This harrowing and engrossing book begins in Lesai, a poor country in Africa. In one violence-torn village, Yusulu tribe warriors storm into the home of teenage Kaninda and his family. These fierce men gun down his mom, dad, and little sister, leaving Kaninda to die. But Kaninda somehow is left alive. He is found and "saved" by an organization called God's Force, which is a lot like the Red Cross. Kaninda is brought to a new family and a new home in England. That's where his new life and adventures begin.

However, this new life is not the one Kaninda would choose for himself. He wants to return to his home country, to seek revenge and protect his family honor. He returns to Lesai every day in his thoughts, dreams, and memories, so why can't he go in life? He feels imprisoned in the new home. However, Kaninda knows how he should behave according to the dictates of his family and his tribe. He stays silent like a true soldier and plans his escape.

Things get more complicated for Kaninda every day. At school, Kaninda meets a boy from the rebel tribe! Then, the first time he tries to escape, he gets caught! Will Kaninda be able to escape? Will the arrival of the boy from the rebel tribe change him? Read this book to find out!

I liked this book because it gave detailed descriptions of what war is like as well as what conditions must be like in poor countries in Africa. It made me think about what I would have done if I were Kaninda. If you want an exciting book to read, read LITTLE SOLDIER!

   --- Reviewed by Ashley, Reading Diva


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