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The Green Ember #3
Ember Rising
A harrowing adventure inside enemy territory. Heather and Picket are plunged into the darkness of Morbin’s shadow, fighting to bear the flame of the cause and light the way for rabbitkind’s upright insurrection.
Hope for a Healing
Work for the Mending
Fight for the Rising
Hope for a Healing
Work for the Mending
Fight for the Rising
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published March 1, 2018
890 people are currently reading
2426 people want to read
About the author
S.D. Smith
17 books2,004 followersS. D. Smith is the author of The Green Ember Series, a million+ selling adventure saga featuring heroic #RabbitsWithSwords. The Green Ember spent time as the number one bestselling audiobook in the world on Audible. He is also the author of the madcap Mooses with Bazookas: And Other Stories Children Should Never Read as well as the touching throwback adventure, The Found Boys. Finally, he has co-authored two fantasy adventure novels with his son (J. C. Smith), Jack Zulu and the Waylander’s Key and Jack Zulu and the Girl with Golden Wings. Smith’s stories are captivating readers across the globe who are hungry for “new stories with an old soul.”
Though packed with old school virtue and moral imagination, Smith doesn't merely create "safe" stories, but bold, daring, truthful tales of light that help shape children who become dangerous—dangerous to the darkness.
Smith is a founder and owner of Story Warren, a publishing, events, and IP development house based in rural West Virginia. Story Warren exists to serve families as “allies in imagination.”
S. D. Smith lives in Gran
Though packed with old school virtue and moral imagination, Smith doesn't merely create "safe" stories, but bold, daring, truthful tales of light that help shape children who become dangerous—dangerous to the darkness.
Smith is a founder and owner of Story Warren, a publishing, events, and IP development house based in rural West Virginia. Story Warren exists to serve families as “allies in imagination.”
S. D. Smith lives in Gran
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 610 reviews
April 20, 2018
“No book is really worth reading at the age of ten which is not equally – and often far more – worth reading at the age of fifty and beyond.” -C.S. Lewis
S.D Smith has done such a wonderful job with the Green Ember series. He truly has written a good book that is worth reading at 10 but far more worth reading as an adult. I truly enjoyed Ember Rising. So many great discussions could be had with with this book with children or adults. The themes and topics covered are so beautifully written into the narrative that it makes you stop and ponder and compare to other books I've read and to life in general. Bravo Mr. Smith!
The slave colonies really reminded me of the book 1984. He truly covers some deep issues.
I really look forward to reading more books in this series. Excellent read!
S.D Smith has done such a wonderful job with the Green Ember series. He truly has written a good book that is worth reading at 10 but far more worth reading as an adult. I truly enjoyed Ember Rising. So many great discussions could be had with with this book with children or adults. The themes and topics covered are so beautifully written into the narrative that it makes you stop and ponder and compare to other books I've read and to life in general. Bravo Mr. Smith!
The slave colonies really reminded me of the book 1984. He truly covers some deep issues.
I really look forward to reading more books in this series. Excellent read!
December 21, 2018
*zips lips against spoilers* *realizes I won’t be able to speak at all* *unzips lips*
I’ll just have to try to keep the spoilers out because OH MY WORD I went into this blind and was repeatedly gobsmacked by the twists and turns and reveals. O.o. :D
The first 60% of the book was sooo slow, but it was worth sitting through all that development and “calm before the storm” for the brilliance that was the last several chapters. :D
Picket (sassmaster extraordinaire) and Heather were both amazing in this one. Everywhere and with everyone they met they were for the cause no matter how bad things got. And my personal favorite, Jo, just gets better and better. *sighs happily*
There was some new tech in this one, wow! Lots of people working hard with small steps and small faithfulnesses. I really liked the “ordinary” characters since they remind me that things as simple as stitches and songs can be used by God.
Same of my favorite side characters in this were Wheezie, Whit, and Emerson. And Helmer was so great too. ;) And the scenes of rest and renewal were really sweet. (I need to hear those songs…) The battle scenes in this just might have the Battle of the Five Armies beat, though we’re still waiting for confirmation on that…
I was floooored by that last betrayal though. O.o.
Just a note, the preylords’ methods of rule are very remniscent of the Nazis with some things as conceptually disturbing as and giving one vile rabbit free rein to torture as he pleased. Also, some of the religious expressions in this could be slightly confusing for younger readers, and one character having “Truth” as part of his name made me slightly uncomfortable. ;)
Best quotes: “Who are you?” Daggler asked, stepping forward with an inquisitive expression. “I’m General Sunshine, and this is Private Misgivings,” Picket said, smirking.
“I believe you’re right, Picket,” he said, smiling through fresh tears. “I have only one desire in these painful days, to see my work matter for the mending. I know I help invent things that destroy, but they are aimed at the darkness. And I hope that, when they have blown a hole in that darkness, the light pours in.”
Altogether, this book is one to love. I was thrilled and satisfied. And the end has me contentedly speculating. ;)
Bear the flame. <3
I’ll just have to try to keep the spoilers out because OH MY WORD I went into this blind and was repeatedly gobsmacked by the twists and turns and reveals. O.o. :D
The first 60% of the book was sooo slow, but it was worth sitting through all that development and “calm before the storm” for the brilliance that was the last several chapters. :D
Picket (sassmaster extraordinaire) and Heather were both amazing in this one. Everywhere and with everyone they met they were for the cause no matter how bad things got. And my personal favorite, Jo, just gets better and better. *sighs happily*
There was some new tech in this one, wow! Lots of people working hard with small steps and small faithfulnesses. I really liked the “ordinary” characters since they remind me that things as simple as stitches and songs can be used by God.
Same of my favorite side characters in this were Wheezie, Whit, and Emerson. And Helmer was so great too. ;) And the scenes of rest and renewal were really sweet. (I need to hear those songs…) The battle scenes in this just might have the Battle of the Five Armies beat, though we’re still waiting for confirmation on that…
I was floooored by that last betrayal though. O.o.
Just a note, the preylords’ methods of rule are very remniscent of the Nazis with some things as conceptually disturbing as and giving one vile rabbit free rein to torture as he pleased. Also, some of the religious expressions in this could be slightly confusing for younger readers, and one character having “Truth” as part of his name made me slightly uncomfortable. ;)
Best quotes: “Who are you?” Daggler asked, stepping forward with an inquisitive expression. “I’m General Sunshine, and this is Private Misgivings,” Picket said, smirking.
“I believe you’re right, Picket,” he said, smiling through fresh tears. “I have only one desire in these painful days, to see my work matter for the mending. I know I help invent things that destroy, but they are aimed at the darkness. And I hope that, when they have blown a hole in that darkness, the light pours in.”
Altogether, this book is one to love. I was thrilled and satisfied. And the end has me contentedly speculating. ;)
Bear the flame. <3
March 22, 2018
This tale delves deeper into the questions of What price will you pay for freedom? At what point are you truly free? Do you know who you are and from where you’ve come?
SD Smith truly writes tales that are engaging for children and deeply meaningful for adults. I hope that these stories spark a flame in my children. I hope they will be encouraged to question the whys of this world. Let’s not turn a blind eye for the sake of fake comfort. Know who you are, from where you came, and what purpose you play.
SD Smith truly writes tales that are engaging for children and deeply meaningful for adults. I hope that these stories spark a flame in my children. I hope they will be encouraged to question the whys of this world. Let’s not turn a blind eye for the sake of fake comfort. Know who you are, from where you came, and what purpose you play.
October 10, 2022
4.5 Stars ✨
“There is no cost too high for doing what is right and no retribution great enough for doing what is wrong. To believe otherwise is to surrender our liberty to lies.”
Be still my bunny loving heart!
Ember Rising was intense, captivating and gut wrenching but overall, undeniably- the best of the series so far. I’m amazed at how much this particular book delves into real issues on freedom and what it really means. For a children's book- this hit different, in the best possible way. It’s got so many opportunities to bring up discussion topics with kids especially if you’re reading it with them. There are some tough things these bunnies go through, and super sad moments that pull at your heartstrings but also some victories that make you pump your fist in the air and shout YES! I’m thankful for the balance.
The thing I’m loving about The Green Ember, is it may be geared towards kids, but it’s making me think deep and explore questions within my own self as an adult. The authors writing has definitely grown with each book.
I can’t say much without spoiling anything- but it just keeps getting better and better.
I keep forgetting to mention in my reviews that there are illustrations in each book and they add so much to the story seeing the little rabbits in their battle stances with their gear and weapons. Heather and Pickets character growth is outstanding, I also liked getting to know some of the new characters that are introduced. The cliffhanger has me so anxious and excited to see how it all wraps up- all I can say is I KNEW IT! Fingers crossed!
“My place beside you, my blood for yours! Till the Green Ember rises, or the end of the world!”
“There is no cost too high for doing what is right and no retribution great enough for doing what is wrong. To believe otherwise is to surrender our liberty to lies.”
Be still my bunny loving heart!
Ember Rising was intense, captivating and gut wrenching but overall, undeniably- the best of the series so far. I’m amazed at how much this particular book delves into real issues on freedom and what it really means. For a children's book- this hit different, in the best possible way. It’s got so many opportunities to bring up discussion topics with kids especially if you’re reading it with them. There are some tough things these bunnies go through, and super sad moments that pull at your heartstrings but also some victories that make you pump your fist in the air and shout YES! I’m thankful for the balance.
The thing I’m loving about The Green Ember, is it may be geared towards kids, but it’s making me think deep and explore questions within my own self as an adult. The authors writing has definitely grown with each book.
I can’t say much without spoiling anything- but it just keeps getting better and better.
I keep forgetting to mention in my reviews that there are illustrations in each book and they add so much to the story seeing the little rabbits in their battle stances with their gear and weapons. Heather and Pickets character growth is outstanding, I also liked getting to know some of the new characters that are introduced. The cliffhanger has me so anxious and excited to see how it all wraps up- all I can say is I KNEW IT! Fingers crossed!
“My place beside you, my blood for yours! Till the Green Ember rises, or the end of the world!”
January 12, 2023
RTC eventually after I finish reviewing all those other books I have backlogged... XD
In the meantime, I think a sufficient review would go something like this:
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In the meantime, I think a sufficient review would go something like this:
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
May 26, 2021
Loved it. So did the kids. (And the illustrations, by my respected friend Zach Franzen, were also excellent.)
