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Children of War: an anthology to support the children of Ukraine Kindle Edition
A future torn apart by war…
Adolescence lost to battle…
What becomes of those who lose their childhood to armed conflict?
In this anthology, a diverse group of authors from around the globe bring you a multi-genre collection of short stories about children trapped in war. Includes literary fiction, fantasy, historical fiction and memoir.
In diverse settings of fantasy worlds, Ancient Greece or India and even historical and modern-day Ukraine, explore the lives of children touched by warfare. Some go in search of healing, others are forced to walk in the darkness of guilt and remorse. Each story provides a glimpse of both the horrors witnessed and the potential for redemption. Through the lens of trauma, the authors of this anthology provide not only rays of hope but also powerful messages and much food for thought.
The stories in this collection have been crafted to honor those affected by the Russia-Ukraine conflict and support their healing in the future. No one's potential should be crippled because of trauma inflicted during their most impressionable years. And yet an entire generation of Ukrainians is threatened with just this outcome.
All proceeds of this anthology will be donated in perpetuity to Voices of Children Foundation in Ukraine or another similar charity.
Stories include:
Through Vira’s Eyes by MJ Krause Chivers
Not Dead, Just Sleeping by Darrah Steffen
A Child of Minidoka by Joan T. Seko
Jonah by C. Borden
The Prince and the Flute Player by C. Phillip
The Tarnished Key by Susan Stradiotto
A Mermaid’s Tears by J.C. Seal
The Dragon’s Demise by Daan Katz
The War Legacy by Nandita Pant Joshi
A Vampire’s Heart by I. Vélez
The Curse of Blood by Lauren Lee Merewether
Child of Destruction by Astrid V.J., USA Today Bestselling author
Through the Eyes of a Child by Pam Floyd
The Borrowed Life by Elena Shelest
The cover for this anthology was donated by Pallabi Pattanaik as a contribution toward this project.
This anthology includes illustrations by Ukrainian-American author-artist Elena Shelest.
Content Warning:
Due to the nature of the subject matter explored in this anthology, this book is not suitable for sensitive readers with past experiences of trauma. The authors have not shied away from the atrocities committed during wartime and how that affects children because we wanted to honor the experiences of this most vulnerable of population groups whose trauma so often is brushed under the carpet by the adults playing war games. This anthology is suitable for stable individuals 16+ who are willing to step out of their comfort zones to glimpse what is known about how children are affected by violent conflict, whether they are forced to flee their homes, witness atrocities, suffer injuries or lose loved ones.
Specific content warnings are included with the stories that are most likely to trigger a sensitive reader. These are: mention of suicide or suicidal thoughts: A Mermaid’s Tears, The Curse of Blood and The War Legacy; physical violence and torture as well as mention of sexual assault: The Dragon’s Demise; emotional violence: Child of Destruction. Each of these stories includes an individually tailored, detailed content warning.
- LanguageEnglish
- Publication dateAugust 24, 2022
- File size14.4 MB
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Editorial Reviews
Review
"This is a noble book that should be in everyone's library."
"Five weeping stars for Children of War, an anthology to benefit the Children of Ukraine."
"This anthology will touch your soul. Different genres, different authors, one message: let's not forget the children affected by war and do what we can to support them."
"These stories do not have happy endings, they are not stories of triumph, but they are stories of survival and the possibility of something brighter even through the darkest times... These stories do not shy away from the darker aspects of war, but they do deal with it gently and respectfully."
"Emotional and insightful"
"Powerful Reading to Benefit A Worthy Cause"
"Not only is this anthology for a good cause, it's a great read."
"Heart-wrenching but so important"
"Wonderful book, for an excellent cause! Be an Earth-angel & buy this book!"
