The Always War

By Margaret Haddix

Pages: 197

Published by Simon and Schuster

★★

By Mel

  When I was younger, Haddix was one of my favorite authors. I read this series called the Shadow Children by her when I was in fifth grade. That was my favorite series for awhile. So I found this book and it sounded like a great story. But, as I began reading it I was very disappointed. The idea was good but I did not enjoy Haddix's writing style. She wasn't descriptive enough, and I'm pretty sure she writes for younger readers (which explains why I loved her when I was younger, and don't anymore). Maybe if I was still in fifth grade I'd like it. But for now, I suggest you don't read it unless you are younger.

Anyways, this book was about a war known as The Always War. It has been going on for so long that even grandparents don't remember a time before it. But, one day Gideon Thrall is one stage to receive an award for bravery during the war. When he runs off stage saying he doesn't deserve the award, people are bewildered. Including Tessa, a normal girl who happens to live in the apartment next to Gideon. One night she follows this mysterious stranger and soon finds herself in a rouge plane and going into enemy territory. Soon Tessa and Gideon discover a secret that shakes the whole foundation of everything they have believed their whole life. Will they bring the truth to light? Will anyone believe them?

So, as you can see, it sounds like an okay book but when I read it, it wasn't that good. My sister Val just read the back cover and knew the ending. Of course she had to tell me it before I even finished the first page. That also kind of ruined the story for me. But if you feel the need to read it anyways, let me warn you: the book doesn't get any better towards the end.