Card, Orson Scott

Average customer rating:

Surprisingly good...
Ender's Game review
Why did no one give me this book years ago?
A valuable read for all ages
Ender's Game (Ender Quartet) Audiobook

Ender's Game (Ender, Book 1)
Orson Scott Card
Manufacturer: Tor Science Fiction
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0812550706

New York Times

Intense is the word for Ender's Game. Aliens have attacked Earth twice and almost destroyed the human species. To make sure humans win the next encounter, the world government has taken to breeding military geniuses -- and then training them in the arts of war... The early training, not surprisingly, takes the form of 'games'... Ender Wiggin is a genius among geniuses; he wins all the games... He is smart enough to know that time is running out. But is he smart enough to save the planet?

Book Description

Winer of the Hugo and Nebula AwardsIn order to develop a secure defense against a hostile alien race's next attack, government agencies breed child geniuses and train them as soldiers. A brilliant young boy, Andrew "Ender" Wiggin lives with his kind but distant parents, his sadistic brother Peter, and the person he loves more than anyone else, his sister Valentine. Peter and Valentine were candidates for the soldier-training program but didn't make the cut-young Ender is the Wiggin drafted to the orbiting Battle School for rigorous military training.Ender's skills make him a leader in school and respected in the Battle Room, where children play at mock battles in zero gravity. Yet growing up in an artificial community of young soldiers Ender suffers greatly from isolation, rivalry from his peers, pressure from the adult teachers, and an unsettling fear of the alien invaders. His psychological battles include loneliness, fear that he is becoming like the cruel brother he remembers, and fanning the flames of devotion to his beloved sister. Is Ender the general Earth needs? But Ender is not the only result of the genetic experiments. The war with the Buggers has been raging for a hundred years, and the quest for the perfect general has been underway for almost as long. Ender's two older siblings are every bit as unusual as he is, but in very different ways. Between the three of them lie the abilities to remake a world. If, that is, the world survives.

Customer Reviews:

Surprisingly good..........2007-06-23

I read very little science fiction as typically I am more drawn to fantasy or horror titles. I picked this book up on a recommendation from a friend and boy am I glad I did. Card not only managed to draw me into his world, but was able to genuinely catch me off-guard with the ending of the book which, unfortunately, doesn't happen very often. His portrayal of Ender is deep and meaningful and indeed, drives the story itself. The premise of the story is exciting and reveals the authors deep understanding and identification with the human condition. Additionally, there is a message here, rather profoundly delivered, that manages to provide allegory without venturing into the pretentious or preachy trap that many other "books with messages" tend to fall into.

All in all, Ender's Game will provide you with a story that is deep, engaging, entertaining and touching with none of the irritating stuff that clutters otherwise decent story lines in this genre. In short, it's everything you love about science fiction (and indeed, books in general) with none of the stuff you hate. Highly recommended.

Ender's Game review.......2007-06-14

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card

Review by Wade Rediger

"I've watched through his eyes, I've listened through his ear, and I tell you he's the one. Or at least as close as we're going to get."

Ender Wiggins is 7 years old. Taken from home, surrounded by enemies, impossible odds, and no hope. After all he is Earth's last hope. Although, young and a `third', he soars to the top of his battle training. Always finishing his superiors' orders and making up the rules as he goes. Though, time is of the essence and an alien `buggers' invasion looms over Earth. Ender, the wonder child, is put to the test. He is predestined to lead Earth's defense and retaliation attack against the `buggers'.

The entire book, every page, was truly entrancing. Yet, I won't spoil it for you, but the ending is what separates this book, what makes it better than all the other sci-fi books out there. It is ingenious, unusual, and different, but it draws you in and you reread the ending for days, just to take it in. The twist of what happens to Earth and what becomes of Ender is shocking and unexpected to a new level that I have never read in a book before.

Ender's Game is by far the best book I have ever read. The details, dialogue, visuals, and sensory Scott Card uses forms an remarkable bond between you and the characters, especially Ender and his family. You learn to love ender, learn to feel his world, and eventually learn to believe in him. Scott Card makes you hate the characters Ender hates, and love those he loves. I felt close to Ender because he reminded me of any other regular child and even of me as I was when little.

I gained a personal connection and relationship to the main characters because each character resembles common personality traits that everyone has. You feel as though you are right in the story involved in the plot. You want to reach out and touch the characters. Scott Card bridges the gap from reality to imagination.

Ender's Game reminds us that our future, our hopes for earth always lies with the youth; they control the balances of power. More importantly Scott Card emphasizes the theory throughout the book that death not being an end, but rather a beginning for something new.

Is there enough time? Can Ender save the human race from the impending `bugger' threat?

Why did no one give me this book years ago?.......2007-06-13

Having blown off life, spouse, and cats on Sunday in order to read cover to cover Ender's Game, I was left feeling cheated that no one had given me this book earlier in life and demanded that I read it. On my brief breaks from the book to forage for food in the fridge, I refused to speak to my spouse as I didn't want to come out of the world created by Card in this must-read book.

I'm not a sci-fi fan by nature and so wasn't expecting much. But I was hooked from page 1 and never looked back. I'm off to the local library to see if they carry the sequels.

A valuable read for all ages.......2007-06-10

I learned a lot from this book. I manage a team of people in a vary stressful environment and this book actually helped me think of things differently. Crazy, huh? Well, give the book a try, I'm sure you'll think of things a little differently afterwards.

Ender's Game (Ender Quartet) Audiobook.......2007-06-08

For anyone who is not keen on reading books, this audiobook is Excellent.

Everyone should experience "Ender's Game"

Average customer rating:

good, but not great science fiction
Should be read even by people who hate sci-fi...
The Real Story (after the prelude)
Amazing novel
Unexpected Pleasure

Speaker for the Dead (Ender, Book 2)
Orson Scott Card
Manufacturer: Tor Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0812550757

Book Description

In the aftermath of his terrible war, Ender Wiggin disappeared, and a powerful voice arose: The Speaker for the Dead, who told the true story of the Bugger War.Now, long years later, a second alien race has been discovered, but again the aliens' ways are strange and frightening....again, humans die. And it is only the Speaker for the Dead, who is also Ender Wiggin the Xenocide, who has the courage to confront the mystery....and the truth.

Amazon.com

Ender Wiggin, the hero and scapegoat of mass alien destruction in Ender's Game, receives a chance at redemption in this novel. Ender, who proclaimed as a mistake his success in wiping out an alien race, wins the opportunity to cope better with a second race, discovered by Portuguese colonists on the planet Lusitania. Orson Scott Card infuses this long, ambitious tale with intellect by casting his characters in social, religious and cultural contexts. Like its predecessor, this book won both the Hugo and Nebula Awards.

Customer Reviews:

good, but not great science fiction.......2007-06-10

Like most readers, I came to this book after reading Ender's Game.
Speaker for the Dead is much more ambitious - indeed Card considers
Ender's Game a preamble - however I thought that it was also far less
succesful. The aliens are really no more alien than some of the native
tribes of Oceania where to the Europeans when they first came into
contact. The idea of the speaker is somewhat interesting, but the
story of first (and second) contact is overall a bit unsatisfying. I find
it much more likely that, if it ever occurs, the first contact will be more
like the one described by Stanislaw Lem than that described by Card.

Should be read even by people who hate sci-fi..........2007-06-03

...or fiction, for that matter. Orson Scott Card has described this as "anthropological sci-fi," but this label does not do the book credit. This is a novel of ideas that is only incidentally a sci-fi novel. Although the main theme of the book is the collision of cultures, Speaker for the Dead is a critique of the value-neutral hermeneutic of traditional social science. Card argues that any real study of foreign humanity must be a dialog between equals - the foreign culture is not an object of examination but a collective human "subject" to be engaged. To examine the foreign from a God-like perspective, under the cold lens of objectivity, is to subordinate it. This sort of anthropologist must either patronize the foreign culture (by blindly celebrating its "difference" - without regard to the value of that difference) or demonize it (by denying its moral agency). It is therefore the diplomat, Card argues, and not the cultural anthropologist, who is the true bridge to foreign cultures.

This would have been a trenchant criticism of the anthropology of 50 years ago. Both Margaret Mead and Franz Boaz are clearly echoed in the more foolish characters in this book. And Card's thesis was still pretty poignant when this book was released in 1986. But cultural relativism is today out of fashion in the academy, and contemporary social scientists will probably bristle at this book's characterization of their discipline. Nevertheless, Speaker for the Dead is a very powerful rebuttal to the popular delusion that we somehow do a service to primitive cultures when we isolate them, idealize them, and refuse to hold them morally accountable.

There are some weak points. Ender Wiggin is a bizarre and improbable character. In attempting to create a Nietzschean ubermensch, Card has universalized Ender to the point that he retains few distinctive personal qualities. The ones that remain are unappealling: he is pushy, arrogant and melodramatic. He is aggresively tolerant and yet fiercely judgmental. This makes Ender a rather unlikely messiah, but Card does not do much to explain his mysterious charisma with the other characters in the book. And the plot is also pretty slow, especially if you come to this book quick on the heels of Ender's Game. Speaker for the Dead consitutes an abrupt change of narrative gears. While Ender's Game was fast-paced, violent and maybe too short, Speaker is methodical, meditative, and maybe too long. Read it anyway, because there is nothing else like it.