Product details
- ASIN : B09W2CQSQF
- Publisher : New Wings Press
- Accessibility : Learn more
- Publication date : August 24, 2022
- Language : English
- File size : 14.4 MB
- Screen Reader : Supported
- Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
- X-Ray : Not Enabled
- Word Wise : Enabled
- Print length : 498 pages
- ISBN-13 : 978-9198744293
- Page Flip : Enabled
- Best Sellers Rank: #1,990,438 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
- #299 in Philanthropy & Charity (Kindle Store)
- #629 in World Literature Short Stories
- #1,153 in Short Story Anthologies & Collections
- Customer Reviews:
About the authors
Born and raised in the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, I have spent most of my youth daydreaming about becoming a vampire or having dinosaurs as pets, mainly Velociraptors. Yeah, I know, totally random. However, it wasn’t until I found out about Wattpad that those daydreams became stories to be shared with the world.
Most of my stories are paranormal and fantasy romances with hot guys and bad-mouthed chicks that have some kind of connection with my island paradise but I have ventured into other genres like horror and chick lit. All those writing experiments are only available in my Wattpad profile. Nonetheless, my favorite genre will always be romance. All those who have read my online works know that I like to add erotic scenes to my romances to spice the stories a bit.
In my free time I like to draw and paint. That’s my relaxation therapy.
LAUREN LEE MEREWETHER writes multi-genre romantic family sagas inspired by ancient places, legends, and myths. She loves to delve into the shadows of the past, spinning slow-burn, fade-to-black romantic narratives that merge the timeless passions of history with the mysteries of ancient mythologies. Her award-winning novels invite readers to explore the thrilling depths of legends, emotions, and humanity, spanning high-seas adventures to the splendors of ancient empires.
Lauren writes historical women's fiction, historical fantasy romance, and romantasy.
Her books contain adult themes, mild to moderate violence, and closed-door romance, and readers say you might need to keep a box of tissues handy to dry your eyes. Please note that while she has gone to great lengths to ensure certain subject matters are dealt with compassionately and respectfully, some subject matter in her books may be troubling for some readers.
Lauren loves a hot cup of tea, the Discovery Channel, daydreaming, pilates, and staying up late.
For more information about Lauren, see her upcoming books, go behind the scenes of her best sellers, and grab some special edition paperback copies, visit:
laurenleemerewether . com
or
llmbooks . com (for short)
Connect with Lauren on:
Facebook @llmbooks
Instagram @llmbooks
TikTok @llmbooks
BookBub
GoodReads
"I believe life is a curious and unpredictable adventure full of opportunities for personal growth. Trials can either enrich or destroy us. Either way, they change us. I believe what we learn during the angst of our life defines us as human."
Award-winning author, Miranda J. Chivers/MJ Krause-Chivers writes about faith, mental health and diversity.
Her fiction work contains characters who use their wits and faith to overcome challenging circumstances.
The author is a Canadian descendant of Mennonite refugees from Russian-occupied Ukraine (19234/24) and is a PTSD survivor. She has a professional background in social work and tourism; and is a parent and sibling of special needs adults.
When she isn't writing, the author is hiking, globe-trotting, or participating in local cultural events in the beautiful Niagara region with her family.
Please check out her books on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
AWARDS: “Unequally Yoked: Staying Committed to Jesus and Your Unbelieving Spouse” won the Silver Medal in the 2018 Readers' Favorite Award (Christian Biblical Counseling); 2019 Author's Academy Awards (Advice) Top Ten; 2019 Top Shelf Awards Finalist.
Katarina's Dark Shadow is the bronze medal winner of the 2021 historical fiction Global Book Awards.
Katarina's Dark Journey won the finalist ribbon for Historical Fiction in the 2023 Global Book Awards.
Children of War: an anthology, won the 2022 Readers' Favorites gold medal award. (first place: anthologies).
Susan Stradiotto is a USA Today Bestselling Author who crafts epic and urban fantasy stories featuring diverse characters and deep emotional arcs. With worlds that immerse readers in unique cultures and traditions not commonly explored in today's fantasy genre, her work invites readers to embark on journeys that are as rich in emotion as they are in lore. Susan draws inspiration from some of her favorite authors, including Jacqueline Carey, J.R. Ward, and Tasmyn Muir, whose bold storytelling and intricate character development influence her own writing.
