armed with a single gun and a key to an unknown locker, Jada crosses Syria on a journey with a group of children called the Fearless Freedom Fighters.
With the leader, Zak, they mount a plan to rescue their fathers while they try to cope with the merciless murders of their families. As Jada and Zak lead the group together, love blossoms, but with soldiers hot on their tail, they need to stay vigilant in the face of war
Armed with a single gun and a key to an unknown locker, Jada crosses Syria on a journey with a group of children called the Fearless Freedom Fighters.
With the leader, Zak, they mount a plan to rescue their fathers while they try to cope with the merciless murders of their families. As Jada and Zak lead the group together, love blossoms, but with soldiers hot on their tail, they need to stay vigilant in the face of war
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2014
64 people are currently reading
1083 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 30, 2015
*I got this book in YA Spring Fling*
This book was very different from all other books I have read so far. I cried, laughed and even rolled my eyes, but this book just made me think about the kids who don't even know if their parents are alive. They don't know about their future. This book is about those small hands which hold guns. This book is about those innocent eyes which see their dear and near ones' corpses. This book is about those young brain which will never feel secure.
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
JADA, a 15 year old girl and ZAK, a 16 year old boy. They, along with a kid TILLY, set out to find their fathers who were kidnapped just before they mothers were shot. This book talks about their journey and the struggles. Things they go through and things they see through those innocent eyes.
I really loved the former half of the book. It just fulfilled my expectations. The latter half was a little weak and stretched, I think. The character building in this book is very weak. In the former, a character is intelligent and observant, and as the story ends, the same character is shown so weak that the story sound abrupt at times. also, I really didn't like the blooming love in the middle of a war, this really did affect my rating a little bit.
Overall, it was a great book. I am really looking forward to read the second book. I hope it turns out to be good like this one!!
4 stars!!! :)
August 10, 2014
A REMARKABLE BOOK, DEMANDS TO BE READ
Hayley Lawson is a first time author and, for her first work, she has courageously chosen a huge and urgent topic: the civil war in Syria and its impact on the innocent chidren of the country. She has bitten off a massive chunk of tragedy for her first effort and sometimes it's almost more than she can chew. The sheer weight of the events she describes strains her nascent capabilities, resulting in a somewhat uneven narrative. But Hayley's great strength is her emotional commitment to her subject. She sees the plight of these children with a mother's heart and she relentlessly portrays the violence, chaos and sheer agony caused by the conflict. Several times, I had to put the book down, saying to myself, "Enough! Enough!" Hayley's professed aim is to evoke an emotional response from the reader, to make the reader feel with the children. On this level, the book is a success. The suffering of the children drives this book into the "Must Read" column.
The book does have limitations. First, it fails to develop the context in which the conflict occurs and so, while it tells the reader how to feel, it does not give him a framework in which to think. It begins with the chaos of a bloodbath in which unidentified soldier hunt down and murder schoolchildren. Chaos and disorientation can be a useful device, but the book never moves beyond them. Everything is chaos and the conflict never comes into focus.
Second, the book does not explore the way in which the different children, Muslim and Christian, think about the conflict. The failure of modern, secular Westerners to recognize the essential role of religion in the Middle East is part of the ongoing tragedy of the region. It makes us incapable of understanding the people and their motivations and of developing effective strategies to deal with them.
Third, the chief characters, a boy and girl who are each 14-15 years old, should be more mature than their Western counterparts. But the mental world they inhabit, aside from a puppy love subplot which doesn't really work, is largely indistinguishable from that of the younger children. These characters are old enough, and should be canny enough, to know what's going on in their immediate surroundings. But they appear completely baffled by, even unaware of, the political and religious conflicts engulfing them.
Nevertheless, the emotional strength of this book overcomes its limitations. It demands to be read.
August 21, 2014
War Kids is a post apocalyptic current day story about kids surviving in Syria for the purpose of escaping to Jordan.
The kids experience death, murder and violence and try to survive. They do this by focussing on their training and what is happening at the time around them. The way the kids analysed situations and made decisions is a vital and important part of the story.
The book is a very interesting and dynamic look at this current humanitarian disaster.
It is not a completely happy story. It cannot be given the subject matter. The kids Jada and Zak are heroes and very likeable.
Well done to Hayley for writing this great book. There may be a sequel which would be very interesting.
The kids experience death, murder and violence and try to survive. They do this by focussing on their training and what is happening at the time around them. The way the kids analysed situations and made decisions is a vital and important part of the story.
The book is a very interesting and dynamic look at this current humanitarian disaster.
It is not a completely happy story. It cannot be given the subject matter. The kids Jada and Zak are heroes and very likeable.
Well done to Hayley for writing this great book. There may be a sequel which would be very interesting.
September 25, 2014
This book started off with a promising plot concept. However, by chapter 4…. All of my expectations were completely SHOT OUT OF THE WATER! Wow, the way she brought Jada and Zac to life was exceptional, and I do believe we have the next big author busting out in this book. She brought forth the confrontation in Syria and drew you in with emotions that you couldn’t help but feel for the characters. AND SO MANY CHARACTERS!
I’m usually not a fan of different character POV, but as I turned the page from Jada’s story to Zac’s, I was intrigued with the way she just faded POV so effortlessly. Jada is a true survivor and I love how you can really relate to everything she does.
I will be anxiously waiting for any and all books that this author will be writing in the future!!!
May 26, 2017
First, thanks to author HJ Lawson for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review!
Now, on to the review.
War, war never changes
Ok, so I loved this book. I particularly love war stories, in all their genres, but this is unlike anything I've ever read before. Never have I read war portrayed entirely from the children's perspective. And I thought it was brilliantly done.
I fell for the characters right away, because they were strong and honest, and felt real. Each of them struggling to cope with the horrors they've seen, yet they manage to be kind and generous and trusting towards other kids, even when it .
Also, I liked how, although brief, different takes on war are portrayed. You have the people who are direct victims of it, who in spite of not wanting to have anything to do with it they end up suffering their consequences the most.
Then you got the people who are there to help for the love of the human race. They don't need to be there, they don't have to care, yet they do. They represent what should mean to be human.
Then you have the example of someone from across the globe who thinks a war in a different country has nothing to do with them. Absolutely valid opinion. Why should you want to fight another's man war?
And then you have someone whose job is war.
I think that how all this different people fit together in the story is amazing.
And the mystery! I sure as hell would like to know how that unfolds!
My only complaint would be that the book is too short. I realized from the very beginning the whole story wouldn’t fit in just one book and I don't see the need to partition it. Maybe a longer but stand-alone book would've been better in my opinion.
The last thing it kind of bothered me was the first person, present tense narrative. I found it distracting, especially with so many characters point of view, in the present and the past. I thought a third person would have been much better too. To explain feelings and thoughts that perhaps were a little bit forced or felt untrue on the characters for the sake of the narrative. But that’s it.
It was a great book, a totally recommended read!
I absolutely look forward to reading the next one!
Now, on to the review.
War, war never changes
Ok, so I loved this book. I particularly love war stories, in all their genres, but this is unlike anything I've ever read before. Never have I read war portrayed entirely from the children's perspective. And I thought it was brilliantly done.