The Real Story (after the prelude).......2007-05-08

I have to say I enjoyed this one much more than -Enders Game-, there didn't seem to be as much filler. It is strange though because, Card comes up with these really cool sci-fi ideas but then writes his characters so well and fills the situation with such human emotion that the cool ideas get kind of overshadowed. I really like both aspects but for some reason they don't add up and blow me away. So in the end this is the kind of book that I would enjoy on audio but wouldn't really want read in book form (over a period of 4 or 5 weeks - at my speed).

The next book is available on audio so I'll probably listen to it sooner or later but I'm not super excited about it.

Amazing novel.......2007-04-24

I loved this book. It is better than Ender's Game in my opinion. Ender's Game was awesome, but this novel is more mature.

Unexpected Pleasure.......2007-04-13

I recently asked a friend who enjoys science fiction to recommend a title for me. Speaker for the Dead was his choice. I was deeply moved by the novel and plan to read more of Card's work. The last time I shed a tear while reading was with The Kite Runner. Different books, of course, but both share an emotional intensity, seriousness of purpose, and reverence for the mystery that is life. SFTDead knocked me off my feet.

I'm not well versed enough in SciFi to comment on the book's structure, where it fits with other works. But it stands on its own as a moving novel. It transcends genre.

Characters and Viewpoint (Elements of Fiction Writing)

Average customer rating:

Valuable, entertaining little book
A writer's notebook
Characters and Viewpoint
Starting point for wannabe writers
Good Resource Material

Characters and Viewpoint (Elements of Fiction Writing)
Orson Scott Card
Manufacturer: Writer's Digest Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0898799279

Customer Reviews:

Valuable, entertaining little book.......2007-05-14

Somehow, Orson Scott Card has a way of making anything an enjoyable read. This is true with his book on Characters and Viewpoint. He places his knowledge in the package of his well developed prose so that it is fun to read and easy to understand. But Card also likes to give his readers special treats and this book is no exception. Readers find the special treats in the stories Card shares of his many writers bootcamps and workshops including anecdotes from such well read authors as Gene Wolfe. This helps the reader understand that Card is not just drawing off his knowledge, but that of many other authors just as talented as he is. Most certainly worth multiple reads.

A writer's notebook.......2007-04-10

If you desire to write stories full of imagination, as well as fact, then I suggest you read this book. It is chock-full of explanations, viewpoints, instructions, as well as entertainment. As a budding writer, I am constantly seeking for the one book that will propel me to stardom. I find this one to be a definite step-up in that direction.

Characters and Viewpoint.......2007-03-10

Orson Scott Card makes informative and lasting insights into the creation of--and following the Point of View of--each character. This is not the STEP A to STEP Z version of writing instructions that make for a clear-cut pattern. Instead, it is a deeper instruction, breaking down the elements of writing that hide from so many want-to-be writers.
It is filled with cute little anecdotes and slap-you-in-the-face wake-up calls. ANY writer, no matter how experienced, would benefit from this book. Its an excellent referrence that forces the reader to THINK.

Starting point for wannabe writers.......2007-02-28

This was the first of many, many books I bought to attempt to help me in my quest to finally write the novel I'd been mulling around for quite some time. It was an excellant starting point. Obviously, the first thing you need to write a novel is great characters. Orson Scott Card teaches you how to do this wonderfully. When you read this book it will make you say "Why didn't I think of that??!!!" more than once. Despite your preferred genre this is a top book on characterization. The fact that he uses examples from popular books and movies from all genres was extremely helpful. Reading this book will show you how to create dynamic, complex, lovable (or hated!), dimensional characters whom your readers will either root for, or boo depending on your preference! If you're at all interested in writing fiction, this book is a must-have.

Good Resource Material.......2007-01-04

Anything like this is good for the writer, or potential author. I appreciated the helps offered, and find that I refer to the book often.

Average customer rating:

Fantastic book!
Stop while you're ahead
excellent
Ender series full review-it could be better
? (With Spoilers)

Xenocide (Ender, Book 3)
Orson Scott Card
Manufacturer: Tor Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0812509250

Amazon.com

Orson Scott Card's Xenocide is a space opera with verve. In this continuation of Ender Wiggin's story, the Starways Congress has sent a fleet to immolate the rebellious planet of Lusitania, home to the alien race of pequeninos, and home to Ender Wiggin and his family. Concealed on Lusitania is the only remaining Hive Queen, who holds a secret that may save or destroy humanity throughout the galaxy. Familiar characters from the previous novels continue to grapple with religious conflicts and family squabbles while inventing faster-than-light travel and miraculous virus treatments. Throw into the mix an entire planet of mad geniuses and a self-aware computer who wants to be a martyr, and it's hard to guess who will topple the first domino. Due to the densely woven and melodramatic nature of the story, newcomers to Ender's tale will want to start reading this series with the first books, Ender's Game and Speaker for the Dead. --Brooks Peck

Book Description

The war for survival of the planet Lusitania will be fought in the hearts of a child named Gloriously Bright.On Lusitania, Ender found a world where humans and pequininos and the Hive Queen could all live together; where three very different intelligent species could find common ground at last. Or so he thought.Lusitania also harbors the descolada, a virus that kills all humans it infects, but which the pequininos require in order to become adults. The Startways Congress so fears the effects of the descolada, should it escape from Lusitania, that they have ordered eh destruction of the entire planet, and all who live there. The Fleet is on its way, a second xenocide seems inevitble.

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic book!.......2007-05-30

Ignore all the negative reviews about this book being far-fetched. It's science fiction... it's supposed to be far-fetched. Card's representation about souls and alternate universes are his way of showing what one of his theories entails. Aren't the stories told in the bible far-fetched? People are so quick to refute Card's ideas based on the fact that they are inconceivable but many people are sold that a person can heal by touch, walk on water, etc. no questions asked. Have an open mind and you will enjoy the book.

Orson Scott Card is a great author and presents his ideas in an intriguing manner. This book was awesome. While these other people are upset about the fact that Peter and Valentine are spawned by Ender's sub-consious, I was fascinated. As the story progressed I became more and more intrigued and wanted to know more and more and more. I found myself predicting what I thought might happen with Ender's "children" and hoping that the plot would turn take certain turns. Great reading!

This book, in combination with the rest of the Ender saga, was amazing and tells a fascinating story!

Stop while you're ahead.......2007-04-11

When they say `trilogy,' you think that the end of the third book is, well, the end (except in the case of the increasingly inaccurately named Hitchhiker's Trilogy, but that's okay because I love Douglas Adams). Not to mention taking forever to listen to because it was less of a narration and more of a `show,' so when a character was afflicted with a condition that made him speak slowly, they narrated veeeerrrrrryyyyyy sssslllllooooowwwwlllllyyyy. That was... annoying, to say the least. The downside of audio books, I guess. But, on to the story! It was a bit of a stretch, really, even for sci-fi. I think the series has gone way downhill since Ender's Game (or perhaps that book was so good it was impossible to follow?), though curiosity will lead me to read (or listen to) the next book. There were two storylines at war here, and though he smooshed them together, I never felt they really fit. More a set of convenient plot devices than good storylines. And every thing seemed a bit much - a bit over-the-top, overdone, overdramatic. Not the good, suspenseful `what happens next' drama of the previous books, but more like `reality TV' fake drama - with a sitcom ending (at least, so far).

excellent.......2007-02-28

Different from the first book in the series, but still really great writing. How can you not relate to Ender?

Ender series full review-it could be better.......2007-02-28

I have read the whole ender series, but with a strange sequence which may have affected the way I view the different books in the series. The first book I have read was the Shadow of the Hegemon, thanks to a tourist that had left it in the library of a hotel in Skiathos island. This book got me hooked, but it confused me also as I didn't know if I should start reading the next books or the previous ones.

The general pattern in the whole series is:
The beginning book is Ender's Game. Then we have two subcategories, one the Shadow series (which, with the exception of the first book, take place on earth and are more within military strategy) and one the Ender series (which take place in space and are more into new sci-fi ideas). Shadow series probably can be read from everyone, while I guess that the Ender series (especially from Speaker for the Dead onwards) would be read mainly from sci-fi fans.
Below are my comments for the books of the series, in the order I have read them and a marking (10 is the highest mark):

Shadow of the Hegemon: The first book I have read, and which I could not leave from my hands. I finished it in 2 days. It was fast paced action, very smart plot and after reading it I believed that Orson Scot Card (OSC) has invented/re-invented a new genre of literature. That of military strategy and adventure combined with brilliance/mind games and hidden portions of romance. Such books always existed but this seemed to be THE book. It was like the way Dan Brown re-invented books with trivials and puzzles, together with fast paced adventure. I strongly recommend it to everybody that likes such type of books. (mark: 10)

Shadow puppets: The sequel to the above. I found it interesting but somehow boring as the above story developed little and the focus was on the characters (maybe too much focus so that it seemed to me that it was slightly mumbling jumbling. Strategy, brilliance and adventure seemed to be very low here. I would not recommend it for anybody to read it in isolate, unfortunately you have to read it if you want to go to the next book. I really believe that OSC made a mistake here (deliberately or not) as this book should have been told in 50-60 pages and be included in the previous or the next book. (mark: 6 but you will read it because you will want to read Shadow of the Giant)

Shadow of the Giant: (see below)