In addition to her writing, Susan is a professional editor, certified by the University of Chicago, with a passion for perfecting the craft of storytelling. She hails from Minnesota but often dreams of warmer climates, where the sun is always shining. Whether she's creating complex epic fantasies or gritty urban worlds, Susan's stories are built to captivate, transport, and challenge readers at every turn.
Instagram: @susanstradiotto
Author Facebook page: @susanstradiotto_author
TikTok: @susanstradiotto
Newsletter: susanstradiotto dot com slash thesorcerersscroll
Award-winning and USA Today Bestselling Author, Astrid V.J. was born in South Africa. She is a trained social anthropologist and certified transformational life coach. She currently resides in Sweden with her husband and their two children. In early childhood, she showed an interest in reading and languages—interests which her family encouraged. Astrid started writing her first novel at age 12 and now writes fantasy in a variety of genres, exploring her passion for cultures and languages. When she isn’t writing, Astrid likes to read, take walks in nature, play silly games with her children, do embroidery, and play music.
Astrid writes transformation fiction: incorporating transformation principles in novels, rather than writing another self-help book. She loves exploring the human capacity for transformation and potential to achieve success in the face of adversity. Astrid is interested in minority group questions, considerations on social standards of beauty and the negative consequences these have, and would like to make the fantasy genre accessible to people of non-white, non-Christian backgrounds. Astrid feels the fantasy genre has become too restrictive with limited representations of race, ethnicity and culture. She seeks to explore other paths on this writing journey, incorporating her background in anthropology and psychology to create engaging experiences, which also provide food for thought on the diverse topics she finds most important. These include: racism, minority rights, cultural diversity, culture change, intolerance, humanity’s environmental impact, the representation of people on the autism spectrum in among the general populace, the human capacity for transformation, and much more.
C Phillip is a Mumbai-based, self-published author of two book series, one light novel and short stories. She writes action-packed historical fiction and fantasy books with a generous helping of romance, suspense and strong female leads. Apart from writing books, C Phillip is engaged in active research on women’s empowerment in ancient India, which she uses as a basis for creating credible, diverse, dynamic and multifaceted characters within an Indian premise.
Janina Carol (J.C.) Seal
I come from the beautiful city of Freiburg, at the foot of the Black Forest. I live in a small townhouse with my loving husband, my wonderful teenage daughter and my twenty year old tomcat. To earn a living, I work part-time as a technical assistant in cancer research. I didn't start writing until October 2018 but have always loved reading.
Perhaps you are wondering why someone from Germany writes in English? I still remember the first English book I ever read. When I was in the US as an exchange student at sixteen, I picked a random book in a public library and came across “Dragonsong” by Anne McCaffrey. It was the beginning of my passion for stories that go beyond the boundaries of the mortal world, and also the beginning of my love for a language so much more expressive than my own.
When I finally took the step from reader to author, the choice of language was not an issue.
Accompany me into my world of fantasy, adventure and mystery, paranormal and romance.
When I'm not writing or reading, I like to play computer games or watch crime series on television. I'm also on the parents' council of my daughter's school and a member of the garden club around the corner.
Elena Shelest immigrated to the U.S. from Ukraine at the age 15. She currently resides in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her family and pets.
Elena is an artist and a motivational blogger. Her works of fiction are filled with fantasy, romance, self-actualization, and lots of hope. She wishes to encourage her readers to look beyond what's possible and believe in everyday miracles.
Check her website ~ fiveminutediscovery dot com ~ for book updates, new blog posts, and to sign up for her weekly newsletter.
Joan T. Seko resides in Bellevue, Washington. She publishes articles in magazines, newspapers, and books.
Her Victorian Romance Fiction Series, Withers' Saga, includes Lady Dahlia's Story, Robin Fish Spymaster, Lord Samuel's Story, Lord Robin Withers the Horse Breeder, and Lord Hen Wildwind Beecham.