I fell for the characters right away, because they were strong and honest, and felt real. Each of them struggling to cope with the horrors they've seen, yet they manage to be kind and generous and trusting towards other kids, even when it .
Also, I liked how, although brief, different takes on war are portrayed. You have the people who are direct victims of it, who in spite of not wanting to have anything to do with it they end up suffering their consequences the most.
Then you got the people who are there to help for the love of the human race. They don't need to be there, they don't have to care, yet they do. They represent what should mean to be human.
Then you have the example of someone from across the globe who thinks a war in a different country has nothing to do with them. Absolutely valid opinion. Why should you want to fight another's man war?
And then you have someone whose job is war.
I think that how all this different people fit together in the story is amazing.
And the mystery! I sure as hell would like to know how that unfolds!
My only complaint would be that the book is too short. I realized from the very beginning the whole story wouldn’t fit in just one book and I don't see the need to partition it. Maybe a longer but stand-alone book would've been better in my opinion.
The last thing it kind of bothered me was the first person, present tense narrative. I found it distracting, especially with so many characters point of view, in the present and the past. I thought a third person would have been much better too. To explain feelings and thoughts that perhaps were a little bit forced or felt untrue on the characters for the sake of the narrative. But that’s it.
It was a great book, a totally recommended read!
I absolutely look forward to reading the next one!
July 20, 2016
Ok, let's be honest. Reading the plot I knew that this couldn't end in just ONE book, and I said: 'If I like it, I'll buy the next book'
But you know what? I didn't like it... I LOVED IT!! This is one of the best books I've ever read!!!
I'm so freaking in love with this book that I can't even imagine how will be the next one! So I can't help asking to the author:
Why giving me away a free book if I have to wait until
is released?
Yeah... I know... I 'm being a little bit dramatic, but it's because I really really love this book.
Although the story is about Jada, there are more characters that give suspense to the story. Also it's very interesting how they are connected with each other, even without knowing it.
There are many exciting surprises and unexpected twists that I didn't anticipate and I'm very pleased for that.
I recommend this book for everyone who enjoys a good reading... This book is definitely worth it.
(I have a new favourite author! yay!)
A HUUUUGE thanks to the author for providing me this copy. I won this through a Goodreads giveaway but this fact didn't influence the review.
But you know what? I didn't like it... I LOVED IT!! This is one of the best books I've ever read!!!
I'm so freaking in love with this book that I can't even imagine how will be the next one! So I can't help asking to the author:
Why giving me away a free book if I have to wait until
is released? Yeah... I know... I 'm being a little bit dramatic, but it's because I really really love this book.
Although the story is about Jada, there are more characters that give suspense to the story. Also it's very interesting how they are connected with each other, even without knowing it.
There are many exciting surprises and unexpected twists that I didn't anticipate and I'm very pleased for that.
I recommend this book for everyone who enjoys a good reading... This book is definitely worth it.
(I have a new favourite author! yay!)
A HUUUUGE thanks to the author for providing me this copy. I won this through a Goodreads giveaway but this fact didn't influence the review.
April 8, 2017
I didn't read the full synopsis of this book when I requested it in NetGalley. The girl on the cover and title caught my attention.
I was aware that this was going to be a sad read so I prepared myself but it was not enough. I had goosebumps and I cannot remember anymore how many times I had to stop reading to wipe away my tears.
This book is told through shifting of different POVs of several children and some adults who were caught in the middle of a civil war in Syria. The author did a great job on this one because not many authors can switch different POVs regularly without confusing the readers.
I personally like the author's writing style in this book. It is descriptively written that I could feel the character's emotions. Despite the heartaches caused by the war, these kids still know how to laugh, love and play. It has quite a lot of characters but it didn't bother me at all because they were all amazing and likeable.
There were surprising twists and revelations towards the end that will left the readers more questions. This will also make you grab the second book to know the answers.
A great and very powerful book that will help us see and feel how it is to be in the middle of a war, not only as a victim but also as a fighter.
Heartbreaking, though-provoking and an eye-opener. I'm excited for the second book and will definitely recommend this to my fellow readers.
I was aware that this was going to be a sad read so I prepared myself but it was not enough. I had goosebumps and I cannot remember anymore how many times I had to stop reading to wipe away my tears.
This book is told through shifting of different POVs of several children and some adults who were caught in the middle of a civil war in Syria. The author did a great job on this one because not many authors can switch different POVs regularly without confusing the readers.
I personally like the author's writing style in this book. It is descriptively written that I could feel the character's emotions. Despite the heartaches caused by the war, these kids still know how to laugh, love and play. It has quite a lot of characters but it didn't bother me at all because they were all amazing and likeable.
There were surprising twists and revelations towards the end that will left the readers more questions. This will also make you grab the second book to know the answers.
A great and very powerful book that will help us see and feel how it is to be in the middle of a war, not only as a victim but also as a fighter.
Heartbreaking, though-provoking and an eye-opener. I'm excited for the second book and will definitely recommend this to my fellow readers.
February 4, 2015
I was asked to read this book by the author via Goodreads for an honest review.
And being honest, whilst I read a great deal, this book is not my normal genre and is slightly too real a subject matter for me. However, that being said I loved this book, it is exeptional!
For a first book, this author managed to capture the imagination from the first line. I thought the descriptive quality thoughout the book was amazing, I could actually picture the devastation in my mind surrouding the characters, which is truely a gift.
Following the story of Jada a child surving the horror of war in Syria, it takes you on an incredible heartbreaking journey of survival and a childs resiliance to the world and situations surrounding them.
I am definitely looking forwards to what Hayley writes next.
And being honest, whilst I read a great deal, this book is not my normal genre and is slightly too real a subject matter for me. However, that being said I loved this book, it is exeptional!
For a first book, this author managed to capture the imagination from the first line. I thought the descriptive quality thoughout the book was amazing, I could actually picture the devastation in my mind surrouding the characters, which is truely a gift.
Following the story of Jada a child surving the horror of war in Syria, it takes you on an incredible heartbreaking journey of survival and a childs resiliance to the world and situations surrounding them.
I am definitely looking forwards to what Hayley writes next.
February 8, 2015
I picked this up during a free give away.
Let’s dive right into. The story centers around Zak and Jada; two kids caught up in a war they had no choice in being involved in. The first chapters are excellent! Let me say that again. The descriptions and horrors the children are faced with will have readers cringing at the cruelty of war. The farther I read, the more I kept asking, “where is this taking place? The UK? Europe? The US? I had no clue until I hit the kindle 42% mark—Syria. This was very distracting. Readers shouldn’t have to guess where the story is taking place whether it’s fiction or non-fiction.
My biggest complaint is how the story kept jumping around with the characters. It reminded me of the “Last Jump” by John E Nevola, which I thoroughly enjoyed with the exception of feeling like I was in a tennis match. Much too distracting. The parts where the story jumped back fifteen to twenty years just didn’t hold any weight or substance. It wasn’t necessary. And lastly, some of the chapter subheadings didn’t to fit the chapters. Once in-particular was Ch 41, “reunited with our fathers.” It never happens and then same sub-heading is used again in Ch 45. Why?
