Samantha finds herself torn by her loyalty to her two brothers, one a soldier recently returned from the war in Vietnam and the other a war protester.
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Book Description
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal
Grade 4-6-Readers are given a glimpse of the year 1968 through 11-year-old Samantha Morgan's sensibilities. Her older brother has just returned home from a tour of duty in Vietnam, and her younger brother is a war protestor. The brief story attempts to convey the deep commitments held by many people during this time. However, the plot is overwhelmed by the purposeful insertion of details of late '60s life styles. Sam wears blue jeans, and her brother's girlfriend wears platform shoes and short skirts. The characters have long, straight hair. Star Trek is all the rage. Obviously written for a purpose, this book might find a use as a curriculum support, but its transparent intent and less-than-exciting style will blunt its impact.
Susan Middleton, LaJolla Country Day School, CA
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Susan Middleton, LaJolla Country Day School, CA
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Gr. 4-6. Antle's sensitive portrayal of the effects the Vietnam War has on one American family provides vivid insight into a turbulent historical period. Twelve-year-old Samantha Morgan's brother Mitch has just returned from Vietnam, but his homecoming is marred by protesters' ugly denunciations and by outspoken opposition to the war voiced by another brother, 16-year-old Emmett. Mitch's disquieting behavior and inability to discuss his war experiences, coupled with constant quarreling with Emmett, are so upsetting that Samantha fears her family will never mend. It's a chance encounter with a disabled veteran at a "die-in" that helps Samantha better understand the tough choices her brothers have made. When Mitch decides to re-enlist, readers will share Samantha's anger, frustration, and fear. Antle includes many details about life in 1968, some of which seem amusingly current--platform shoes, "Star Trek," miniskirts, and peace signs. However, the book's palpable tension and the brothers' emotionally wrenching arguments are what will move readers the most and perhaps lead them into discussion of present-day U.S. policies on military intervention. Chris Sherman
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