Tor Books - 1985
Reading Level: 10+ Number of Pages: 324 Genre: Science Fiction
Summary: Ender is taken to battle school in space. He has been specially chosen to save the human race from aliens colloquially known as "buggers." In space he learns to be brutal; he learns how to win. His fighting skills are tested by mock battles in zero-gravity, as well as a computer desk-game. Ender becomes a commander, and his fleet of misfit students becomes unbeatable in the rankings. The deskgame, designed to adapt to each student, behaves erratically when Ender uses it, inventing worlds and creating people from his memory. As Ender progresses, he eventually is used to launch an assault on the alien homeworld. Ender is devastated that he has been tricked and used, and travels a long time before he can live with the mass xenocide he caused.
"From now on the enemy is more clever than you. From now on the enemy is stronger than you. From now on you are always about to lose."
My Impressions: This book fascinates me even now. The elements of literary analysis are all present, but most readers (including myself) are instantly captivated by the dramatic telling of the story and of Ender's struggle.
Parents' Guide: There exists some cursing, and also some bawdy jokes. Ender is brought to drastic means to win battles in the battle room, and resorts to the same drastic means when he is physically attacked, brutally injuring kids who try to hurt him.
Recommendations: This book is excellent! Even people who don't normally read for fun will find enjoyment in this book. I suggest giving this book to any kid who has expressed dissatisfaction with reading, and give them an awesome story to turn them around.
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