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Rating: 
Summary: Historical Ninjas Come Alive!
Review: I read Blue Fingers with my 11 year old son and we both loved it. He zeroed in on action scenes and the details about how real life 15th century ninjas lived and trained (rather than how the modern media depicts them). I enjoyed the ninja philosophy, depth of relationships and rich atmosphere. I also appreciated the balancing act the author does in portraying the ninja-warrior society without turning to unnecessary violence. Danger is always there, lurking... But not so that young readers will be too scared to read on. One emphasis is on the ninjas' honor code. Also, Koji's personal experience as a farm boy training to become a ninja. My son was riveted to the book as Koji goes on missions to the nearby samurai's castle, using ninja tricks and techniques to help rid the valley of guns. (The book is set in 1545, 2 years after guns were first imported into Japan.) An all around good read for kids who love action but want more depth--and their parents will enjoy the unusual world depicted, too! Five stars!
Rating: 
Summary: Not Your Typical Ninja Book
Review: In feudal Japan twins are considered bad luck, something Koji would agree with whole-heartedly. His twin seems to always be just a little bit better, while Koji feels he can't seem to do anything right. When his twin saves a rich merchant's life, Koji is surprised when his parents choose him to become the apprentice. After failing with the merchant, Koji runs away only to be captured by Ninjas, or, as they call themselves, blades of grass. The book begins somewhat slowly and focuses heavily on the culture of Ninjas, so it will not appeal to readers who wish for constant action. It is however very strong historical fiction and will leave the reader knowing far more about the fascinating world of Ninjas.
Rating:
Summary: Well thought out, fun, and definately moving. BRAVO!
Review: What an exciting look into the ancient world of a Samurai lord-ruled Japan! When peasants toiled under the hot sun all day just to hand over their rice to their fattened lords. This tale is about a boy who is for the most part normal except he is an identical twin that has been chosen to apprentice with a local dye maker for kimonos. As the tale unfolds itself, you will find yourself on the edge of your seat so to speak as you eagerly flip the pages to find out more about our young protagonist and the delightful world about him. The young man is beset with jealousy and family troubles that cause the brash young man to run away from home and into a legendary way of life. The book identifies with the boy's difficulty as a captive in a group of tribal ninjas and his later eagerness to be re-united with his family. You will feel young again as you feel cast in the boys sandals.
The book will have you turning each delicious page from the intriguing cover art to the last line in a few short days. This wonderful book is a must have for anyone interested in the mysterious ways of the ninja or ancient Japan. The book is suitable for all ages. This book has a very little violence factor so I would recommend it for any age group. Prepare for some great story-telling, well written characters you can love and hate, and a feeling of being there that is so important in a book read for leisure. Let's see more from this author!
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