The Horn Book Guide

BIOGRAPHIES

Humphreys, Jessica Dee , Chikwanine, Michel

Child Soldier: When Boys and Girls Are Used in War

48 pp. | Kids Can | September, 2015 | Trade ISBN 978-1-77138-126-0 $17.95

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Claudia Dávila. This sophisticated graphic memoir is an important and accessible testimony by Chikwanine, who at age five was kidnapped by rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo and forced to be a child solider. The panels ably contrast Michel's happy early years, his horrific captivity, his escape, and the future time when his family members become political refugees. Excellent back matter includes action ideas. Websites.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt