  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 06/01/2017 Fans of Children of Exile (2016) won’t be disappointed in this sequel: it’s just as thoughtful, swift-paced, and cleverly plotted. Haddix further develops characters by changing the narrator to outspoken Edwy, a contrary rascal who has always teased Rosi for her prim and proper ways. The end of the first title had Rosi and two younger children trying to escape from a violent outbreak in Cursed Town; here we begin with Edwy being smuggled into Refuge City, where he lives with an older brother and sister he didn’t know existed. The plot twists are multiple, exciting, and completely logical, and seeing Rosi through Edwy’s eyes brings to light additional facets. Edwy finds he’s constantly worried about and desperately missing Rosi, so he uses his often negative character traits (lying, stubbornness, aggression) to find and win allies that will help him save Rosi and the children. An excellent dystopian adventure for tweens that avoids graphic violence while bringing up issues of social justice and prejudice. The cliff-hanger ending guarantees another title in the series.HIGH-DEMAND BACKSTORY: An author tour should help keep Haddix’s latest series highly visible to its dedicated audience. - Copyright 2017 Booklist. School Library Journal - 09/01/2017 Gr 4–7—This highly anticipated sequel to Children of Exile will not disappoint. Fans eager to learn more about Edwy will be delighted that he narrates, giving a fuller picture of himself and his family. Alongside Edwy, readers learn more about the war and the Freds. A new setting is introduced, Refuge City, a futuristic metropolis complete with skyscrapers, bustling sidewalks, electronic scanners, cameras, and the occasional flying car. A master of suspense and cliff-hanger chapter endings, Haddix always delivers more than an action-filled story. She permeates the pages with messages about seeing beyond first impressions and risking one's life for others, making this a captivating read that is ripe for book discussions. While enjoyable as a stand-alone novel, it would be beneficial to read the first volume in advance. As this sequel wraps up, kids will once again be clinging to the edges of their seats anxious for the conclusion of the trilogy. VERDICT A masterful science fiction series with signature Haddix suspense and heart, this installment is not-to-be-missed.—Beth Parmer, New Albany Elementary Library, OH - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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