I generally review romance, paranormal and urban fantasy. I tend to pick review books that I want to read, so generally my reviews will be positive. I always give my honest opinion: good, bad, and indifferent.
Note: on my blog I use a letter grading system. I've listed the ratings below. For sites with stars, I have listed the equivalent rating. If I didn't finish the book, I will not rate it with stars.
A+ Personal Favorite (5 stars)
A Loved It (4.5 or 5 stars)
A- Enjoyed A Lot (4 or 4.5 stars)
B+ Liked It A Lot (4 stars)
B Liked It -- Recommend (4 stars)
B- Liked It -- But I had a few small issues (3 or 3.5 stars)
C+ Liked It -- But I had issues (3 or 3.5 stars)
C Finished It -- Liked some, didn't like some (3 stars)
C- Finished It -- Liked a little, didn't like a lot (2 or 2.5 stars)
D Not A Big Fan (2 stars)
E Don’t Waste Your Time (1 star)
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TW: Reading this book was like watching a Train Wreck
DNF: Did Not Finish
updated July 9, 2015
Ender's Game is the story of Andrew "Ender" Wiggin, a six-year old boy who was breed to be the next military genius and is the last hope for humanity. Earth was twice attacked by the "buggers," an alien race of insect-like humanoids. In hopes that the third invasion will be the last one, the International Fleet puts Ender through test after test, letting him struggle and win, hoping to create the commander who will put an end to any future wars.
Ender's Game is an interesting, yet emotionally difficult read, filled with mind games and battle strategy. I think the reason I found it so hard is that I am a mom of a 10-year old boy, and if my son was ever put through one-tenth of what happened to Ender, it would be too much. Ender was manipulated and used by those around him, to the point of pure military perfection, but the cost was significant. Ender never had a childhood, and anytime he became remotely content or happy, it was stripped from him. I found myself broken inside, wanted to hold Ender and let him know he is loved.
The concepts and story of Ender's Game are not unfamiliar, yet there is some uniqueness to the plot. The story is well-written and provides for an compelling intellectual read, but I wouldn't rate it as one of the top science fiction books. Possibly I'm too old (and too much of a mom) to enjoy the nuances of what happens to Ender in pursuit of creating the perfect military leader.
In the end, I am glad I read the story. It is one that my son and I will discuss; therefore, it is another way for us to share and grow a little closer. I would recommend this story for middle school and older.