Anne De Graaf (1) (1964–)

Tells the tale of two siblings during a tumultuous period with multiple civil wars in Liberia. Told in small blocks of narrative from both Lucky and Nopi's points of view. The siblings have awful experiences both on the run and when they are involved in the civil war. The author has provided a short articles about Liberia at the conclusion of the story, pictures and writings from child soldiers.
At times the details are so sparse and the narrative just provides a sketch, the reader longs for show more more details although having more information might prove too heartbreaking and too horrible.
The author has used a style that employs the characters speaking directly to the reader. show less

This is a harsh and violent story about the involvement of children in the civil war in Liberia. Told in alternating accounts, it is the story of Nopi and her little brother Lucky. The two are taken from school by soldiers and forced to join their fight. As the story unfolds ( we “see” everything through the eyes of these two children)and covers the next eight years of their lives. Violence and uncertainty form a major part of their lives but Nopi, who was 10 at the beginning of the show more story, and Lucky survive their ordeal. The atrocities are handled well for a young audience. They are not overly graphic but enough to explain the horror of the situation. The children are amongst the lucky ones although Nopi has been left deaf due to a beating. They are jubilant at being united with their parents but are they permanently scarred by their experiences? There is no straightforward, happy-ever-after ending.
Although it is a fictional story it is based on factual accounts. The author, Anne De Graaf, bases her narrative on interviews with Liberian children. She provides historical, political, economic, and social information in the back in appendices with photos, maps, facts and figures. It also includes drawings and letters by young survivors of the civil war that give you some hope for the future. show less

This novella is a heart-wrenching story of a brother and sister kidnapped to fight in the Liberian Civil War at the ages of 8 and 10. They are survivors, but not without paying the huge price of their childhood and innocence. I predict that this book will leave an indelible impression on its readers, for although quite short, it packs a huge punch. The story is only 89 pages, followed by pages of information about Liberia, its culture, and history.

A vividly detailed, grim story about child soldier survivors of the Liberian civil war. Unfortunately titled, but powerful, poignant, and gripping. The author includes excellent back matter for historical context.