For a good while I was thinking that this book is the Benedict Option for kids—and for adults who dutifully read Dreher's hot-title-of-2017 but whose affections were not fully engaged by his more prosaic approach (which I did find helpful—this is not a criticism). Ember Rising, by contrast, engages the heart with a stirring story. In this story there is a real evil, real danger, real pain. And, more importantly, real hope and real joy. I felt the story showed respect to the feelings and thinking of kids: it avoided cloying, no-fall-ever-happened saccharinity; and yet it didn't over-burden the kids with darkness. The characters are well drawn, with personalities the kids could draw from. Captain Moonlight, Weezie, Helmer, Picket, Emma, Heather, Jacks—with the minor, partial, possible exception of Captain Vitton and Dr. Zeigler, no one was cartoonish, a common flaw among kids' books. And even those exceptions read as real within the overall narrative. By avoiding cartoonishness elsewhere, the book allows readers to enjoy its virtues.
My seven-year-old girl understood the cliffhanger ending, which also read as real: prices must be paid by the good guys, even when their cause is righteous. But the Mended Wood is coming, and they will be vindicated.
I said that for a good while I drew parallels to the Benedict Option. And I think they are certainly present. The good citadels are enclaves of the preservation of good rabbit culture. But I came to think as I neared the end that the book's sights are set on something higher and bigger than the future, post-dark-secular-age renaissance of the West. I think the Mended Wood is the New Earth.
But, in a way, the Mended Wood can be both the restored West and the restored planet. The glory and honor of the nations will enter the New Jerusalem. That includes the West, right? Maybe the Green Ember series will be some of the literary glory in that future city.
Highly recommended.
For a good while I was thinking that this book is the Benedict Option for kids—and for adults who dutifully read Dreher's hot-title-of-2017 but whose affections were not fully engaged by his more prosaic approach (which I did find helpful—this is not a criticism). Ember Rising, by contrast, engages the heart with a stirring story. In this story there is a real evil, real danger, real pain. And, more importantly, real hope and real joy. I felt the story showed respect to the feelings and thinking of kids: it avoided cloying, no-fall-ever-happened saccharinity; and yet it didn't over-burden the kids with darkness. The characters are well drawn, with personalities the kids could draw from. Captain Moonlight, Weezie, Helmer, Picket, Emma, Heather, Jacks—with the minor, partial, possible exception of Captain Vitton and Dr. Zeigler, no one was cartoonish, a common flaw among kids' books. And even those exceptions read as real within the overall narrative. By avoiding cartoonishness elsewhere, the book allows readers to enjoy its virtues.
My seven-year-old girl understood the cliffhanger ending, which also read as real: prices must be paid by the good guys, even when their cause is righteous. But the Mended Wood is coming, and they will be vindicated.
I said that for a good while I drew parallels to the Benedict Option. And I think they are certainly present. The good citadels are enclaves of the preservation of good rabbit culture. But I came to think as I neared the end that the book's sights are set on something higher and bigger than the future, post-dark-secular-age renaissance of the West. I think the Mended Wood is the New Earth.
But, in a way, the Mended Wood can be both the restored West and the restored planet. The glory and honor of the nations will enter the New Jerusalem. That includes the West, right? Maybe the Green Ember series will be some of the literary glory in that future city.
Highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2025
I cried during the last 2 chapters. This one ends with hope. I want to own the hard copies of this series one day.
“I’m right here in the story,
I don’t know the ending.
But I know one thing,
I’m meant for the Mending.
And we’re meant to be allies,
Sisters and brothers
To fight against evil,
And fight for each other.
My place beside you,
My blood for yours,
Till the Green Ember rises,
Or the end of the world!
I’m a part of this story,
Though I’m not the great king,
But what I do matters,
So I fight and I laugh and I sing!
My place beside you,
My blood for yours,
Till the Green Ember rises,
Or the end of the world!”
“I’m right here in the story,
I don’t know the ending.
But I know one thing,
I’m meant for the Mending.
And we’re meant to be allies,
Sisters and brothers
To fight against evil,
And fight for each other.
My place beside you,
My blood for yours,
Till the Green Ember rises,
Or the end of the world!
I’m a part of this story,
Though I’m not the great king,
But what I do matters,
So I fight and I laugh and I sing!
My place beside you,
My blood for yours,
Till the Green Ember rises,
Or the end of the world!”
July 17, 2022
I kind of blazed past this one and started the fourth one, but I'm going to try to recall what I can of this third book to leave a bit of a review XD The cliff hanger got me, guys! I had to!
I'm enjoying the series. It's fun to see the characters develop and even branch out on their own, but I also still admire their fierce loyalty to one another. The ties of friends and family run deep in this world, and that nobility warms my heart.
The plot continues to deepen and develop as we mount toward the impending climax. This was the first time we got to see a little more inside the enemy's camp, which was intriguing in its own way. The power structure and governing gave me some light WWII vibes, chilling for a kid's story, but so tactfully done.
I've been surprised at the depth of emotion this series has stirred and this third book was no exception. I think the combination of the incredible themes of hope, virtue, and suffering have just really struck a chord with me. I'm really looking forward to seeing the conclusion and certainly glad I had so many friends recommend this one!
Another thing I've been noticing in this third book is that Smith is really good at leaving us hanging! Not just that ending for the book, but even amidst the chapters themselves. The narrative splits into a few different places and he gives us just enough to want more before switching again. It's a great storytelling skill I greatly admire and would love to hone myself. As a reader, it was easy to follow the different events and threads without any confusion, but also he's killing me over here with the cliffies!
No foul language, a subtle thread of potential romance (that I am totally shipping), and some non-graphic fantasy violence. MG suitable for pre-teens.
I'm enjoying the series. It's fun to see the characters develop and even branch out on their own, but I also still admire their fierce loyalty to one another. The ties of friends and family run deep in this world, and that nobility warms my heart.
The plot continues to deepen and develop as we mount toward the impending climax. This was the first time we got to see a little more inside the enemy's camp, which was intriguing in its own way. The power structure and governing gave me some light WWII vibes, chilling for a kid's story, but so tactfully done.
I've been surprised at the depth of emotion this series has stirred and this third book was no exception. I think the combination of the incredible themes of hope, virtue, and suffering have just really struck a chord with me. I'm really looking forward to seeing the conclusion and certainly glad I had so many friends recommend this one!
Another thing I've been noticing in this third book is that Smith is really good at leaving us hanging! Not just that ending for the book, but even amidst the chapters themselves. The narrative splits into a few different places and he gives us just enough to want more before switching again. It's a great storytelling skill I greatly admire and would love to hone myself. As a reader, it was easy to follow the different events and threads without any confusion, but also he's killing me over here with the cliffies!
No foul language, a subtle thread of potential romance (that I am totally shipping), and some non-graphic fantasy violence. MG suitable for pre-teens.
January 27, 2018
We have loved this series so much, and I didn't think it could get any better, but it did! This book absolutely captivated me, and I could not put it down. The story is gripping, the characters and relationships have continued to develop, and it makes me feel even more drawn into the hope and light to which the key characters all are so passionately committed!
I cried and laughed and was absolutely absorbed in this world for a few days, and it has been really fun discussing it with my son who is reading it separately.
I have loved sharing these stories with my kids, but I would without a doubt read this even if I wasn't sharing it with them!
I cried and laughed and was absolutely absorbed in this world for a few days, and it has been really fun discussing it with my son who is reading it separately.
I have loved sharing these stories with my kids, but I would without a doubt read this even if I wasn't sharing it with them!
August 5, 2019
This series keeps getting better! Though I tell myself I'm pre-reading these to hand off to my 10 and 9 year olds, I get completely sucked into the story and the world of Natalia. What beautiful depictions of true heroism and messy courageous living! There is something haunting about the hope that persists in the midst of seemingly impossible situations and the courage to stand up for your convictions when you feel you are the only one. But then there's the relief of finding other true hearted friends who fight alongside you "till the Green Ember rises, or the end of the world!" Love it!
January 1, 2024
"We all can betray. The question is, will we?"
Oh man, my head is reelingbut maybe part of it is because I was so fixated on finishing this before the clock rang in the New Year and my feelings are all over the place!
I need time to gather my thoughts, so I can (hopefully) write a proper review later. But I will say that this was so, so good and I hope my library hurries up and gets the last book in the series!
Oh man, my head is reeling
I need time to gather my thoughts, so I can (hopefully) write a proper review later. But I will say that this was so, so good and I hope my library hurries up and gets the last book in the series!
Read
November 26, 2021Very good story. Read or listen with your kids. “My place beside you, my blood for yours.” Appreciated covenantal sacrificial themes laced through this. Also, nice to know that the author said in an interview that the entire writing process was covered with prayer longing to glorify the Lord. Enjoy.
June 15, 2018
OMG!!!! Best book in the series! It was sad in parts, and every chapter left you in suspense, I highly recommend this series. The end was SO sad. I believe S. D Smith will write another book because .....
March 16, 2019
It pains me to say it but I was rather disappointed with this book. The first one started out as a great read aloud for the whole family. It was really, really good. This one took a pretty dark turn that seems so out of character with the first two entries in the series. It really just kind of snuck up on me out of nowhere. For a story for kids about anthropomorphized bunnies, this was had some really sadistic villains who perpetrate all manner of cruelty (starving, burning with red hot pokers, 1984ish brainwashing of young rabbits, an annual victory feast where young rabbits are taken and eaten, etc). These are some pretty deep themes that seem much more applicable to a young adult series like the Hunger Games or any number of dystopian novels written for adults. Don’t get me wrong, the story in and of itself is actually pretty good but it really departed from its target audience and I really don’t like how dark a turn it took so suddenly. 2 Stars.
February 2, 2021
Honestly, this series just makes me happy. I love the unfolding saga of these rabbits.
I can't say much because of spoilers, but this book brought the whole thing to the next level. This tugged at my heartstrings and made me want to hug a lot of the characters.
That ending though. O.o
This was just amazing. I look forward to the next book.
2021>> This is amazing. best of the series.<3
I can't say much because of spoilers, but this book brought the whole thing to the next level. This tugged at my heartstrings and made me want to hug a lot of the characters.
That ending though. O.o
This was just amazing. I look forward to the next book.
2021>> This is amazing. best of the series.<3
May 11, 2024
This book is just supremely amazing. Nothing about it disappointed me. But it did shock me in several ways. There was a lot of grotesque concepts and scenes but they were somehow described in a veiled and child appropriate manner. Things such as children being fed to hawks as food after being purposely plumped up, war scenes with many sad deaths and a lot of sorrow, kin attempting murder family members and using a hot blade to burn into someone's arm. Even with the story being about rabbits, wolves and animals in general, the story felt very human and worldly. But even with all of this, I would still read this to a child, because it all had purpose in the book and nothing felt unnecessarily grotesque. This book felt epic, heroic, saddening and just gave an amazing message. I felt like it showed how the world functions today. I would still describe this as a children's book, there were many children's book tropes in it, but even so I love this book and will forever recommend this series to anyone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2018
What a glorious story! Each Green Ember book has gotten steadily better in its storytelling and pacing, and its world has grown both vaster and more richly layered. I enjoyed the earlier books, but Ember Rising is truly an achievement.
One of my favorite aspects of this book, and really the series as a whole, is that small, weak, and seemingly marginal rabbits have their heroic roles to play as well—not just the frontline soldiers, kings, and princesses. Everyone is called to their “little work,” as Emma wisely says, which has its part among all the thousands of others in the great Story.
And so many interesting characters, both male and female! Harmony, Heyna, wonderful Helmer. WEEZIE. So many backstories I’d love to see explored in future novellas. ;)
The violence in this book is grimmer, and there are more chilling moments (perhaps for adult readers even more than for children). But the tender moments ring truer as well.
And the ending...!
The next installment can’t come quickly enough. And I do hope it won’t be the last.
One of my favorite aspects of this book, and really the series as a whole, is that small, weak, and seemingly marginal rabbits have their heroic roles to play as well—not just the frontline soldiers, kings, and princesses. Everyone is called to their “little work,” as Emma wisely says, which has its part among all the thousands of others in the great Story.
And so many interesting characters, both male and female! Harmony, Heyna, wonderful Helmer. WEEZIE. So many backstories I’d love to see explored in future novellas. ;)
The violence in this book is grimmer, and there are more chilling moments (perhaps for adult readers even more than for children). But the tender moments ring truer as well.
And the ending...!
The next installment can’t come quickly enough. And I do hope it won’t be the last.
February 28, 2018
Ember Rising is the most mature, exciting, and adventurous Green Ember book yet! It's intense and fast-paced and still lovely. Oh so lovely.
June 25, 2018
IT WAS AMAZING!!!
March 21, 2018
Mr. Smith has done it again. What a beautiful story of hope and perseverance! I'm so glad books like this are being written.
April 16, 2022
“‘Tell them we died like heroes!’ [he] called. Then he pointed his drawn sword at the advancing wolves. ‘Tell them we did our duty!’ A shout from defiant rabbits echoed through the forest. ‘Let fly!’ [He] cried as the operators released the last blastarrows to fly at the attacking pack. ‘Tell them,’ he whispered to himself just before the explosion, ‘that we were brave.’”
This achingly beautiful book is about battle and sacrifice and the courage that is requisite in the face of true evil. It is also about raising the banner high and clinging to hope and that which is good when there is so much reason to despair. Ember Rising by S. D. Smith is the third book in the main Green Ember series, and is 114 pages longer than Ember Falls at 445 pages. And none of those pages are wasted.
“Distantly, she remembered the cause and the reasons she had exchanged her life . . . through her anguish, she weighed the cost and settled in her heart that it was worth it.”
In this review, I will assume that readers are familiar with the first two books in the series, but I will work to avoid spoilers (both from the first two books and this one) in case parents are reading these to determine whether or not the series will be a good fit for their readers.
“I wanted my little work to fit together with thousands of other little works to make a great mosaic of hope.”
In this third book, it is only a week after the devastating tragedy of the second book. But, as one of our favorite characters says, that week feels like a lifetime ago. Because war is underway, the rabbits are scattered between several locations. I found it incredibly helpful to refer to the maps in the front of the book as they were traveling. By separating the characters from each other, Smith allows us to meet more delightful characters as well as the chance to see different (and fascinating) settings. The mountain prison city of Akolan feels very different from the woods of First Warren.
“I remembered, with deep fondness, how it felt to be in our old place in its day. The laughter, the music, and the families all together. Regulars mixed in with travelers, from younglings to the oldest around. It was humming with life. So, to help recapture the imagination of the community, and to honor my own family legacy, I created the Citadel of Dreams. We snatch rabbits, yes. We take them from their lives of bleak indignities, and we bring them to an inn of life and light. We bring them here to remind them of what we had, and what we might have again.”
As wolf attacks are a constant reality for the rabbits of Harbone Citadel, and rabbits of First Warren are living like slaves in a totalitarian regime, the rabbits of Akolan are living through special horrors in the prison state bordering Morbin’s lair, and the rabbits of Terralain dispute the succession to the throne. Everywhere the rabbits look, evil appears to be winning. I will explain the horrors of Akolan below, but what matters most is that everywhere that evil is having its hour, a growing number of rabbit-kind are banding together in resistance, and they are sowing the seeds of the victory that will surely come. In the middle of First Warren, a band of rabbits is living in the underground Citadel of Dreams where rabbits, like those of Cloud Mountain, are fighting back with song and dance as much as with bows and arrows.
“...there is no cost too high for doing what is right and no retribution great enough for doing what is wrong. To believe otherwise is to surrender our liberty to lies . . . we are small but determined. We are hard-pressed but persistent. We are wounded, yet we live. We are humble but hopeful. And our hope is ignited by the sight of you . . .”
This book might be the most interesting of the series. Many things are all happening in symphony, and all of them keep readers on the edge of their seats. As the monarch is working to organize support from the lords of each citadel, several characters are breaking into First Warren to fight behind enemy lines, and a beloved character has been imprisoned in Akolan who discovers an incredible resistance movement that is on the cusp of significant action. This story delights us with lots of meaningful action, some wonderful new characters, and some truly excellent heroics. But, it also challenges us with some dark and disturbing (but necessary) storylines. As always, Smith loves his readers and, while he is unafraid of properly conveying the wickedness of the other side, he does it gracefully. I think Smith is courageous for writing these hard things, and I think the story is richer because of them. That said, I think some may wish to know what these things are so they can properly discern the best time and way in which to share this book with their readers.
At this point, I think it is important to unpack some of the horrors of Akolan. I will try to be just general enough to avoid spoilers.
Dogmatists/Boarding School
“He’s been so carefully cultivated by the dogmatists in the Sixth District . . . we tried to subtly counter what was happening. But he’s one of them.”
In Akolan, the rabbit younglings are taken from their homes and enrolled in a regime school where they are immersed in the rhetoric of the traitors. They are conditioned to dismiss the authority of their parents and to adopt the authority of the rabbits who have sided with the Lords of Prey. They stay at school for about ten days, return home for a few days, and then return to school. When they are home, they call their parents by their first names, they “educate” their families on how things should be, and they report on their parents whenever they witness anything that deviates from their training. Clearly, this should remind us of the schools in Russia during the last century and the schools in Germany leading up to World War II.
Disregard for life
“If they can be healed and put back to assigned jobs,” he said casually, “then that’s a good work. But we must protect our resources, and too many rabbits mean depleted resources.”
This quote is from a child to an adult who is a doctor. The child is repeating what he learned at school about the value of life. Only those rabbits who are productive members of the state should be permitted to draw resources like food and shelter. And, those members who are not productive should be exterminated. It is unclear if the child knows that that means the culled rabbits will become food for the Lords of Prey.
Branding
“He reached for the tongs and took up the blazing orange rod. She felt the heat as he brought the blazing hot metal close to her face. ‘My work is this!’ he said, bringing the orange rod down on her arm.”
All rabbits in Akolan must wear a preymark (a red bandana around their necks) which identifies them as outwallers (prisoners) as well as a brand (like cattle). This is the only scene in which a rabbit is branded, and it is just a few lines like this, but it is disturbing.
Rabbits for the Table
“They end on Morbin’s table, as food for his dark rites . . . I am sorry to tell you this, and there’s much more I could say. I never think of betraying the hope of the Mended Wood, where such things shall not be so. I never have, and I never will. I’d rather die than take sides with those whose cause is so drenched in innocent blood. And I am heartbroken that any rabbit can turn a blind eye to it.”
This has to be the most awful and tragic part of the book. When several of our heroes learn about it, they become nauseated and we feel the same way. Every parent knows that Morbin and his Lords of Prey will have a regular supply of youngling rabbits to feast on. Parents know that when their children go to school and become indoctrinated against the parent it is done in part to limit the parent’s ability to help their child resist the torture that might come. Every parent also knows that if they themselves do not behave in full compliance with all of the protocols, their child will likely be singled out to be a “special” rabbit. Once a youngling has been chosen, they are told they are being rewarded and are going on a special adventure. For the two weeks before their “adventure,” they are given special and delicious foods designed to ready them for their upcoming quest. The parents have to watch their children eat their special rations knowing full well what they are for.
((Small Spoiler)) It is important to know that none of the younglings are sacrificed during this book. Our heroes do rescue them. Again, Smith tells hard stories but does so with sensitivity and grace.
“Thank you for loving us . . . thank you for preparing us for the unnumbered dangers we’ve faced. We had no idea that when you gave us all the light you did, you were guiding us to one day strike out at the darkness so fiercely. We have been far from flawless, but we have made a hard dart at that darkness. We have seen cracks forming and the light seeping in.”
But, for all of that darkness, there is more light. By the end of the book, several key victories advance the story and the hope of a significant miracle in the offing leaves us, the readers, feeling triumphant and eager for the final installment.
“The free and faithful rabbits of First Warren sang their raucous songs, few of which [he] knew but all of which he loved. They sang, full-throated and damp-eyed, of the love they had for their home and their enduring hope for the Mended Wood.”
This achingly beautiful book is about battle and sacrifice and the courage that is requisite in the face of true evil. It is also about raising the banner high and clinging to hope and that which is good when there is so much reason to despair. Ember Rising by S. D. Smith is the third book in the main Green Ember series, and is 114 pages longer than Ember Falls at 445 pages. And none of those pages are wasted.
“Distantly, she remembered the cause and the reasons she had exchanged her life . . . through her anguish, she weighed the cost and settled in her heart that it was worth it.”
In this review, I will assume that readers are familiar with the first two books in the series, but I will work to avoid spoilers (both from the first two books and this one) in case parents are reading these to determine whether or not the series will be a good fit for their readers.
“I wanted my little work to fit together with thousands of other little works to make a great mosaic of hope.”
