Nobody's Child

A superb read, and a tough, no nonsense look at the Armenian Genocide of the early twentieth century. Marsha Skrypuch helps us to remember the atrocities of the past, so that hopefully history will not be repeated. This book is a prequel, in a sense, to *The Hunger*. If you've read that, this is a must read. If you haven't read *The Hunger*, I suggest you do so now, and then read *Nobody's Child*. You won't be disappointed.

Nobody's Child is a moving and compelling story that addresses serious issues with charm, power, and hope. The book humanizes the tragedy of the Armenian genocide through its strong portrayal of young adults caught in the middle. The young characters in this book, through their determination, courage, and love for each other and their families provide a powerful illustration of the fortitude, compassion, the hopefulness, and the strength of young people even in the most difficult circumstances. While not shying away from the vivid portrayal of events that were part of this terrible moment in history, the author skillfully manages make the portrayal not overwhelm the young reader. The reader has a foothold (the characters' stories and their immediate context) in the larger historical moment. Finally the author is careful to portray compassionate and decent Armenians AND Turks. The author expands the reader's understanding of different religious and cultural experiences, not simply painting "good guys" and "bad guys." The terrible thing is the genocide. Those who acted with compassion, integrity, and courage on both sides are celebrated. In the end, they are who we care about. They are who we learn from. Yet again, Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch has created compelling fiction that addresses important issues, broadening the reader's understanding of the peoples of the world and their history. After reading Skrypuch's books, I believe that readers will take a personal interest in those peoples and their history.

Marsha Skrypuch is an excellent writer with the ability to draw a reader in and share an immensely personal story with courage and power. Her writing is simple but evocative, and she tackles serious subjects with great honesty and tenderness.Without meaning to, youth can learn immensely important historical facts while connecting with the past. These books are important reminders of events in history that must never be repeated.

This young adult novel is a must-read for adults of all ages. "Nobody's Child" transports the reader through time to another place and another culture with an ease that is only possible through meticulous research. The characters are as well-developed as the narration and setting are thorough. This sequel (or more accurately prequel) to "The Hunger" is another fascinating study in human nature. Marsha Skrypuch has an unusual talent for taking on tough human rights issues and creating stories as entertaining as they are thought-provoking.

I was lucky enough to read this book from galleys and have to say I believe it is Marsha Skrypuch's best book yet. The story, set during the Armenian genocide in the early years of the 20th century, is eye-opening. Skrypuch's style is rich with the detail and texture of the times and the story weaves a magic spell on the reader. A must read!