Reasons to Read:
1. The movie comes out in November, and it made TheCelebrityCafe list of top 10 book-to-movie transformations for 2013, starring Hailee Steinfeld, Abigail Breslin, and Harrison Ford (check out the trailer at the bottom).
2. The book, which came out almost 30 years ago, is a science fiction classic. Not only is it still popular (and relevant), it’s an addicting, exciting adventure.
3. There are a total of 24 related books, or at least another solid year of reading.
Page Count: 352 (paperback)
For Fans of: Science Fiction, “Divergent” by Veronica Roth, Star Wars series, “Star Trek” movies, adventure/action
No-Spoilers Plot:
Since two attacks on Earth by an insect-like alien race known as Buggers, humans have been preparing with a third invasion by sending their best and brightest children to Battle School in space for training. Andrew “Ender” Wiggin, an unusual third child, was born exactly for this purpose. A strategic genius, Ender is sent to Battle School at 6, where adults in charge make sure he is isolated and lonely. But as Ender excels in zero-gravity, winning battle games and leading an army of other children, it becomes clear he may be humanity’s best hope against the Buggers.
The Long and Short:
“Ender’s Game” is brutally violent and explicit, which is made even worse because it’s written about children. It’s also brilliant writing that manages to make tactical strategy fascinating and builds completely real characters in a military setting. Card’s imagery is so fantastic, reading the book is like watching a movie (which is why I recommend reading it before November!). This is not just a scifi book about cool futuristic gadgets; it’s a carefully planned, powerfully meaningful adventure.
Every Thursday, I’ll be posting a new book recommendation, aiming for light beach reading material. Got a recommendation for me? Response to the book? Comment below!
Photo Courtesy of Amazon