Her interests in the Holocaust and her Jewish friends led her to write Casha and A Bridge to Humanity. She is writing two more Holocaust stories When Will Freedom Come? and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Yellow Star, which will be published soon.
Joan's interest in all genres made her delve into writing Mirror Image, An Unexpected Inheritance, and Murder in Chinatown.
She decided to return to her Japanese heritage and wrote When the Nightingale Sings, Life of a Prostitute, Into the Secret Life of a Geisha, and The Wanderer Story of a Ronin.
She collaborated with thirteen renowned authors worldwide to write her nonfiction story for the Children of War Anthology book Child of Minidoka. All proceeds from the book are donated to the Voices of Children Foundation, Ukraine. The book received the Reader's Favorite Gold Medal Award for 2023.
Joan is eighty-seven years old and enjoys reading, writing, and volunteering for her community. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren are the joys of her existence. Her books can be purchased on Amazon and at the Kinokuniya Bookstore inside Uwajimaya Store in Seattle's International District.
Joan belongs to the Omoide Writing Group at the Washington Japanese Cultural & Community Center. The members have written and collected stories about their lives for five nonfiction children's books. They are busy writing Books 6 and 7. All the books are about the Japanese American way of life and are donated to schools to educate elementary students.
Joan would appreciate it if readers could place a review of her books on Amazon. Thank you.
Darrah Steffen is a Kansas native, now living in North Dakota with her husband, dog - Willow, and cat - Jasper. Rise of the Dragon Queen is her first book. She loves to write worlds with weird and new creatures.
Darrah is trained as a geologist and paleontologist - which plays into her worldbuilding. When she is not writing, she works as a museum educator. She is also an avid board gamer, enjoys playing music with her husband, and cuddling with her pets.
Author and poet Daan Katz writes Dark Fantasy with psychological thriller elements in a contemporary setting. His often disturbing stories are inspired by real life, which truly is stranger than fiction.
As someone living with multiple disabilities, both visible and invisible, it’s one of Katz’s missions to promote accessibility through his writing. His disabled characters are no helpless victims but strong people willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals.
Katz studied theology in Belgium, psychology at Utrecht University, and is a certified editor and proofreader. He is fluent in English and Dutch, speaks German and some French, and has a basic understanding of several other languages.
When he’s not writing, Katz escapes reality through his musical journeys into the Baroque era, singing the enchanting tenor arias of famous composers such as Bach, Handel and Purcell.
C. Borden is an avid reader and most enjoys the richness of fantasy and science fiction, which inspires her to write stories from her own imagination.
Drawing inspiration from the people and places that have touched her life, her works include lifelike characters, places readers wish they could visit, and an honest look at the struggle between good and evil. The baseline current through all her writing is the message of hope, no matter the obstacle, no matter how dark. While most of her books are not overtly Christian, elements of her faith are clear throughout each book and short story.
C. Borden is a wife, mother, and USAF Veteran. Beyond writing, she enjoys reading, traveling, gardening, and nature photography. When she’s not writing, she’s most likely enjoying the outdoors with friends and family, helping another author get their ideas on paper, or curled up with a good book from one of her favorite authors.
To follow C. Borden beyond Amazon, visit her website and be sure to subscribe to her monthly newsletter.
Pamela has been cultivating her skills in writing and drawing since she was able to grasp a pencil. Born in Massachusetts, she then relocated to the Baltimore/DC area when she was four years old. Her family is highly supportive of her interests and passions, being involved in theatre, art, writing, and wildlife conservation. Together, they live in a quaint town in Maryland where they dedicate their time to rescuing cats and helping local animal rescue foundations.
Mary Stewart, Tolkien, Poe, Laura Ingalls Wilder and Shakespeare - all the literary greats had her enamored with reading from a young age. She and her siblings would spend hours immersed in bookstores, reading each books. It came as no surprise when she began writing her own short stories as early as elementary school. Her talent for storytelling was further confirmed when one of her enemies admitted to being addicted to her work and wanted to know what she'd write next
Writing page turning stories has always come naturally and she tuned her skill through college and writing with other authors.
