The Winter War

The Winter War is a fantastic window into the little-known war-within-a-war between Finland and the Soviet Union in 1940. Told from the perspective of Marko, the fourteen-year-old polio survivor, the story captures the heroic defense of Finland from the Soviet aggressor. Small yet defiant Finland held out against overwhelming odds long enough to secure their independence, if not all their territory. This story is the kind of book I would have loved as a young reader (I loved it as an older reader!). It's real, action-packed, and serious, all at the same time. The main character Marko is challenged, both inside and out, but shows courage that really makes a difference. The author captures the hardship, danger, unbelievable horror, and yes, boredom of war. All without sensationalizing or romanticizing. Recommended for all young readers, particularly boys who want more than the typical slow-paced historical fiction offerings.

William Durbin's THE WINTER WAR tells of Marko, who volunteers as a messenger on Finland's front line when the Soviet Union invades its neighbor in 1939. His contributions will help change the face of conflict in a war where defeat seems initially inevitable.

This one has everything. Intrigue. Adventure. Young people caught up in a treacherous war. But the author brings poignancy and empathy to his characters both young men and young women...and some in disguise so you can't tell which. What makes it great is that there is so much good history packed into this "young adults" novel that once kids read it, they'll know more about one of the most pivotal aspects of the twentieth century than do 99 percent of America adults. The stirring and patriotic story of a tiny country with very few people facing down the armed might and steel fist of one of the most vicious, totalitarian regimes in world history. (Hint: it wasn't Hitler.) Especially good for places where young people and adults live with snow and things like cross-country skiing for a good part of the year. Highly recommended...by me!