Since this is a book of fiction why in the world was President Obama brought into it? This held no relevance at all for me. But since the author chose to mention him, based on his policies and handling of the current wars and his condemnation of the conflicts Bush started, why in the world does the author believe he’d get involved in another Middle Eastern Conflict?
The use of exclamation points became oppressive. I understand these are teenagers dealing with a host of feelings and experiences they’ve shared, but I can’t believe they’d constantly be yelling at each other. Sometimes, yes. Others, no. There are also some formatting issues and a sprinkling of missing or misspelled words.
I did enjoy the ending as all the loose strings were finally tied together, but not enough to read the second one.
Three star work.
Let’s dive right into. The story centers around Zak and Jada; two kids caught up in a war they had no choice in being involved in. The first chapters are excellent! Let me say that again. The descriptions and horrors the children are faced with will have readers cringing at the cruelty of war. The farther I read, the more I kept asking, “where is this taking place? The UK? Europe? The US? I had no clue until I hit the kindle 42% mark—Syria. This was very distracting. Readers shouldn’t have to guess where the story is taking place whether it’s fiction or non-fiction.
My biggest complaint is how the story kept jumping around with the characters. It reminded me of the “Last Jump” by John E Nevola, which I thoroughly enjoyed with the exception of feeling like I was in a tennis match. Much too distracting. The parts where the story jumped back fifteen to twenty years just didn’t hold any weight or substance. It wasn’t necessary. And lastly, some of the chapter subheadings didn’t to fit the chapters. Once in-particular was Ch 41, “reunited with our fathers.” It never happens and then same sub-heading is used again in Ch 45. Why?
Since this is a book of fiction why in the world was President Obama brought into it? This held no relevance at all for me. But since the author chose to mention him, based on his policies and handling of the current wars and his condemnation of the conflicts Bush started, why in the world does the author believe he’d get involved in another Middle Eastern Conflict?
The use of exclamation points became oppressive. I understand these are teenagers dealing with a host of feelings and experiences they’ve shared, but I can’t believe they’d constantly be yelling at each other. Sometimes, yes. Others, no. There are also some formatting issues and a sprinkling of missing or misspelled words.
I did enjoy the ending as all the loose strings were finally tied together, but not enough to read the second one.
Three star work.
August 19, 2014
I received this book directly from the author in return of an honest review.
This book is a great magnifying glass on what children in war witness and go through. When one of them loses a family member and shed a tear, I also shed a tear. This is great to raise awareness on what kids are going through in countries with wars. A lot of people would not consider researching what injustice is happening outside their own country
I loved how the author has showed how children, no matter what they go through, try to be happy even if it is after a great loss, even if it lasts only for a few moments.
The book is told from different point of views and sometimes we get an old memory of one of those characters;however, Jada dominates the story , as in, it basically revolves around her.
I believe that this is a work of fiction, as only few would go and do all of these things. I think that there should be at least on group of people who are willing to find the bad guy. Perhaps the freedom fighters could be this group, but I was looking for people who were not seeking a safe place. Someone to fight the bad guy, even if they are few, or if they end up dead .
The start of the story was the strongest part in this book. In my opinion, it was more important to show the world the concepts of tragic loss.
I am not sure if the book has a sequel, but it would be great if it did. The ending was very interesting and I would be looking forward to read it if it did.
The profit of this book will go to helping kids in Syria, so buy purchasing this book, you enjoy a great read and support a huge cause.
This book is a great magnifying glass on what children in war witness and go through. When one of them loses a family member and shed a tear, I also shed a tear. This is great to raise awareness on what kids are going through in countries with wars. A lot of people would not consider researching what injustice is happening outside their own country
I loved how the author has showed how children, no matter what they go through, try to be happy even if it is after a great loss, even if it lasts only for a few moments.
The book is told from different point of views and sometimes we get an old memory of one of those characters;however, Jada dominates the story , as in, it basically revolves around her.
I believe that this is a work of fiction, as only few would go and do all of these things. I think that there should be at least on group of people who are willing to find the bad guy. Perhaps the freedom fighters could be this group, but I was looking for people who were not seeking a safe place. Someone to fight the bad guy, even if they are few, or if they end up dead .
The start of the story was the strongest part in this book. In my opinion, it was more important to show the world the concepts of tragic loss.
I am not sure if the book has a sequel, but it would be great if it did. The ending was very interesting and I would be looking forward to read it if it did.
The profit of this book will go to helping kids in Syria, so buy purchasing this book, you enjoy a great read and support a huge cause.
February 7, 2016
Another heart rending war story, this one is told from the PoV of few children Jada, Zak and Haytham. These and a few other kids are trying to reach a refugee camp, on their way they suffer and have seen so much that they are already growing up for their age, trying to learn how to kill, be smarter and calm. Not to fall for anyone, hide from the soldiers.
The hospitals and schools are being bombed, this is one of those stories that makes you shiver to just hear the plight kids and what they have to do in order keep themselves safe. The connections in story come totally as a surprise, I didn't see them coming.
Overall, this is a nice story but not for the light hearted, there is death and violence.
I thank the author/narrator/publisher for providing me a copy for review.
The hospitals and schools are being bombed, this is one of those stories that makes you shiver to just hear the plight kids and what they have to do in order keep themselves safe. The connections in story come totally as a surprise, I didn't see them coming.
Overall, this is a nice story but not for the light hearted, there is death and violence.
I thank the author/narrator/publisher for providing me a copy for review.
January 2, 2015
I absolutely loved this book!! It's a book that really hits home (especially with a look on the current events in the world). You see through the eyes of several people how it, most likely, really goes in Syria. It's a book that's not afraid to bring it like it is (including swearing, which I actually appreciate.. cause when you're upset, you swear and do not say whoops or oh no.) therefore the emotions are very real for the reader as well. A very touching book. Everyone should read this to understand what a war can do to a child. As she says in the book: "My childhood was stolen, and they took it."
October 13, 2015
This a must read for everyone It was scary book to know this is happening now. I never stop to think of all those children lost and alone in this way. They were faceless unknown people now I feel I know them it means so much to me what happens to these children. I feel like I know some of these kids alone in those tents. This book was a non-stop read. Kept me up until the page and I wanted more. My heart broke at one point I cried throughout rest of book. A book everyone should have to read I will follow this athor.
January 3, 2015
Wow! Very powerful book. Written fantastically. The situations are described so realistically that you can see it all in your head and unfortunately relate to the recent news footage on TV, making it all seem so much more real. A fantastic first book and I am eagerly awaiting more books to
Follow.
Follow.
October 8, 2015
I loved this book, although it is truly disturbing. It is a look into the world of children in Syria. It saddened me, angered me, and frustrated me that children and entire families there are being destroyed. A very timely read.
Read
December 24, 2015great book!
February 16, 2015
Weak writing hinders well-conceived story
War Kids starts with a BANG! in the middle of the action. Jada, a fourteen year-old girl wakes up to witness a horrific scene – the hospital she is recovering in has been bombed. You never know how she got there or what her injuries are, but she’s fit enough to escape the ruins.
Zak is at school when the soldiers arrive and begin indiscriminately killing everyone. He manages to escape as well.
So starts the individual journey’s of Jada and Zak through war torn modern day Syria to try to reunite with their families.
Author, HK Lawson has picked a contemporary theme and packaged it with an excellent cover, but unfortunately her writing is not up to the task.
Very early on the author’s inexperience becomes apparent. She uses capital letters like BANG to indicate gunshots, THUD, THUD, THUD, is the sound of heavy boots. Rather than find appropriate descriptive words and images she resorts to capitalization and punctuation (there are 463 exclamation marks in the book) including the combination ?! (used 21 times) which is supposed to indicate what I’m not sure, questioning shock perhaps?
Gratuitous profanity is also used for emphasis, though oddly it’s mostly in the character’s thoughts and not in their dialogue where it might have been put to good use.
Clichés abound, diction is limited with the use of “horror, horrific, horrible”, and “hell” repeated countless times as is “God” (used 55 times).
The narrative is littered with horrific events and human tragedies but because the characterization is so shallow and one-dimensional I never got to know anyone as a real person and so the impact on this reader was minimal. Except for their gender the children could be interchangeable, they are all good, virtuous and brave; the soldiers are all bad, evil and cowards.
The author gets caught up describing the details of the action, much of which would be better left to the reader’s imagination, but comes up short on giving the character’s reaction to events which would help develop their personalities and create reader empathy.
Another example of the lack of craft is displayed when the author launches into a couple of pages of back story about how Jada’s father taught her to use a gun just as she’s about to blow the brains out of a bad, evil, cowardice man intent on raping her.
Half way through the novel it reverts to a YA romance, but here again the lack of depth in the characters and their reaction to these new feelings left this reader unsatisfied.
The plot is a bit convoluted and at one point flashes back 19 years and introduces and entirely new line that really stretched this reader’s suspension of disbelief. The story would have perhaps been better served if it would have stayed focused on the two original protagonists and delivered from just two points of view instead of six.
Nitpicking issues include a BBC journalist allowing an interviewee to editorialize to an international audience – would never happen, I know, I’m a journalist.
As far as I can discern, the UN has had a limited presence in Syria in the role of observers. Whenever the heavy hitting begins they pull out, so it’s not likely they would be rescuing any civilians from a bombed hospital as the reader is lead to believe near the beginning of this story.
And what about religion? Only ten percent of Syria’s population is Christian, yet all the children in this novel pray to God not Allah.
The lack of political context could be justified by the fact the characters are children, however, the kids I know, at the very minimum, reflect the parent’s prejudices. I think the lack of understanding of the situation may have more to do with the absence of research into the issue. Consider this paragraph by the character Faith, an international doctor in the war zone, delivered to a BBC television reporter.
“Suffering has gone beyond all boundaries. There is no safe place left. Syria has become a battlefield. Every aspect of human rights, freedom, and citizenship are lost from view, and no one cares. Entire villages have been cleared off the map. Innocent children are being massacred, and a whole generation is being erased. For what? I pray every single moment that the government and all political parties around the world will engage with the rebels. The rebels are capable of engaging in dialogue, because if they do not, the blood of the innocent is on their hands. All of their hands.”
For what?
Well, there’s obviously some motivation though you may not agree with it. Deep background and an understanding of the characters’ situation, inserted subtly, can give the story more authenticity.
Engage with the rebels? What exactly does Faith mean when she says this? Does she mean negotiate with the rebels for a truce? Is this an example of using the wrong word?
The rebels are capable of engaging in dialogue because if they…?
Who are they and what do they want to engage about? Again, should this read “negotiate”?
Blood of the innocent is on their hands …?
Whose hands - the rebels, the government (and which government is that), political parties around the world, everyone’s?
This story has potential and is well conceived. All it needs is for the author to log her 10,000 hours before writing it.
I received this book free from the author in a giveaway sponsored by BookLikes.
War Kids starts with a BANG! in the middle of the action. Jada, a fourteen year-old girl wakes up to witness a horrific scene – the hospital she is recovering in has been bombed. You never know how she got there or what her injuries are, but she’s fit enough to escape the ruins.
Zak is at school when the soldiers arrive and begin indiscriminately killing everyone. He manages to escape as well.
So starts the individual journey’s of Jada and Zak through war torn modern day Syria to try to reunite with their families.
Author, HK Lawson has picked a contemporary theme and packaged it with an excellent cover, but unfortunately her writing is not up to the task.
Very early on the author’s inexperience becomes apparent. She uses capital letters like BANG to indicate gunshots, THUD, THUD, THUD, is the sound of heavy boots. Rather than find appropriate descriptive words and images she resorts to capitalization and punctuation (there are 463 exclamation marks in the book) including the combination ?! (used 21 times) which is supposed to indicate what I’m not sure, questioning shock perhaps?
Gratuitous profanity is also used for emphasis, though oddly it’s mostly in the character’s thoughts and not in their dialogue where it might have been put to good use.
Clichés abound, diction is limited with the use of “horror, horrific, horrible”, and “hell” repeated countless times as is “God” (used 55 times).
The narrative is littered with horrific events and human tragedies but because the characterization is so shallow and one-dimensional I never got to know anyone as a real person and so the impact on this reader was minimal. Except for their gender the children could be interchangeable, they are all good, virtuous and brave; the soldiers are all bad, evil and cowards.
The author gets caught up describing the details of the action, much of which would be better left to the reader’s imagination, but comes up short on giving the character’s reaction to events which would help develop their personalities and create reader empathy.
Another example of the lack of craft is displayed when the author launches into a couple of pages of back story about how Jada’s father taught her to use a gun just as she’s about to blow the brains out of a bad, evil, cowardice man intent on raping her.
Half way through the novel it reverts to a YA romance, but here again the lack of depth in the characters and their reaction to these new feelings left this reader unsatisfied.
The plot is a bit convoluted and at one point flashes back 19 years and introduces and entirely new line that really stretched this reader’s suspension of disbelief. The story would have perhaps been better served if it would have stayed focused on the two original protagonists and delivered from just two points of view instead of six.
Nitpicking issues include a BBC journalist allowing an interviewee to editorialize to an international audience – would never happen, I know, I’m a journalist.
As far as I can discern, the UN has had a limited presence in Syria in the role of observers. Whenever the heavy hitting begins they pull out, so it’s not likely they would be rescuing any civilians from a bombed hospital as the reader is lead to believe near the beginning of this story.
And what about religion? Only ten percent of Syria’s population is Christian, yet all the children in this novel pray to God not Allah.
The lack of political context could be justified by the fact the characters are children, however, the kids I know, at the very minimum, reflect the parent’s prejudices. I think the lack of understanding of the situation may have more to do with the absence of research into the issue. Consider this paragraph by the character Faith, an international doctor in the war zone, delivered to a BBC television reporter.
“Suffering has gone beyond all boundaries. There is no safe place left. Syria has become a battlefield. Every aspect of human rights, freedom, and citizenship are lost from view, and no one cares. Entire villages have been cleared off the map. Innocent children are being massacred, and a whole generation is being erased. For what? I pray every single moment that the government and all political parties around the world will engage with the rebels. The rebels are capable of engaging in dialogue, because if they do not, the blood of the innocent is on their hands. All of their hands.”
