Vivid characters and sense of place. A compelling read that will get readers thinking about the serious issue of involving children in warfare. ( )

A heart pounding sequel to "Chanda's Secrets". Chanda's world once again falls apart when her two siblings are kidnapped by an imfamous warlord. Remembering the promise she made to her mother, who died of AIDS, she sets out to rescue them. An amazing and inspiring read no one should miss! ( )

Set in Africa, where war is still a very real threat for all people, we are drawn into the life of Chanda. With both parents gone, 16 year old Chanda is in charge of her two younger siblings, Iris and Soly. When disturbing dreams send Chanda back to her mother's family for absolution (see Stratton's previous book Chanda's Secrets), the worst happens. Iris and Soly are stolen by rebel leader General Mandiki, a ruthless man who uses children as soldiers.
Told through the eyes of Chanda, we travel with her through her emotional journey of trying to keep her family together. This is a safe gateway into a world that very few have an opportunity to experience, and hopefully will raise awareness of the lifestyle and still present dangers in Africa. ( )

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and could not put it down (always a good sign). A good book to read for some cultural differentiation. ( )

I think the book was kind of slow at first but then it was getting better and better when Chanda visit her relatives and this evil dude kept stealing kids and Nelson and her went to save the kids ( )