Currently featured to write with the extraordinary talents such as Astrid Vogel with the Children of War Anthology for charity.
She is currently spearheading a project to support the victims of unprovoked attacks on schools.
Her highly-anticipated novel contains an extremely diverse crew of characters all faced with the same quandary. Its release is set for this summer, and you can read a summary on her social media accounts.
She gives special thanks to both her husband and late parents.
You can follow her work and media:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pam_floyd__author
https://www.instagram.com/pam_floyd_author/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082010956348
Web page coming soon!
If you can dream it, you can do it.
Nandita's love for writing goes back to when she was a child. She wrote short stories and poems from a very young age and won several prizes for them at school level. She inherited the writing gene from both the maternal and paternal sides of her family. She loves strong female characters and men who support and fight for equality. She dreams of a world where people are known for their individuality rather than their race, color, caste, religion, gender and sexual orientation. The War Legacy is her first published work.
Customer reviews
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Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers find this anthology to be a wonderful collection of heart-rending short stories, with one review noting its range from memoirs to magical realism. Moreover, the book provides valuable insight, with one customer highlighting its thought-provoking glimpses, while another mentions the money going toward a good cause. Additionally, customers appreciate the anthology's focus on supporting children of Ukraine, the author diversity, and its emotional impact, with one review noting how it engenders compassion and empathy.
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Customers praise the heart-rending short stories in this anthology, with one customer noting its range from memoirs to magical realism.
"...Ranging from memoirs to to magical realism, to fantasy to sci fi, from historical to contemporary to futuristic, these stories examine a wide range..." Read more
"The War Legacy is a beautiful short story (in the Children of War Anthology) about the often unseen heartache that happens to the family and friends..." Read more
"This anthology! So many beautifully, heart-rending short stories!..." Read more
"...These stories will make you shiver, will make you reflect, and some of them will give you hope. Let's write against war. Let's read for peace...." Read more
Customers find the book insightful, with one review highlighting its thought-provoking glimpses and interesting information about each author.
"...And “The Dragon’s Demise” All powerful and thought provoking glimpses into the lasting effects war and violence have on the innocent...." Read more
"...Still, I read each story. I found the information on each author most interesting also and a valuable insight into the stories they selected for the..." Read more
"Each of the stories in this anthology brings a unique perspective to the issue of children affected by war - whether they are set in a fantasy world..." Read more
"...I was overjoyed to find the stories engaging and impactful. The first selection completely captivated me. I found many of the stories impacted me...." Read more
Customers appreciate the book's charitable purpose, with one mentioning that the money raised goes toward helping children in Ukraine.
"...The best thing I can say is that at least the money is going toward a good cause. For that reason, I can't advise you not to buy it...." Read more
"Phenomenal and for charity!..." Read more
"Powerful Reading to Benefit A Worthy Cause..." Read more
"Excellent job honoring a worthy cause..." Read more
Customers appreciate the anthology's focus on supporting Ukrainian children, with one customer noting its unique approach to helping real children.
"Children of War is a multigenre anthology to support the children of Ukraine...." Read more
"...The anthology is also unique in providing support to real children affected by the conflict in Ukraine." Read more
"Children of War: an anthology to support the children of Ukraine, is a wonderful collection of stories...." Read more
"an awesome cause to support and heartbreaking stories..." Read more
Customers appreciate the diversity of authors in the anthology, with one noting how each brings something special to the collection.
"...This anthology will touch your soul. Different genres, different authors, one message: let's not forget the children affected by war and do what we..." Read more
"First of all, what an incredible anthology of stories. Talented writers bring their unique style to benefit children in need...." Read more
"...Each author brings something special to the anthology...." Read more
Customers find the book emotionally engaging, with one mentioning how it engenders compassion and empathy.
