They Call Us Enemy, by George Takei

 

The graphic novel "They Call Us Enemy" is about the life of a young boy who grew up in a Japanese concentration camp during the time of WW2. The novel describes George, the protagonist, life while living in the concentration camp. He describes his childhood while growing up in these concentration camps, and the hardships he had to endure. He also talks about his ignorance to the situation due to only being a child, and how his parents had to endure most of the hardships. Overall, the graphic novel portrays George's life as a child growing up in a Japanese concentration camp under the false pretensions of being an "alien enemy" only for having a Japanese bloodline.

I personally LOVED this book, it really gives you a lot to think about. It talks about the issues and racism going on at the time, and compares it to recent event such as the Muslim countries immigration ban. I think They Call Us Enemy, by George Takei, also gives us, readers, an important insight to what life was in a concentration camp, and the pain these people had to endure. I'm not going to lie, it's a very emotional novel, I did in fact cry. However, I believe the message of persistence that is seen throughout the book is amazing, it really touched me as a child of immigrant parents. Not to mention the art style is AMAZING! Overall, I really enjoyed the novel, and I would absolutely recommend this book, 10/10!

Reviewed by Initials, Grade 10

Glendale Central Library 

Dance of Thieves, by Mary E. Pearson

 

In this novel, the first in the duology by Mary E. Pearson, mystery and romance are explored in the fantastical world world in Pearson's separate series, The Remnant. Set in the same world but with new characters, this book explores the dynamic between Jase and Kazi. Jase just inherited his family's "company," a crime family determined to defend their homeland. Kazi is part of the esteemed Rahtan, the Queen's personal guards, tasked with the responsibility of defining the borders and ensuring her Queen's people are safe. Jase and Kazi must work towards their conflicting goals as they become close friends, and possibly more, fighting against obstacles and each other.

Dance of Thieves, by Mary E. Pearson, l explores a world already created in the book series The Remnant, but readers don't need to have read those to enjoy this novel. It has diverse world-building that helps readers perfectly imagine the land it is set in. Also, the characters have strong personalities, often clashing with each other in a way that any reader will appreciate. These characters follow an enemies-to-lovers storyline, so anybody looking for a romantic fantasy with swords or danger with thoroughly enjoy this book. And while it is over a few hundred pages, this book is a great read that makes you think about the plot twists, and worry over the story's outcome.

Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 12

Montrose Library