For what?
Well, there’s obviously some motivation though you may not agree with it. Deep background and an understanding of the characters’ situation, inserted subtly, can give the story more authenticity.
Engage with the rebels? What exactly does Faith mean when she says this? Does she mean negotiate with the rebels for a truce? Is this an example of using the wrong word?
The rebels are capable of engaging in dialogue because if they…?
Who are they and what do they want to engage about? Again, should this read “negotiate”?
Blood of the innocent is on their hands …?
Whose hands - the rebels, the government (and which government is that), political parties around the world, everyone’s?
This story has potential and is well conceived. All it needs is for the author to log her 10,000 hours before writing it.
I received this book free from the author in a giveaway sponsored by BookLikes.
October 7, 2014
What an intense and thought-provoking read. I knew this was going to probably be sad, traumatic and probably horrifying - with a title like War Kids I don’t think I would have expected anything less. But I was surprised by how drawn into this world I became - how much this would affect me. War Kids deals with the civil war in Syria, told primarily through the eyes of children. Children trying to survive a world that has exploded in front of their eyes taking everything they have known and almost everyone they have - leaving them in a terrifying struggle to survive. The book starts off at a run and does not let up - dragging us (the reader) by an emotional leash that is almost unbearable at times. I love the way in which the book is told through the different POVS. Each POV is done wonderfully, adding to the story - pushing it forward, giving us a little more of this world; rather than rehashing what we might already know it fills in the blanks for the pieces we might be missing. It is so amazing seeing this world through these children’s eyes. You find yourself getting swept up in their thoughts and feelings - so much so that it was a little disconcerting when we would hear things from one of the adults POVS which I think is an important part of this. So often we hear similar stories like this told through the eyes of an adult or from an adult looking at their children. It is so powerful that we see the actual children/teenagers - this is their world, a world that the adults have left mercilessly left them and it is important to hear about it from them. And while what Gerald’s storyline is important and intriguing - I love that this first book belongs primarily to the children.
All of the children here are amazing . In particular Zak and Jada are such strong characters. I found myself wanting to know more about them before the war, and while we get little glimpses into Jada’s early life I think it would have been nice to see more of Zak. I loved the way in which this whole book shows the….I guess the only way to say it would be entirety of its characters. It does not sugar coat their flaws. Yes they are amazingly brave and courageous teens/kids. But they are still children. They are afraid even while they are brave. They make amazing choices but they also let themselves be fooled - in major ways that some readers might say are improbable but I would argue in ways that just highlight their need to believe, to hope. They are filled with love and an urge to protect. But they also feel hate and want revenge. This is important because it also gives a chance to see the ways that they are trying to keep that hatred from becoming like those who are destroying their lives. Two of the most emotionally exhausting moments for me where near the end when in two different examples the children fight back and you see the rage they feel. And it hurts…not just because of the obvious reasons but because throughout much of the book you see them struggling for some sense of normalcy - even when they are heading to Jordan to the refugee camps, you see all of these moments where they try to make their lives as much like before as possible. And in those moments where they fight back you know that they have been changed irrevocably.
Now this is not to say that there are not some problems with the book. Early on there were many instances where the author would commit on something about to happen rather than just letting it unfold. For instance the author would mention how Jada’s life was about to change forever right before something would happen rather than just letting us see the event itself. Also for those of us who might not know as much about all of the things that are happening in Syria (such as myself) this does not give us much of a background to the conflict. But then again I don’t think that was the goal of the book. Also the side story of the spies is intriguing but not really flushed out. Again though as I mentioned before that could be because it is geared more towards the children involved - hopefully in the next book more of our questions will be answered. My biggest complaint is that the ending just kind of…happens. I mean there are some big things that happen at the end including a death I did not see coming and without giving too much away it seems like everything is just wrapped up a little too quickly. But I guess that just makes me more anxious for the next book. All in all though I think that was simply wonderful and I am excited to see what next Lawson will bring to the literary world.
All of the children here are amazing . In particular Zak and Jada are such strong characters. I found myself wanting to know more about them before the war, and while we get little glimpses into Jada’s early life I think it would have been nice to see more of Zak. I loved the way in which this whole book shows the….I guess the only way to say it would be entirety of its characters. It does not sugar coat their flaws. Yes they are amazingly brave and courageous teens/kids. But they are still children. They are afraid even while they are brave. They make amazing choices but they also let themselves be fooled - in major ways that some readers might say are improbable but I would argue in ways that just highlight their need to believe, to hope. They are filled with love and an urge to protect. But they also feel hate and want revenge. This is important because it also gives a chance to see the ways that they are trying to keep that hatred from becoming like those who are destroying their lives. Two of the most emotionally exhausting moments for me where near the end when in two different examples the children fight back and you see the rage they feel. And it hurts…not just because of the obvious reasons but because throughout much of the book you see them struggling for some sense of normalcy - even when they are heading to Jordan to the refugee camps, you see all of these moments where they try to make their lives as much like before as possible. And in those moments where they fight back you know that they have been changed irrevocably.
Now this is not to say that there are not some problems with the book. Early on there were many instances where the author would commit on something about to happen rather than just letting it unfold. For instance the author would mention how Jada’s life was about to change forever right before something would happen rather than just letting us see the event itself. Also for those of us who might not know as much about all of the things that are happening in Syria (such as myself) this does not give us much of a background to the conflict. But then again I don’t think that was the goal of the book. Also the side story of the spies is intriguing but not really flushed out. Again though as I mentioned before that could be because it is geared more towards the children involved - hopefully in the next book more of our questions will be answered. My biggest complaint is that the ending just kind of…happens. I mean there are some big things that happen at the end including a death I did not see coming and without giving too much away it seems like everything is just wrapped up a little too quickly. But I guess that just makes me more anxious for the next book. All in all though I think that was simply wonderful and I am excited to see what next Lawson will bring to the literary world.
December 13, 2014
Originally posted on http://bibliophilemystery.blogspot.ro...
War Kids was recommended to me by a friend and, when I realized it was about a war, I immediately rushed to read it because I like this kind of stories. What I didn’t know was the fact that the story was about the Syrian War.
Reading the first chapters, I was surprised to discover that the war ended just about two years ago. So, I searched the internet for details and I was shocked to see that there were killed over 90.000 who didn’t do anything except being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
H.J Lawson created a book where we see the world through some teenagers’ eyes while we find out what their story is.
Jada, a fourteen-year-old girl had to give up on school, and since then she was taught how to survive by her parents. One day, she arrives at home only to find out her mother and little brother had been killed and her father had been kidnapped by the soldiers.
Sixteen-year-old Zak’s story isn’t any different.
He and his little sister, Tilly, go to search for their father along with other children just like them. One night he meets Jada. She joins them in their long journey to find the only relatives they’re hoping to be still alive.
Writing:
Well, I didn’t like so much the author’s style. I think that she could have done a better job, because the story was both interesting and captivating but she rushed it.
I also didn’t like the way the characters dealt with the situations they found themselves in, but I liked how they bonded and stayed together despite the hard circumstances.
It’s really sad these things still happen nowadays.The wars and people killing other people only for money and power.