"...The aim is to engender compassion and empathy, not shock and horror...." Read more
"...The authors bring their beautiful, heartfelt, heart-wrenching, and unique stories to the reader. I highly recommend it!" Read more
"Emotional and insightful read!..." Read more
Customers find the book readable, with one describing it as a great compilation.
"...I have greatly enjoyed reading this bundle and I cannot recommend it enough...." Read more
"...is laudable, but the care that went into this book make it a great compilation, notwithstanding the good cause...." Read more
"Phenomenal and for charity!..." Read more
Customers appreciate the book's style, with one noting its unique approach and another describing the writing as beautiful.
"This anthology! So many beautifully, heart-rending short stories!..." Read more
"...Talented writers bring their unique style to benefit children in need...." Read more
"...The authors bring their beautiful, heartfelt, heart-wrenching, and unique stories to the reader. I highly recommend it!" Read more
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Moving Anthology with a Great Cause
Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on November 27, 2022A variety of poignant stories from a group of excellent story tellers. These stories focus on the ones most often left out of the stories heroes and war glory - the children caught in the crossfire, torn from their home and families, forced to grow up far before their time, witness to horrors no one should see. The pregnant mothers left behind devastated by what they see on the news. Ranging from memoirs to to magical realism, to fantasy to sci fi, from historical to contemporary to futuristic, these stories examine a wide range of experiences and realities, but perhaps the most important thing they have in common is a thread of hope.
These stories do not have happy endings, they are not stories of triumph, but they are stories of survival and the possibility of something brighter even through the darkest times. Stories that show the resiliency of children and their ability to continue even when deeply scarred physically and/or mentally. Stories that celebrate the helpers, because there are always helpers. There are always those who are willing to sacrifice and risk self to help others. These stories do not shy away from the darker aspects of war, but they do deal with it gently and respectfully. The aim is to engender compassion and empathy, not shock and horror. These stories can be a difficult read, and many will haunt your thoughts for long after you finished them.
- Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2022The War Legacy is a beautiful short story (in the Children of War Anthology) about the often unseen heartache that happens to the family and friends of loved ones who are left behind by the travesties of war. This story gives readers an insider’s view into the struggles and hardships of those who are forced to pick up the pieces of their lives after their loved ones have been taken from them through war and violence. It sheds light on the pain and suffering that affects those left behind, and encourages them to find and use their voices as they fight to survive the aftermath of loss. This story also shows the power of love and perseverance in helping those heal from loss and heartache.
Overall, this story reminds us that, “No matter which side wins in a war, all parties ultimately lose.” It is the authors hope that we will come together as a united front to help those who have lost loved ones as they navigate through the pain—coming alongside them, championing for them on their journey.
- Reviewed in the United States on August 24, 2022This anthology! So many beautifully, heart-rending short stories!
I enjoyed all of them, but the ones that touched my heart were “The Prince and the Flute Player”, Jonah,” and “Through Vira’s Eyes” because I felt a connection to the stories which made them so much more endearing to me.
Others that stood out for me:
“A Child of Minidoka”
“The Borrowed Life”
And
“The Dragon’s Demise”
All powerful and thought provoking glimpses into the lasting effects war and violence have on the innocent. The fact all proceeds support charity makes this even better.
- Reviewed in the United States on August 24, 2022Children of War is a multigenre anthology to support the children of Ukraine. All proceeds of this anthology will be donated in perpetuity to the Voices of Children Foundation in Ukraine.
This anthology will touch your soul. Different genres, different authors, one message: let's not forget the children affected by war and do what we can to support them.
I have greatly enjoyed reading this bundle and I cannot recommend it enough. It's amazing to see so many people coming together helping out where they can. These stories will make you shiver, will make you reflect, and some of them will give you hope. Let's write against war. Let's read for peace. Let's help.
- Reviewed in the United States on October 25, 2022First of all, what an incredible anthology of stories. Talented writers bring their unique style to benefit children in need. It was a treat to read short stories in genres I may not always choose to read in. This book brought up many emotions and I would advise taking the trigger warnings to heart. Still, I read each story. I found the information on each author most interesting also and a valuable insight into the stories they selected for the book.
