The Fallen Country

Rating:
Summary: a fine, uncompromising exploration of domestic violence
Review: Although this is a children's book in format, the author doesn't pull any punches. I first read it in 1986. It's been out of print for a long time, but this edition has a cool "extra"; the original short story that the author expanded into the novel, which is written from the child counselor's viewpoint. It's a pretty searing book, but beautiful, too.

Rating:
Summary: A modern classic of fiction for young people.
Review: Like Rowling, Somtow writes children's literature without talking down to the reader. Far too many books for young people make the mistake of thinking that children can't understand what they read. Somtow let's the story unfold on it's own with out needing to censor reality. It's a pity that his work doesn't get the recognition that it deserves. Adding the original short story is a nice touch for this edition, but the novel is a true masterpiece.

Rating:
Summary: A modern classic of fiction for young people.
Review: Like Rowling, Somtow writes children's literature without talking down to the reader. Far too many books for young people make the mistake of thinking that children can't understand what they read. Somtow let's the story unfold on it's own with out needing to censor reality. It's a pity that his work doesn't get the recognition that it deserves. Adding the original short story is a nice touch for this edition, but the novel is a true masterpiece.