The ending was unexpected and I was a little disappointed when I discovered that there is a cliffhanger, so you have to read the second book, too, if you want to find out how the story ends.
It was interesting to learn more about others’ lives and I’m glad I gave a chance to War Kids. To me, it was a true lesson about survival and finding love in the little things that taught me this: where there’s a will, there’s a way.
3.5 stars
War Kids was recommended to me by a friend and, when I realized it was about a war, I immediately rushed to read it because I like this kind of stories. What I didn’t know was the fact that the story was about the Syrian War.
Reading the first chapters, I was surprised to discover that the war ended just about two years ago. So, I searched the internet for details and I was shocked to see that there were killed over 90.000 who didn’t do anything except being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
H.J Lawson created a book where we see the world through some teenagers’ eyes while we find out what their story is.
Jada, a fourteen-year-old girl had to give up on school, and since then she was taught how to survive by her parents. One day, she arrives at home only to find out her mother and little brother had been killed and her father had been kidnapped by the soldiers.
Sixteen-year-old Zak’s story isn’t any different.
He and his little sister, Tilly, go to search for their father along with other children just like them. One night he meets Jada. She joins them in their long journey to find the only relatives they’re hoping to be still alive.
Writing:
Well, I didn’t like so much the author’s style. I think that she could have done a better job, because the story was both interesting and captivating but she rushed it.
I also didn’t like the way the characters dealt with the situations they found themselves in, but I liked how they bonded and stayed together despite the hard circumstances.
It’s really sad these things still happen nowadays.The wars and people killing other people only for money and power.
The ending was unexpected and I was a little disappointed when I discovered that there is a cliffhanger, so you have to read the second book, too, if you want to find out how the story ends.
It was interesting to learn more about others’ lives and I’m glad I gave a chance to War Kids. To me, it was a true lesson about survival and finding love in the little things that taught me this: where there’s a will, there’s a way.
3.5 stars
January 7, 2015
*I received the ebook copy from the author's giveaway but this has not affected my review and rating in any way.
I didn't read the synopsis nor other reviews before started reading this, so I didn't have any expectations. And I always prefer that way because I might just read some spoilers.
This is not what I normally read but I'm glad the author gave a free copy because this was such a great timely read. We see news updates about wars on televisions, we feel sad for those victims but this book
is an eye-opener about wars and the victims. I've witnessed through this book what it must feel to be caught up in the middle of a war. The killing of innocent children, the bombings
, the piles of dead bodies everywhere, those kidnapped and missing family members, the terror and at the same time the rage to take revenge for the death of loved ones and the innocence taken away from the children, the hope to be reunited with the remaining family members, these all heartbreaking scenes made me literally cry. This was such an emotional, thought provoking and action-packed read with a dash of teen romance.
I like all the F3 characters, despite of what's happened they still have the hope and courage to fight.
This book will make you realize the small things you have in your life that should be appreciated because while you're yelling at your parents for not getting what you want, other children in a country with ongoing war is willing to do anything just to be with their parents again.
There was an error in the POV shifting of Jada and the man who tried to harm her in their house but I read the Smashword edition so I'm not sure if it's been re-edited in other editions. Other than that, I didn't have any problem with the different POVs since I didn't find it hard to follow.
Overall, I love this book! Will definitely recommend it to anyone who wants a good read. I cannot wait to read the next book! I wanted to know what's happened to Haytham, Zak, Ali and the other F3 members. This book left questions that the sequel might have the answers. Can't wait for more action-packed scenes.
I didn't read the synopsis nor other reviews before started reading this, so I didn't have any expectations. And I always prefer that way because I might just read some spoilers.
This is not what I normally read but I'm glad the author gave a free copy because this was such a great timely read. We see news updates about wars on televisions, we feel sad for those victims but this book
is an eye-opener about wars and the victims. I've witnessed through this book what it must feel to be caught up in the middle of a war. The killing of innocent children, the bombings
, the piles of dead bodies everywhere, those kidnapped and missing family members, the terror and at the same time the rage to take revenge for the death of loved ones and the innocence taken away from the children, the hope to be reunited with the remaining family members, these all heartbreaking scenes made me literally cry. This was such an emotional, thought provoking and action-packed read with a dash of teen romance.
I like all the F3 characters, despite of what's happened they still have the hope and courage to fight.
This book will make you realize the small things you have in your life that should be appreciated because while you're yelling at your parents for not getting what you want, other children in a country with ongoing war is willing to do anything just to be with their parents again.
There was an error in the POV shifting of Jada and the man who tried to harm her in their house but I read the Smashword edition so I'm not sure if it's been re-edited in other editions. Other than that, I didn't have any problem with the different POVs since I didn't find it hard to follow.
Overall, I love this book! Will definitely recommend it to anyone who wants a good read. I cannot wait to read the next book! I wanted to know what's happened to Haytham, Zak, Ali and the other F3 members. This book left questions that the sequel might have the answers. Can't wait for more action-packed scenes.
December 13, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story goes into the lives of the children who are in the middle of the Syrian war. It mostly follows Jada and Zak, both who had fathers taken and mothers were in the war. They long to find safety and shelter in the midst of devastation, while also having a fire in them to save their fathers.
The story was good. This was a huge challenge for the author to take on, with there really being many kids in Syria who are facing death. I feel the author did it righteously and well done. However, the world development could have been better, with more explaining of why things were happening.
The characters were all likable. The author did a great job developing them, as well as being able to switch POV frequently. Not many authors can do that and I'm impressed.
While I liked all the characters, and felt the author did a great job with both having a lot of characters, and switching POV, I didn't quite buy the love story. I think this book would've been better without it. It felt forced and like the author felt like she had to include a love story.
Also, I'm not sure why Jada was so naive after everything and she gets irritated at Zac for being suspicious. That annoyed me and it didn't really make me like her more. However, since I'm not in a situation like that, it might be easy to not question anything that may seem good.
Overall it was a good read. I'm thankful to the author for giving me a copy!
This story goes into the lives of the children who are in the middle of the Syrian war. It mostly follows Jada and Zak, both who had fathers taken and mothers were in the war. They long to find safety and shelter in the midst of devastation, while also having a fire in them to save their fathers.
The story was good. This was a huge challenge for the author to take on, with there really being many kids in Syria who are facing death. I feel the author did it righteously and well done. However, the world development could have been better, with more explaining of why things were happening.
The characters were all likable. The author did a great job developing them, as well as being able to switch POV frequently. Not many authors can do that and I'm impressed.
While I liked all the characters, and felt the author did a great job with both having a lot of characters, and switching POV, I didn't quite buy the love story. I think this book would've been better without it. It felt forced and like the author felt like she had to include a love story.
Also, I'm not sure why Jada was so naive after everything and she gets irritated at Zac for being suspicious. That annoyed me and it didn't really make me like her more. However, since I'm not in a situation like that, it might be easy to not question anything that may seem good.
Overall it was a good read. I'm thankful to the author for giving me a copy!
January 15, 2015
War Kids, another masterpiece from H.J. Lawson!
