Lost Childhood

Lost Childhood: My Life in a Japanese Prison Camp During World War II by Annelex Hofstra Layson


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


A different WWII story, as this was about a Dutch girl who was living on the island of Java when the Japanese took over, and her family became POWs. Annelex is only 4 when the Japanese make her a prisoner. She was one of the "lucky" ones though, because she was able to be with her mom and grandmother.  Her brother, who was only 10, was sent with the men to a different camp. Annelex was subjected to witnessing horrible cruelty and death, but the two women in her life were strong, and were able to keep her alive.
This is a quick, easy read, and a perfect way for middle school students to learn about this phase of history.




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Every Soul a Star

Every Soul A Star by Wendy Mass


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This was a terrific story. As a major solar eclipse is approaching, three very different characters, with very different problems, are brought together at Moonshadow Camp to witness the phenomenon. This unlikely group of kids, with very real problems, quickly become each other's best supporters. Wendy Mass does a fantastic job, I even liked Bree, who was pretty annoying. The characters make you laugh, and sometimes make you cry. Well written, and, I even learned something about the stars. I look forward to reading more of her books.




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