2. I would categorize this book as epic science fiction. Because it’s epic.
3. This book is action-packed, but still has room for moments that make you want to cry. It deals with some mature themes - some of which might be lost on a younger audience. Watch out though. As soon as you start getting choked up, strap in, because the next thing you know you will be following an epic and incredibly intelligent battle game, all tears forgotten.
Plot synopsis that in no way does the story justice:
Ender is chosen to go to Battle School, a school for genius
children to train for battle (who would’ve guessed?). What Ender doesn’t know,
at first, is that he was chosen as mankind’s last hope to save earth from the
buggers (aliens) – if he can survive the training and achieve his potential.
What I loved about this book:
Ender. He is smart – a genius – and often lonely. He is
compassionate and ruthless at the same time. He doubts himself, growing in some
incredible ways, and yet in other areas, stubbornly refusing to see things the
way they are, or to grow or change at all – something that is profoundly true
to life.
The battles. I can’t explain them, you just need to read
them. Ender’s brain works out intelligent battle plans, sometimes
in-the-moment. I was frequently astonished at the lucidity of his choices and
the way he viewed things differently than others – something that caused his
battle plans to be creative and surprisingly effective. Few authors can
describe a battle and keep me interested. (Sorry, I know that is maybe girly of
me, but I get bored with troop movements. Maybe that is why I never play Risk.)
To date, there are only a few authors who have captured my interest in this area:
J.R.R. Tolkien is one; Orson Scott Card
is another.
I’m a cynic at heart. I really am. I’m not all in-your-face
about it like I was when I was a teenager, but I’m still very cynical deep
inside (I just call it practicality now). This book appealed to the cynic
within me. I can’t say more without giving important plot points away, but if
you too like cold harsh reality (of made -up future worlds of course – not really real cold harsh reality) then you
will appreciate this book.
I would recommend this book to children in middle school all the way up to adults of all ages.Younger kids wouldn't really be able to follow the plot, which is somewhat complex. There is some violence, but overall Card delivers a beautifully complex message about violence and war.