- Reviewed in the United States on August 29, 2022Each of the stories in this anthology brings a unique perspective to the issue of children affected by war - whether they are set in a fantasy world or the past or present. Each author brings something special to the anthology.
The anthology is also unique in providing support to real children affected by the conflict in Ukraine.
- Reviewed in the United States on November 21, 2022I love that these stories are across a whole lot of different genres, with something for every mood, and I will continue dipping into them and being surprised by yet another great one.
An effort like this, when people come together to do something instead of just talking of injustice, is laudable, but the care that went into this book make it a great compilation, notwithstanding the good cause.
Don't even think about it, just get it.
- Reviewed in the United States on September 6, 2022I got this to support children who are suffering and need help. I was overjoyed to find the stories engaging and impactful. The first selection completely captivated me. I found many of the stories impacted me. War is a horrible thing and it’s impact on those most vulnerable can be lasting. Finding new authors to follow while supporting a great cause, a wonderful combination.
Top reviews from other countries
- DLReviewed in Canada on January 8, 2023
5.0 out of 5 stars Poignant book!!
This book is a collection of Wonderful and Poignant stories.
Some of the stories were emotionally difficult to read and had me crying.
But, War is difficult and the stories need to be shared.
- Fallen AngelReviewed in Germany on August 24, 2022
5.0 out of 5 stars Five weeping stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 for Children of War, an anthology to benefit the Children of Ukraine.
This anthology is the hardest book I ever reviewed. Each of the stories clenched my heart, raised goosebumps or brought me to tears in their own way. Each story is born from traumatic experience of either the author themselves, or passed on by parents or grandparents.
With exception of one shocking memoir, these experiences have been expertly wrapped in fictional settings. Still, the pictures they paint make me shudder in fear and hiss in anger at the aggressors responsible for all the lives they deliberately destroyed. Nevertheless, these stories also carry a glimpse of hope. Let this anthology carry the spark of hope into the lives of the children who need it 💖
I will not leave separate reviews for each of the 14 stories this time, but let one goosebump-evoking quote from each story speak for themselves.
1. Through Vira’s Eyes by MJ Krause-Chivers: ~~ “Then I guess I’ll keep going,” Max says and he steps on the gas. A moment later, a thundering, pulsing burst sprays along the front of the bus. It’s followed by a sharp snap and a dull thud. The front window splinters into a giant white spider web. A red splatter forms on the inside and Max falls against the steering wheel. ~~
2. Not Dead, Just Sleeping by Darrah Steffen: ~~ Corryn sucks in a breath through clenched teeth. The words tug at her memory. Her mother’s voice saying a phrase in the same language. The language of her childhood. Corryn echoes it, “Merti nie, sutu gusa.” The man looks at her, his eyes wide with shock. He pushes his scraggly hair back from his eyes. “Just sleeping, huh?” “My mam said that nothing is truly dead…” She draws her brows together, and finishes, “as long as someone remembers.” ~~
3. A Child of Minidoka by Joan T. Seko: ~~ Once upon a time, I was a child of a place called “Minidoka.” […] I pray that no other peoples of our great nation must go through the trials of proving their loyalty. Everyone in America should be treated equally without harsh discrimination. We are a country of diverse nationalities united to strengthen our nation. As the saying goes: “United we stand, divided we fall.” ~~
4. Jonah by C. Borden: ~~ Jonah, what you survived as a child was simply too much for your young mind to handle, so it…” “It broke,” Jonah said, his face ashen as he allowed himself to genuinely consider her explanation. ~~
5. The Prince and The Flute Player by C. Phillip: ~~ He pressed his palms over his ears in a weak attempt to drown out the pitiful cries of the fallen. Dread filled him. He wondered how soon he would become demon fodder. ~~
