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Children of War: an anthology to support the children of Ukraine Kindle Edition

4.7 out of 5 stars 62 ratings

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.

Due to its large file size, this book may take longer to download
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Editorial Reviews

Review

What Amazon and Goodreads readers are saying:

"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
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 out of 5 stars 62 ratings

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Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
62 global ratings

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Customers 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.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

10 customers mention "Story quality"10 positive0 negative

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

5 customers mention "Insight"5 positive0 negative

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

4 customers mention "Benefit"4 positive0 negative

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

4 customers mention "Support"4 positive0 negative

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

3 customers mention "Author diversity"3 positive0 negative

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

3 customers mention "Empathy"3 positive0 negative

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

3 customers mention "Readability"3 positive0 negative

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

3 customers mention "Style"3 positive0 negative

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

Moving Anthology with a Great Cause
5 out of 5 stars
Moving Anthology with a Great Cause
"Live your life as if it was borrowed, so that when the time comes to give it back, you could say that it was put to good use."⠀ Elena Shelest, Children of War: The Borrowed Life⠀ ⠀ 📕 The War Legacy is a gripping Literary Fiction about a family's long term trauma from a civil war. It was heartbreaking but also full of hope and healing. The story follows a young widow through her recollection of the loss of her husband, a freedom fighter in a fictional city that resembles Ukraine's war torn landscape of today. ⠀ ⠀ 🇺🇦 All proceeds of Children of War go to Voices of Children, Ukraine in support of their work to provide counseling and art therapy to children affected by war trauma. Today is the six month anniversary of the war in Ukraine and Ukraine's Independence Day. ⠀ ⠀ 📖 Each of the stories in this anthology are written from the perspective of children who experience the horrors of War up close. They are haunting but hopeful and remind us that each person affected by war has a story to be told.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on November 27, 2022
    A 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.
    3 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2022
    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 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.
    One person found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on August 24, 2022
    This 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.
    One person found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on August 24, 2022
    Children 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.
    3 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on October 25, 2022
    First 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.
    2 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on August 29, 2022
    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 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.
    One person found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on November 21, 2022
    I 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.
    2 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on September 6, 2022
    I 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.
    2 people found this helpful
    Report

Top reviews from other countries

  • DL
    5.0 out of 5 stars Poignant book!!
    Reviewed in Canada on January 8, 2023
    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 Angel
    5.0 out of 5 stars Five weeping stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 for Children of War, an anthology to benefit the Children of Ukraine.
    Reviewed in Germany on August 24, 2022
    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 Phillip
    5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful heart-rending stories. Gorgeous artwork. Excellent book.
    Reviewed in India on August 28, 2022
    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.

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