Myers, W. D. (2008). Sunrise Over Fallujah. (p. 304). Scholastic Press.
ISBN: 0439916240
Classification: book, fiction
Genre: realistic fiction
Age Level: 10th-12th grade
Subjects: fiction, war, current events
Reader's Annotation: Robin Perry is serving in Iraq with a Civilian Affairs unit and he learns about the harsh realities of a war that most people thought should have already ended.
Summary: Robin Perry, who becomes known as "Birdy," disobeys his father's wishes and leaves Harlem for the war in Iraq rather than heading to college. The story follows Birdy and the rest of his Civilian Affairs unit through the first half of 2003, when many thought the war would be over quickly. As part of the Civilian Affairs, or CA, Birdy and his unit are supposed to be making connections with the Iraqi people, offering protection and first aid, seeking intelligence, and generally putting a friendly face on the American presence in Iraq. As the story progresses, the unit is involved in more and more combat, and it is increasingly difficult to tell friend from foe, or to imagine a speedy end to the conflict. Birdy writes home to his parents, and to "Uncle Richie," who is the main character in Meyer's award winning novel about Vietnam, "Fallen Angels."
Reviews / Awards:
School Library Journal ReviewWalter Dean Myers Website
Potential Hotspots:
fighting, violence, death, attempted rape
Readalikes:
- Tamar by Mal Peet
- Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane
- Catch 22 by Joseph Heller
This book is a great way to attempt to understand the war in Iraq. The wide cast of characters presents an array of viewpoints about the situation and will help teens envision the many shades of grey involved in the war.
Other:
A challenging book to read at times, but completely worthwhile. I feel I understand the war better than I used to.
Evaluation:
4 stars
No comments:
Post a Comment