USBBY Outstanding International Books Honor List
In this book, Deborah Ellis turns her attention to the most tragic
victims of the Iraq war -- Iraqi children. She interviews young people,
mostly refugees living in Jordan, but also a few who are trying to build
new lives in North America. Some families have left Iraq with money;
others are penniless and ill or disabled. Most of the children have
parents who are working illegally or not at all, and the fear of
deportation is a constant threat.
Ellis provides an historical overview and brief explanations of context,
but other than that allows the children to speak for themselves, with
minimal editorial comment or interference. Their stories are frank,
harrowing and sometimes show surprising resilience, as the children try
to survive the consequences of a war in which they played no part. A
glossary, map and suggestions for further information are included.