In this third book, it is only a week after the devastating tragedy of the second book. But, as one of our favorite characters says, that week feels like a lifetime ago. Because war is underway, the rabbits are scattered between several locations. I found it incredibly helpful to refer to the maps in the front of the book as they were traveling. By separating the characters from each other, Smith allows us to meet more delightful characters as well as the chance to see different (and fascinating) settings. The mountain prison city of Akolan feels very different from the woods of First Warren.
“I remembered, with deep fondness, how it felt to be in our old place in its day. The laughter, the music, and the families all together. Regulars mixed in with travelers, from younglings to the oldest around. It was humming with life. So, to help recapture the imagination of the community, and to honor my own family legacy, I created the Citadel of Dreams. We snatch rabbits, yes. We take them from their lives of bleak indignities, and we bring them to an inn of life and light. We bring them here to remind them of what we had, and what we might have again.”
As wolf attacks are a constant reality for the rabbits of Harbone Citadel, and rabbits of First Warren are living like slaves in a totalitarian regime, the rabbits of Akolan are living through special horrors in the prison state bordering Morbin’s lair, and the rabbits of Terralain dispute the succession to the throne. Everywhere the rabbits look, evil appears to be winning. I will explain the horrors of Akolan below, but what matters most is that everywhere that evil is having its hour, a growing number of rabbit-kind are banding together in resistance, and they are sowing the seeds of the victory that will surely come. In the middle of First Warren, a band of rabbits is living in the underground Citadel of Dreams where rabbits, like those of Cloud Mountain, are fighting back with song and dance as much as with bows and arrows.
“...there is no cost too high for doing what is right and no retribution great enough for doing what is wrong. To believe otherwise is to surrender our liberty to lies . . . we are small but determined. We are hard-pressed but persistent. We are wounded, yet we live. We are humble but hopeful. And our hope is ignited by the sight of you . . .”
This book might be the most interesting of the series. Many things are all happening in symphony, and all of them keep readers on the edge of their seats. As the monarch is working to organize support from the lords of each citadel, several characters are breaking into First Warren to fight behind enemy lines, and a beloved character has been imprisoned in Akolan who discovers an incredible resistance movement that is on the cusp of significant action. This story delights us with lots of meaningful action, some wonderful new characters, and some truly excellent heroics. But, it also challenges us with some dark and disturbing (but necessary) storylines. As always, Smith loves his readers and, while he is unafraid of properly conveying the wickedness of the other side, he does it gracefully. I think Smith is courageous for writing these hard things, and I think the story is richer because of them. That said, I think some may wish to know what these things are so they can properly discern the best time and way in which to share this book with their readers.
At this point, I think it is important to unpack some of the horrors of Akolan. I will try to be just general enough to avoid spoilers.
Dogmatists/Boarding School
“He’s been so carefully cultivated by the dogmatists in the Sixth District . . . we tried to subtly counter what was happening. But he’s one of them.”
In Akolan, the rabbit younglings are taken from their homes and enrolled in a regime school where they are immersed in the rhetoric of the traitors. They are conditioned to dismiss the authority of their parents and to adopt the authority of the rabbits who have sided with the Lords of Prey. They stay at school for about ten days, return home for a few days, and then return to school. When they are home, they call their parents by their first names, they “educate” their families on how things should be, and they report on their parents whenever they witness anything that deviates from their training. Clearly, this should remind us of the schools in Russia during the last century and the schools in Germany leading up to World War II.
Disregard for life
“If they can be healed and put back to assigned jobs,” he said casually, “then that’s a good work. But we must protect our resources, and too many rabbits mean depleted resources.”
This quote is from a child to an adult who is a doctor. The child is repeating what he learned at school about the value of life. Only those rabbits who are productive members of the state should be permitted to draw resources like food and shelter. And, those members who are not productive should be exterminated. It is unclear if the child knows that that means the culled rabbits will become food for the Lords of Prey.
Branding
“He reached for the tongs and took up the blazing orange rod. She felt the heat as he brought the blazing hot metal close to her face. ‘My work is this!’ he said, bringing the orange rod down on her arm.”
All rabbits in Akolan must wear a preymark (a red bandana around their necks) which identifies them as outwallers (prisoners) as well as a brand (like cattle). This is the only scene in which a rabbit is branded, and it is just a few lines like this, but it is disturbing.
Rabbits for the Table
“They end on Morbin’s table, as food for his dark rites . . . I am sorry to tell you this, and there’s much more I could say. I never think of betraying the hope of the Mended Wood, where such things shall not be so. I never have, and I never will. I’d rather die than take sides with those whose cause is so drenched in innocent blood. And I am heartbroken that any rabbit can turn a blind eye to it.”
This has to be the most awful and tragic part of the book. When several of our heroes learn about it, they become nauseated and we feel the same way. Every parent knows that Morbin and his Lords of Prey will have a regular supply of youngling rabbits to feast on. Parents know that when their children go to school and become indoctrinated against the parent it is done in part to limit the parent’s ability to help their child resist the torture that might come. Every parent also knows that if they themselves do not behave in full compliance with all of the protocols, their child will likely be singled out to be a “special” rabbit. Once a youngling has been chosen, they are told they are being rewarded and are going on a special adventure. For the two weeks before their “adventure,” they are given special and delicious foods designed to ready them for their upcoming quest. The parents have to watch their children eat their special rations knowing full well what they are for.
((Small Spoiler)) It is important to know that none of the younglings are sacrificed during this book. Our heroes do rescue them. Again, Smith tells hard stories but does so with sensitivity and grace.
“Thank you for loving us . . . thank you for preparing us for the unnumbered dangers we’ve faced. We had no idea that when you gave us all the light you did, you were guiding us to one day strike out at the darkness so fiercely. We have been far from flawless, but we have made a hard dart at that darkness. We have seen cracks forming and the light seeping in.”
But, for all of that darkness, there is more light. By the end of the book, several key victories advance the story and the hope of a significant miracle in the offing leaves us, the readers, feeling triumphant and eager for the final installment.
“The free and faithful rabbits of First Warren sang their raucous songs, few of which [he] knew but all of which he loved. They sang, full-throated and damp-eyed, of the love they had for their home and their enduring hope for the Mended Wood.”
March 24, 2021
Daniel: This is the 3rd of the Green Ember series. It alternates chapters of adventures of Heather and Picket.
Spoilers below:
First I will tell Picket's adventures: He goes to Harbone citadel with captain Helmer, where they find Helmer's old friend Lord Hewson. They then sent Picket and Helmer with gliders into First Warren, where they see the horror planned by prince Winslow. They go to the house of Airen, Helmer's sister, and Picket walks with Weezie, then they go into the citadel of Dreams, which is under First Warren, and join the underground resistance. They rebel against Winslow on Victory Day, and Picket finds Cole and Jo, and learns that Lord Hewson died trying to get them into First Warren. They then take First Warren after a fierce battle. They shoot down all the raptor sentinels to delay Morbin's knowledge of the loss of First Warren.
Next, Emma's adventures: They attempt to unite all the citadels, and they almost succeed, but Kylen of Terralain remains loyal to Morbin. She attacks First Warren and leads it to victory, where she meets Picket.
Lastly, Heather's adventures: She is carried by an eagle into the slave city of Akolan, where she finds her mother, father and little brother Jacks. She finds in horror that he is to be fed to Morbin. Akolan has six districts. She then, along with her parents, discovers a Seventh District, the district of freedom, and on Victory day her father and the rabbits of district five lead all the rabbits to freedom. She is caught by an eagle and is thrown down a cavern where she discovers Smalls.
Spoilers below:
First I will tell Picket's adventures: He goes to Harbone citadel with captain Helmer, where they find Helmer's old friend Lord Hewson. They then sent Picket and Helmer with gliders into First Warren, where they see the horror planned by prince Winslow. They go to the house of Airen, Helmer's sister, and Picket walks with Weezie, then they go into the citadel of Dreams, which is under First Warren, and join the underground resistance. They rebel against Winslow on Victory Day, and Picket finds Cole and Jo, and learns that Lord Hewson died trying to get them into First Warren. They then take First Warren after a fierce battle. They shoot down all the raptor sentinels to delay Morbin's knowledge of the loss of First Warren.
Next, Emma's adventures: They attempt to unite all the citadels, and they almost succeed, but Kylen of Terralain remains loyal to Morbin. She attacks First Warren and leads it to victory, where she meets Picket.
Lastly, Heather's adventures: She is carried by an eagle into the slave city of Akolan, where she finds her mother, father and little brother Jacks. She finds in horror that he is to be fed to Morbin. Akolan has six districts. She then, along with her parents, discovers a Seventh District, the district of freedom, and on Victory day her father and the rabbits of district five lead all the rabbits to freedom. She is caught by an eagle and is thrown down a cavern where she discovers Smalls.
Read
November 15, 2018DNF.
October 16, 2023
Powerful. Defy tyranny, reject propaganda.
January 22, 2023
This is my favorite book in the Green Ember series. Despite being set in two of the most depressing sounding places in the books there's so much hope and so much good.
New intriguing characters to meet and battles to turn the tide of, Ember Rising will definitely not bore you. This book reminds you to bear the flame and fight every day for the Mended Wood.
New intriguing characters to meet and battles to turn the tide of, Ember Rising will definitely not bore you. This book reminds you to bear the flame and fight every day for the Mended Wood.
November 25, 2023
We had to come back to this book, years ago the whole tiny rabbits sacrificed to the prey lords was a little too intense. My kids love the action and characters in this series.
June 13, 2023
This one was a bit more intense (and longer) than the previous 2. I really liked it, but might make my 8 year old son wait a bit to read this one. There are some more difficult plot points in this one that might be a little scary for him. I went to download the 4th book and was so bummed that it isn't out yet. I will be eagerly awaiting! I also like that there is good stuff in this series for boys and girls. They are all types of characters for a kid to connect with. I think this will be one of those books that will really "stick with" a kid and inspire them to do what's right even when it is hard.
October 11, 2021
I wasn't thrilled with the first two books in this series, so I waited a while before getting around to this book. (I still have a difficult time with the idea of rabbits fighting against wolves and birds of prey.) But once I got going with this book, I didn't want to stop. The development of Picket's character, in particular, and his growing bond with Helmer made this book enjoyable to read.
March 2, 2018
I got the book today and I couldn't put it down. my heart aches for the darkness but the hope at the end makes it totally worth it!!
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