War Kids tells how children see war and how it strongly affects them, especially mentally. This book is well-written even though there are more than three characters POV. Yeah, at the beginning it was a little bit hard for me to keep up with the story as there were so many characters. I reached to Chapter 6 and the name ‘Faith’ was mentioned and I was like, “Who is Faith?”. But it was getting easier for the next chapter. Love it!
The author described things cleverly I could felt what Jada, Zak, Haytham, and other children felt. They were so strong. Really, we should be grateful now that we live in a peace and safe land. We have no worry when we sleep. From this story, we know that War is giving no benefits at all!
Oh, that Gerard-Mia-Leon scandal was interesting too! It’s just a suggestion to the author that I think it would be better if there were more Syrian things in the story (except from the character’s names). I’d love to know more Syrian food, their cultures, famous places, etc.
War Kids is a very recommended book! I love it! I am very curious for Jada’s next adventure, looking for her father. Fortunately, I’ve bought the next book, Survive The Day! Yeay! :D
War Kids tells how children see war and how it strongly affects them, especially mentally. This book is well-written even though there are more than three characters POV. Yeah, at the beginning it was a little bit hard for me to keep up with the story as there were so many characters. I reached to Chapter 6 and the name ‘Faith’ was mentioned and I was like, “Who is Faith?”. But it was getting easier for the next chapter. Love it!
The author described things cleverly I could felt what Jada, Zak, Haytham, and other children felt. They were so strong. Really, we should be grateful now that we live in a peace and safe land. We have no worry when we sleep. From this story, we know that War is giving no benefits at all!
Oh, that Gerard-Mia-Leon scandal was interesting too! It’s just a suggestion to the author that I think it would be better if there were more Syrian things in the story (except from the character’s names). I’d love to know more Syrian food, their cultures, famous places, etc.
War Kids is a very recommended book! I love it! I am very curious for Jada’s next adventure, looking for her father. Fortunately, I’ve bought the next book, Survive The Day! Yeay! :D
March 6, 2015
This is a story which pulls and twists at the gut, almost hitting a bit too close to home. The two main characters, Jada and Zak, are caught in a cruel war, and they do whatever they can to save their families and themselves.
The scenes are vivid and violent, making the heart-strings pull and the shivers run up and down the spine. The author does a terrific job in playing the reader's emotions to the point, where at least, I wondered at times if I could really read more.
The dialogue is well done and the characters sympathetic. I felt that the characters acted a bit young at times and didn't seem to always understand the background to their situation, something which fails to show the reality of how fast kids in these situations really mature. But it was still easy to follow both of the main characters and feel for them as they tried their best to get through.
I personally wished there was a little more background, but the action and emotion-packed situations make up for this completely. There are several flashbacks which I found a little jarring and the narration feels a bit uneven at times, but this too doesn't irritate too much or pull away from the main focus of the story.
Summed up, this is a story which hits hard. It does a fantastic job on bringing the cruelty of war to life and will leave a mark on anyone who reads it.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
The scenes are vivid and violent, making the heart-strings pull and the shivers run up and down the spine. The author does a terrific job in playing the reader's emotions to the point, where at least, I wondered at times if I could really read more.
The dialogue is well done and the characters sympathetic. I felt that the characters acted a bit young at times and didn't seem to always understand the background to their situation, something which fails to show the reality of how fast kids in these situations really mature. But it was still easy to follow both of the main characters and feel for them as they tried their best to get through.
I personally wished there was a little more background, but the action and emotion-packed situations make up for this completely. There are several flashbacks which I found a little jarring and the narration feels a bit uneven at times, but this too doesn't irritate too much or pull away from the main focus of the story.
Summed up, this is a story which hits hard. It does a fantastic job on bringing the cruelty of war to life and will leave a mark on anyone who reads it.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2014
War Kids by H.J. Lawson
I received this book directly from the author in return for an honest review.
PLOT
This is a compelling tale of conflict, murder, chaos, and the survival of a group of courageous children who are trapped in the civil war in Syria who try to escape to Jordan. The book depicts a number of horrifying realities of events that take the reader on an unpredictable journey through its young characters that are literally forced to leave their childhood and turn in to soldiers themselves, however the children are still naive and unaware of the political and religious ramifications of their worlds that surrounds them.
Dialogue
There are several shifts in the narrative voice from different character viewpoints which adds to the strength of the dialogue. The dialogue itself was easy to follow and understandable which leaves me to conclude this is written by a very competent author.
Writing
H.J.Lawson successfully manages to combine a mixture of emotions such as anger, pity and an overwhelming sense of loss for the innocent victims of stolen youth.
This is a taunt thought provoking book that grips the reader from the very first page to the last.
I’d be interested in reading a sequel to this book and would definitely recommend it to my friends.
I received this book directly from the author in return for an honest review.
PLOT
This is a compelling tale of conflict, murder, chaos, and the survival of a group of courageous children who are trapped in the civil war in Syria who try to escape to Jordan. The book depicts a number of horrifying realities of events that take the reader on an unpredictable journey through its young characters that are literally forced to leave their childhood and turn in to soldiers themselves, however the children are still naive and unaware of the political and religious ramifications of their worlds that surrounds them.
Dialogue
There are several shifts in the narrative voice from different character viewpoints which adds to the strength of the dialogue. The dialogue itself was easy to follow and understandable which leaves me to conclude this is written by a very competent author.
Writing
H.J.Lawson successfully manages to combine a mixture of emotions such as anger, pity and an overwhelming sense of loss for the innocent victims of stolen youth.
This is a taunt thought provoking book that grips the reader from the very first page to the last.
I’d be interested in reading a sequel to this book and would definitely recommend it to my friends.
September 3, 2014
I was gifted the book.
This is the story of kids caught in the war in Syria. It is a thought provoking and terribly upsetting novel. The realities and horror of war is graphically depicted leaving the reader shocked. Amidst these atrocities against the innocent unfolds a tale of kids surviving, turning into soldiers themselves and falling in love. They witness acts of cruelty and are forced to kill.
The story is written from the viewpoint of several characters which I found in the beginning a bit confusing, but later enjoyed as this is not about one child but several and how this war affects them. The characters are believable and easy to relate to. The love story between Jada and Zak are sweet and innocent. The images and scenes are described in such a way that you feel as if you are there.
There’s a lot of twists to the plot as revealed as you go along, leaving you with a lot of questions. Especially the end left me gasping for more and made me feel like I wanted to demand answers. Hopefully there will be a second book as there is too much of the story left to be told.
I would definitely recommend this book to everyone I know as I don’t feel this book should be restricted to any genres. Everyone should read this to be aware of the consequences of war.
If I could I would give the book more than five stars.
This is the story of kids caught in the war in Syria. It is a thought provoking and terribly upsetting novel. The realities and horror of war is graphically depicted leaving the reader shocked. Amidst these atrocities against the innocent unfolds a tale of kids surviving, turning into soldiers themselves and falling in love. They witness acts of cruelty and are forced to kill.
The story is written from the viewpoint of several characters which I found in the beginning a bit confusing, but later enjoyed as this is not about one child but several and how this war affects them. The characters are believable and easy to relate to. The love story between Jada and Zak are sweet and innocent. The images and scenes are described in such a way that you feel as if you are there.