6. The Tarnished Key by Susan Stradiotto: ~~ I learned to use words and to sing Sable’s song. Its tiny hand clasped my own and smiled. I looked down. The rounds of Sable’s body reminded me of the one who hid me here before the scary ones came. Before I hid in my holes. ~~
7. A Mermaid’s Tears by J.C. Seal: ~~ I have already accepted my fate, and so should you. I will try to hold on, for you, for my people, for my country. But when I’m gone, go! Live, love, have a family. Do not dwell in the past. I know it hurts, but the pain will fade with time. Keep my memory alive, and my death will not be in vain. ~~
8. The Dragon’s Demise by Daan Katz: ~~ Somehow, I managed not to throw up. My hands cradled my privates. My body felt strange. Rubbery. My head floated in the mists of oblivion. I had no voice, no name, no emotions. Nothing. ~~
9. The War Legacy by Nandita Pant Joshi: ~~ Would I be able to raise both my kids without spiraling into a void? Could I be a mother first and a widow second? Would I ever be able to honor my dearest husband who lay dead at a site unknown to me, while I lay here? Anxiety for the future engulfed me. What if my grief rubbed off on my kids? ~~
10. A Vampire’s Heart by I. Vélez: ~~ You will be my perfect weapon once you control your ability.” “But I do not wish to be a murderer,” Akibel whined, unable to look away from the carnage surrounding him. “Nonsense. Berserkers are not murderers; they use the power of their fury to make them stronger. […] You will be my most cherished warrior.” ~~
11. The Curse of Blood by Lauren Lee Merewether: ~~ “Whether you can see it or not, there is always hope.” Her voice was subdued. “There is always a reason to live.” Inachus chewed on his cut lip, the blood embittering his tongue. “What hope do you see for me?” She kissed the top of his head. “I see many futures, yet I also see nothing if you walk off the cliff in the dark. You have a chance at happiness, Inachus. ~~
12. Child of Destruction by Astrid V.J.: ~~ Death stank. It combined the stench of an outhouse with smells from the butchery, and all of it was cloaked in the odor of rust. She would come to know that smell in the years that followed. It would become the stench of her waking nightmares, the perfume of her living hell. And it would haunt her for the rest of her life. ~~
13. Through the Eyes of a Child by Pam Floyd: ~~ Daniela only nodded as other adults rushed in to help the frail-like woman in case Daniela misbehaved again. She was sure she would be punished and she stared down at her feet feeling lost. No mother or father to protect or care for her and nobody to be with her. There was only this cold woman here to ruin Daniela’s life. ~~
14. The Borrowed Life by Elena Shelest: ~~ “But by restraining your own anger and acting with honor, even with your worst enemy, you’ve proven yourself to be worthy of being my successor. Turning pain into action unlocked your gift. Now wield it with wisdom.” ~~
- Cheryl PhillipReviewed in India on August 28, 2022
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful heart-rending stories. Gorgeous artwork. Excellent book.
Five-star read!!! I loved all 14 stories in this collection. However, the below listed ones deserve a special mention because I was completely captivated by the plotlines, characters and world building. (Please note all the trigger warnings included in the book as well.)
A Child of Minidoka by Joan T. Seko - If you only want to read one single story in this anthology, then this is it. True story by the author of her life as a 4 y/o Japanese American in the camp called Minidoka during WWII. Highly recommend. Beautiful, heart-rending story. Captures the true essence of this anthology and deserves to be read by all.
Through the Eyes of a Child by Pam Floyd - Another remarkable story. Fictional characters but real world premise. Narrates all that is currently happening in Ukraine. Tear-jerking, impactful, candid and wonderfully written. Highly recommend.
Jonah by C. Borden - Superbly written story. A faithful representation of the life-long, debilitating effects of PTSD and the kind of treatment and support that the patient needs to heal. The ending will make any reader smile. Highly recommend.
The Curse of Blood by Lauren Lee Merewether - Based in ancient Greece, this story narrates the true horror of how children were made to undergo harsh and often merciless training to mould them into future warriors. Powerful, tragic and incredibly well-researched. Highly recommend.