Ender's game: A really great book to read, probably the best of the series, however, as I had read its sequels first, when I reached the 80% of this book, I had predicted the end. However, it's at the highest standards of sci-fi, military strategy, adventure, brilliant mind games and very good depth in the human aspect of the characters. In comparison to the shadow series, it is more "space" sci-fi, while shadow series have much lesser sci-fi elements and are more down to earth. (mark: 10)

Speaker for the dead: Another great book, but different style. Less adventure, more human aspect, more maturity. Brilliance yes, but not military, sci-fi yes (some great ideas) but not spaceship style. (Mark: 9)

Xenocide: A good sequel of the previous novel. In certain points more brilliant, in other sections more boring, however is again a very good sci-fi book. The only flaw in these series (Speker for the dead, Xenocide, Children of the mind) is the idea behind one of the alien species described which I found outrageously extreme, however if you ignore it becomes first class reading. (Mark: 9)

Children of the mind: I think that OSC has wrapped up his case pretty badly in that one. It's a fair book except the fact that I felt that OSC mumbles jumbles for one third of the novel not having decided how to end it. In other critiques I have found it described as nice approach to moral dilemmas, however, moral dilemma is when you describe it once and make your choice, while here the dilemma is repeated and repeated... I felt like I was watching a movie worth 10 oscars and the end did not worth to be included even in a cheap video movie. And again, many open ends at the end (for possible sequels). (Mark: 7 but you will read it as you will be hooked from the previous ones).

Ender's shadow: Having read Enders Game and Shadow of the Hegemon, I found this book probably the best of the series, which of course is my subjective preference. I could characterize it as probably the best book I have read ever! Not to repeat myself, it has all that Shadow of the Hegemon and Ender's Game have, and even more...(Mark: the absolute 10).

Shadow of the Giant: When I read shadow puppets, I said, "that's it, OSC has lost either his talent or his appetite for good writing...", so I was pretty unwilling to read it. Fortunately I decided to, as it proved to be a good one, were I believe that OSC has nicely wrapped up his story, with two small flaws.
* The one is described below (its end needed to be slightly more complete) and,
* The other is the fact that although he describes certain smart battles, he does not focus enough on them as it seems that he is in a hurry to wrap all things up. It had all elements to become a masterpiece but it ended up being a good to read book (Mark: 9)

In general, both series have three categories of good stuff:
1) Some great sci-fi ideas (battle room, battle games, fantasy game, ansible, aia, Jane, in/out travel, raman varelse etc)
2) Great military strategy, mind games etc combined with adventure
3) In certain books, depth of characters, moral dilemmas etc
And two main bad stuff:
1) Mumbling jumbling in certain books which was completely unnecessary (either OSC wanted just to produce and sell another title - see shadow puppets- or he could not decide how the story will continue-see last book of Ender series).
2) One of the alien species described in the Ender series was so too outrageous even for sci-fi that made it look ridiculous. The idea behind it was brilliant in sci-fi terms, but he could try a different living organism...
Finally, OSC has left open ends in both series (probably for next sequels), however I believe that there are two things missing. a) the story of the Hive Queen and the Hegemon, told in a metaphorical manner so it means much for humanity. b) In ancient theatre, a story should end in a way that brings "katharsis" to the story, and the souls of the readers. I believe that the end of the shadow of the giant may be smart for commercial purposes but it was very unfair to the reader as it did not bring full "katharsis".

? (With Spoilers).......2007-01-21

This book had me up until the ending. As usual, Card did a masterful job with describing the piggies and the buggers. The plotline about Path and Gloriously Bright was engaging and, I thought, freshly original.

Everything was going good until the the concept of auias (sp?) were introduced. Upon reading about them I realized that they completely defied even the most radical laws of physics, but I figured I would keep reading anyways. Xenocide had so far been a wonderful book.

Then Ender takes a trip outside of the universe... and the book completely falls apart. A new Valentine and a new Peter are just randomly created out of nowhere. One of the characters manages to hold the image of the entire molecular structure of a virus within her head, and by doing so-- poof!-- the virus appears in her lap.

In short, this was a thought-provoking, well-drawn book with an absolutely terrible ending.

Average customer rating:

send a telegram
Not up to par with Card's work
The syntax was so bad I stopped reading. Which is why I gave it one star.
George Soros Should Sue Card for Libel
Read For Yourself

Empire
Orson Scott Card
Manufacturer: Tor Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0765316110
Release Date: 2006-11-28

Book Description

The American Empire has grown too fast, and the fault lines at home are stressed to the breaking point. The war of words between Right and Left has collapsed into a shooting war, though most people just want to be left alone.