There’s a lot of twists to the plot as revealed as you go along, leaving you with a lot of questions. Especially the end left me gasping for more and made me feel like I wanted to demand answers. Hopefully there will be a second book as there is too much of the story left to be told.
I would definitely recommend this book to everyone I know as I don’t feel this book should be restricted to any genres. Everyone should read this to be aware of the consequences of war.
If I could I would give the book more than five stars.
September 23, 2015
HJ Lawson shows us the world of war through children's eyes in a epic way. Following the stories of the lives and trials of young ones as they try and navigate through something they don't understand is never easy to read. They know they must survive while their known world crashes around them and they witness countless horrors can be hard to take in and even hard to see. HJ Lawson does a fine job creating that image in our minds as we read. Taking a very current event like the Syrian war was a bold move but a needed one as so many want to believe "it's not our war" but what I believe Lawson was trying to convey is that, that doesn't matter, they are human too and all human lives matter.
Michelle Michaels and RJ Walker narrate this novel and do a fine job at that. Michelle carries a lot of energy and emotion throughout all her characters which captures the reader. Her pacing can be slow at times but overall it was truly capturing. Walker has a smooth voice that was easy to listen to and has a true talent for voicing different ages and genders. I was quite impressed with both of them overall.
I would recommend this book to all.
This audiobook was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
Michelle Michaels and RJ Walker narrate this novel and do a fine job at that. Michelle carries a lot of energy and emotion throughout all her characters which captures the reader. Her pacing can be slow at times but overall it was truly capturing. Walker has a smooth voice that was easy to listen to and has a true talent for voicing different ages and genders. I was quite impressed with both of them overall.
I would recommend this book to all.
This audiobook was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2015
Actual Review:
I really wish I could say I liked this book, but I really didn't. Here is why...
1. There were so many editing errors. I just could not get over them.
2. I did not enjoy the writing style. I don't want to say it was necessarily bad, but it just wasn't for me. I did not pull me in. It did not make me like the characters. The characters felt like just that- characters. They did not feel real.
3. The overall story could have been good, but how it was done just felt really back and forth and had a lot of stuff I thought should have been done differently.
Before Reading: After the dozens of books I entered to receive, I finally won my first Goodreads First Reads book!
I am so excited that I won =) The package arrived today, and since I'm away at school, my mom called me and asked what I had ordered and I said I had no idea. When she said it was a couple of books I realized I must have won a giveaway without realizing it.
I will not be able to read the book until I get the chance to pick it up from home- So no earlier then Thanksgiving, but probably not until winter break because after Thanksgiving is Finals Week and there can be no distractions for that.
I really wish I could say I liked this book, but I really didn't. Here is why...
1. There were so many editing errors. I just could not get over them.
2. I did not enjoy the writing style. I don't want to say it was necessarily bad, but it just wasn't for me. I did not pull me in. It did not make me like the characters. The characters felt like just that- characters. They did not feel real.
3. The overall story could have been good, but how it was done just felt really back and forth and had a lot of stuff I thought should have been done differently.
Before Reading: After the dozens of books I entered to receive, I finally won my first Goodreads First Reads book!
I am so excited that I won =) The package arrived today, and since I'm away at school, my mom called me and asked what I had ordered and I said I had no idea. When she said it was a couple of books I realized I must have won a giveaway without realizing it.
I will not be able to read the book until I get the chance to pick it up from home- So no earlier then Thanksgiving, but probably not until winter break because after Thanksgiving is Finals Week and there can be no distractions for that.
October 6, 2014
It took me a long time to figure out what I wanted to write in my review. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, so I will hold up my end of the bargain and try to be as fair as possible.
War Kids is the story of a few teenagers and their experiences in Syria during the civil war. It's mostly centred around 14 year old Jada, but it also features the points of view of several
Other people. Too many people.
This book jumps between characters at the oddest times, I found it hard to keep track of who was speaking at first, until I got a handle on each individual story. It would have been so much better as a collection of short stories that overlap than as a novel.
This book also would have benefitted from a decent editor. I had started out by highlighting and counting spelling, grammatical and punctuation errors, but I got bored and gave up. (Honestly I would have given up on the whole book, if I hadn't agreed to this review.)
All in all, I didn't enjoy this book at all. It was boring, poorly put together and a little confusing.
I give it 1.5 stars.
War Kids is the story of a few teenagers and their experiences in Syria during the civil war. It's mostly centred around 14 year old Jada, but it also features the points of view of several
Other people. Too many people.
This book jumps between characters at the oddest times, I found it hard to keep track of who was speaking at first, until I got a handle on each individual story. It would have been so much better as a collection of short stories that overlap than as a novel.
This book also would have benefitted from a decent editor. I had started out by highlighting and counting spelling, grammatical and punctuation errors, but I got bored and gave up. (Honestly I would have given up on the whole book, if I hadn't agreed to this review.)
All in all, I didn't enjoy this book at all. It was boring, poorly put together and a little confusing.
I give it 1.5 stars.
October 6, 2014
I received this book free in order to complete a R&R; however, that in no way will impact my review.
To be honest, I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this story, and with the ever increasing number of title on my to read list, I wasn't sure I wanted to offer this one my time. I am a sucker for post apocalyptic stories, and this one definitely took me for a ride through a modern day apocalyptic scenario that hit a little too close to home. It was written primarily about one character, but often the narrative shifts characters allowing you to hear the story though a bunch of intertwined voices as their own tales overlap on unique ways. The story is set in modern day Syria amidst civil war that turns children to soldiers overnight. We follow their desperate escape toward Jordan for refuge from the violence that surrounds them along with all the twists and turns of their journey. I honestly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good read,
To be honest, I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this story, and with the ever increasing number of title on my to read list, I wasn't sure I wanted to offer this one my time. I am a sucker for post apocalyptic stories, and this one definitely took me for a ride through a modern day apocalyptic scenario that hit a little too close to home. It was written primarily about one character, but often the narrative shifts characters allowing you to hear the story though a bunch of intertwined voices as their own tales overlap on unique ways. The story is set in modern day Syria amidst civil war that turns children to soldiers overnight. We follow their desperate escape toward Jordan for refuge from the violence that surrounds them along with all the twists and turns of their journey. I honestly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good read,
August 28, 2014
Just completed the book War Kids....Wow I got hooked and was totally moved by the story of these young kids trying their best to survive and protect each other during the war in Syria. The book will have you feeling a mixture of emotions from feeling anger that young children have seen such horror to relief that they are resourceful but I also felt pity that they had to grow up so quick and that no matter what happens they have had their childhood stolen from them.
The twist and turns of the book have kept me wanting to know more even if at some points having tears rolling down my face.
As the story continues the love between Zak and Jada strengthens and they become stronger and more in love, it's a strange but comforting feeling to have something good come out of so much destruction.
Please hurry and write the sequel is all I can say as I need to now know what happens next!!!!!!!
The twist and turns of the book have kept me wanting to know more even if at some points having tears rolling down my face.
As the story continues the love between Zak and Jada strengthens and they become stronger and more in love, it's a strange but comforting feeling to have something good come out of so much destruction.
Please hurry and write the sequel is all I can say as I need to now know what happens next!!!!!!!
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