This is another well-written story by Mitali Perkins, this time set during the conflict in Burma (renamed Myanmar) between the military rulers and the ethnic minority Karenni. Chiko is a book-smart boy trying to avoid being forced into the military like most boys his age. Tu Reh is a Karenni refugee who hates the Burmese soldiers for burning his home. Chiko responds to an ad in the paper for boys who want to becomes teachers, but finds that instead it is a trap to force boys to serve the military government. The two boys are destined to meet, and through their relationship, work through their feelings about what’s going on in their country. I won’t say there’s a happy ending, but both boys show great courage and heart. Review by Stacy Church