The battle rages between the high-technology weapons on one side, and militia foot-soldiers on the other, devastating the cities, and overrunning the countryside. But the vast majority, who only want the killing to stop and the nation to return to more peaceful days, have technology, weapons and strategic geniuses of their own.

When the American dream shatters into violence, who can hold the people and the government together? And which side will you be on?

Orson Scott Card is a master storyteller, who has earned millions of fans and reams of praise for his previous science fiction and fantasy novels. Now he steps a little closer to the present day with this chilling look at a near future scenario of a new American Civil War.

Customer Reviews:

send a telegram.......2007-06-26

After reading the first few chapters of this novel, I suspected the author had a no-so-hidden political agenda. As has been pointed out by several reviewers (both favorably and unfavorably), the book's central premise is a new American civil war between liberals and conservatives. As much as Orson Scott Card would like this to be a novel of great ideas, the sweep of history, and the fragility of our political system, at hits heart "Empire" is merely a political screed designed to advance today's Republican agenda.

Plus it's very poorly written. I now yearn for Clive Cussler's stark realism and disciplined prose. That's how poorly written it is.

Not up to par with Card's work.......2007-06-23

I've read nearly all of Card's novels with only a couple of exceptions, and this book isn't up to the quality of what he normally writes.

One aspect of Card's work that I really enjoy is how he gives differring perspectives to the actions in his stories. However, in this book we never really got the progressives' perspective with any kind of depth to the point where their actions would be believable. I think that a few chapters from Aldo Veru's perspective, as well as more of Torrent's perspective would have made this a much better read. It worked for Abner Doon in the Worthing Saga, and Torrent is essentially the same character.

This read like a novel that the author was writing for the purposes of having it later turned into a movie, not unlike the Di Vinci Code. It's kept simplistic and action driven throughout with insubstantial character development. It's also highly entertaining which is why I still give it 3 stars.

It just isn't very thought provoking, because Card doesn't explore the characters and situations so much as he preaches. While I agree with what he brings across in this book, I'd be much more interested in reading a book that explores concepts that I don't agree with to the point that I gain a better understanding of myself and others.

I don't think Card grew very much as a person or as a writer through writing this book, making it ineffectual literature for his readers.

The syntax was so bad I stopped reading. Which is why I gave it one star........2007-06-14

I had never before read anything by Orson Scott Card. So I didn't know what to expect. I started reading with great interest. But as I tried to read, sentence after sentence, something seemed wrong. Because it seemed that many sentences ended and started where there should have been commas. Which meant that the syntax, or lack thereof, overwhelmed the development of the characters and the plot.

I made it through the second chapter. At which time I found myself unable to contine reading. So I stopped.

Maybe it's a style thing. And I just don't get it.

Seriously, I never expected anything written this poorly. It's like whoever wrote it doesn't get compound/complex sentence syntax and how to use commas. Just about all the reviews of this book are easier to read than the book itself.

George Soros Should Sue Card for Libel.......2007-06-02

Although in the afterword Card pretends that the red state/blue state divide is caused by both sides, the novel certainly clears up who is really worse, LIBERALS. Rush Limbaugh must have edited this "novel," with virtuous right-wing military men beating the [..] out of limp-writed liberal pansies who are led, no joke, by a stand-in for George Soros named Aldo Verus. What a waste of time and money, luckily it was a quick read. Card had some good ideas at some point in his career, and I always knew he was conservative, but this is the sort of [...] I would expect from Sean "I'm so tough" Hannity.

Read For Yourself.......2007-05-29

The book does not favor the right nor the left. The author goes to great pains to point out repeatedly that either side could be to blame, both in the actual story and in the Afterword. If the reviewers actually read to the end they would find out that both sides are manipulated by a third party. Yes, CNN=bad but keep in mind that the main characters are officers in the military so CNN is "bad" from their point of view. Another anti-administration (Bush's name never appears but it is obvious he is the president) media elite with the Washington Post comes out as a good guy. The main character's wife is a liberal Democrat. Somehow, I think that some reviewers would have been more comfortable if the primary bad guys were neo-cons.

This book is about how divided the nation has become and what could result from that division. In the Afterword, Card rakes both parties and ideologies over the coals for their blind dogma. Read with an open mind.

My main problem with the book has to do with how two of the main characters are forced together and the resulting blind trust that follows. That was a stretch for me. I was a bit surprised at the sudden exit of one of those characters. I didn't feel like his exit was dealt with very well. Also, some of the technology is never explained (ex. the EMP weapon) and that made it difficult to believe this was all happening in the very near future.

Children of the Mind (Ender, Book 4) (Ender Quartet)

Average customer rating:

exciting 5th book
Had the chance to be excellent, but is only a relatively good one
Is this still sci-fi genre ?
Good book, strange plot
Just OK

Children of the Mind (Ender, Book 4) (Ender Quartet)
Orson Scott Card
Manufacturer: Tor Science Fiction
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0812522397

Amazon.com

Children of the Mind, fourth in the Ender series, is the conclusion of the story begun in the third book, Xenocide. The author unravels Ender's life and reweaves the threads into unexpected new patterns, including an apparent reincarnation of his threatening older brother, Peter, not to mention another "sister" Valentine. Multiple storylines entwine, as the threat of the Lusitania-bound fleet looms ever nearer. The self-aware computer, Jane, who has always been more than she seemed, faces death at human hands even as she approaches godhood. At the same time, the characters hurry to investigate the origins of the descolada virus before they lose their ability to travel instantaneously between the stars. There is plenty of action and romance to season the text's analyses of Japanese culture and the flux and ebb of civilizations. But does the author really mean to imply that Ender's wife literally bores him to death? --Brooks Peck

Book Description

The planet Lusitania is home to three sentient species: the Pequeninos; a large colony of humans; and the Hive Queen, brought there by Ender. But once against the human race has grown fearful; the Starways Congress has gathered a fleet to destroy Lusitania.Jane, the evolved computer intelligence, can save the three sentient races of Lusitania. She has learned how to move ships outside the universe, and then instantly back to a different world, abolishing the light-speed limit. But it takes all the processing power available to her, and the Starways Congress is shutting down the Net, world by world.Soon Jane will not be able to move the ships. Ender's children must save her if they are to save themselves.

Customer Reviews:

exciting 5th book .......2007-04-24

This was a great book, giving a nice conclusion to Ender's adventure. This ending, however, was unexpected to me, so that made it especially interesting.

Had the chance to be excellent, but is only a relatively good one.......2007-04-04

Is this still sci-fi genre ?.......2007-03-21

... I love whole "Ender's saga" books at all. This one it was for me really suprise. I got information that O.S.C. put his one copy to AOL and let the users comment it. And he finally change some parts(as he state at the end of the book). There are definetely some sci-fi aspects, but I think it is diametraly different than any previous books from this Ender's saga.
The "eastern/asian" mentality, faith, illness, social behavior and so on really got me. OSC really did his work well. The quotations before every chapter, precise translation from Chinese/Japanesse/Korean languages. I really love it.
Anyone who is familiar with mentail sickness will be suprised how preciselly OSC describes the conclusion and confusion from this type of sickness.
I read this master piece two times and everytime I found something new. This is possible caused by my age, because it rapidly grows so me preferencies changes and that's why I love this book much more than on first read.

All other books from Ender's saga are pretty similar as the 1st one(ender's game) so I wrote only this review, because the others does not need it at all.

Good book, strange plot.......2007-01-23

As usual, Card delivers with great writing and relatable characters. But the plot of Children of the Mind was just a little too out there for me to take it seriously.

This book is hardly about Ender AT ALL. Or, it is if you count the fact that his soul divided and made two new characters, which were really old characters, one of which is still alive, so there are really two of them, only... well, it got pretty wierd. All the conciousness-swapping made the book rather unrealistic. I did, however, enjoy the God-Whisperings of Gloriously Bright.

In short, this was a good book with a far-fetched plot. The ending was very solid, though-- and the book was a definite page-turner.

Just OK.......2006-11-28

Essentially, this novel is a continuation of "Xenocide," with all of the flaws of that novel rehashed yet again. "Children of the Mind" is talky and implausible, in the sense that it becomes increasingly harder to suspend one's sense of disbelief as the book continues. By this time, readers want some resolution of the plot threads began earlier in this series. However, instead of resolution, what we get is a setup for yet another sequel. If you have read up to "Xenocide," of course you will read this as well, but it is doubtful you will like it.

Average customer rating:

Worthwhile and fulfilling
fantastic book!
Amazing novel!!
A second look...
Interesting Angle

Ender's Shadow (Ender, Book 5)
Orson Scott Card
Manufacturer: Tor Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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Shadow Puppets

ASIN: 0812575717

Product Description

Enders Shadow --Ender Series, #--

Amazon.com

Ender's Shadow is being dubbed as a parallel novel to Orson Scott Card's Hugo and Nebula Award-winning Ender's Game. By "parallel," Card means that Shadow begins and ends at roughly the same time as Game, and it chronicles many of the same events. In fact, the two books tell an almost identical story of brilliant children being trained in the orbiting Battle School to lead humanity's fleets in the final war against alien invaders known as the Buggers. The most brilliant of these young recruits is Ender Wiggin, an unparalleled commander and tactician who can surely defeat the Buggers if only he can overcome his own inner turmoil.

Second among the children is Bean, who becomes Ender's lieutenant despite the fact that he is the smallest and youngest of the Battle School students. Bean is the central character of Shadow, and we pick up his story when he is just a 2-year-old starving on the streets of a future Rotterdam that has become a hell on earth. Bean is unnaturally intelligent for his age, which is the only thing that allows him to escape--though not unscathed--the streets and eventually end up in Battle School. Despite his brilliance, however, Bean is doomed to live his life as an also-ran to the more famous and in many ways more brilliant Ender. Nonetheless, Bean learns things that Ender cannot or will not understand, and it falls to this once pathetic street urchin to carry the weight of a terrible burden that Ender must not be allowed to know.

Although it may seem like Shadow is merely an attempt by Card to cash in on the success of his justly famous Ender's Game, that suspicion will dissipate once you turn the first few pages of this engrossing novel. It's clear that Bean has a story worth telling, and that Card (who started the project with a cowriter but later decided he wanted it all to himself) is driven to tell it. And though much of Ender's Game hinges on a surprise ending that Card fans are likely well acquainted with, Shadow manages to capitalize on that same surprise and even turn the table on readers. In the end, it seems a shame that Shadow, like Bean himself, will forever be eclipsed by the myth of Ender, because this is a novel that can easily stand on its own. Luckily for readers, Card has left plenty of room for a sequel, so we may well be seeing more of Bean in the near future. --Craig E. Engler

Customer Reviews:

Worthwhile and fulfilling.......2007-06-21

Ender's Shadow is dubbed a "parallel novel" to the sensational Ender's Game. It is thusly named because it essentially takes place during the same span of time as does Ender's Game, albeit this time the protagonist is the diminutive Bean. Bean becomes one of Enders' most valuable Commanders despite his size and his extremely young age. This book could have been nothing more than a retread of the original story, with little insight excepting a new point of view.

However, Ender's Shadow is a triumph unto itself, holding its own as a standalone novel well outside its predecessors shadow. Of course, what makes Shadow so effectual are some of the same themes that make Game compelling: adversity, ruthlessness, compassion and morality. Only Bean's story explores those themes with more amplification.

We follow Bean's life from the harsh streets of Rotterdam, where an undersized and malnurished Bean uses his superior intelligence in order to stay alive, to his rise through the elite Battleschool. Bean's early life on the streets and his exposure to extreme brutality prepares him for the rigors of what is to come.

It is the study of Bean's life, his fight for survival and his brutal beginnings that set this story in a slightly different light then Ender's Game. Bean struggles toward finding a common ground with humanity and developing a moral compass despite being in an environment that could have produced a monstrosity instead. In fact, it indeed does produce monstrosities and Bean's main antogonist is one of them.

Ender's Shadow does have some issues. The book at times feels as though it is written to fit some of the narrative of Ender's game. Also, Bean himself is not as endearing a character as Ender. Finally, sue to the fact that the reader knows the basic plot of Ender's game, some of the power of Ender's Game is lost on Ender's Shadow.

All told, Ender's Shadow is a compelling novel, with much to contemplate regarding the nature of humanity, triumph over accomplishment, and the intrinsic value of morality.

fantastic book!.......2007-06-07

Ender's Shadow lives up to Card's highest standards. It's thoughtful, interesting, and you become completely involved with Bean. A must read for Card fans and science fiction fans in general.

Amazing novel!!.......2007-05-30

This book was just as good as Ender's Game. It told the same story, but the perspective used made it just as interesting as the first. Even if you read the story one after the other, it introduces so many different aspects that both stories can be very intriguing. I read this book after reading the Ender Quartet (Ender's Game, Speaker for the Dead, Xenocide, and Children of the Mind) and it was a great adventure back into the battle school.

10 out of 10

A second look..........2007-05-17

This book was great because it offers a different perspective to Ender's Game. Albeit, Bean is not as endearing of a character as Ender is, he has his moments. This uber-genius takes us for a more "behind-the-scenes" look at the events that played out in Ender's Game.

If you liked Ender's Game, then you will like this book as well. It's pretty much the same premise, but you get a chance to enjoy different characters. There is a very separate story here as well. It's not just the same events as in Ender's Game. It's a story about survival, and what it means to live a life less envied.

Interesting Angle.......2007-03-09

This is a companion book to "Ender's Game." It tells the story of the same time from the point of view of another student at the battle school. Bean, the smallest boy under Ender's command, had an entirely different experience from Ender growing up. Bean starts off on the streets in a city slum at the age of four. He was tiny but brilliant and managed to give advice to a gang leader that let him into her gang, where he was able to get food and belong to something like a family. But his intelligence was dangerous to him. The boy who takes over as leader of the gang holds a grudge against Bean. When a missionary tests Bean and decides he is bright enough to get into battle school, Bean takes the opportunity.

At battle school, Bean tries to figure out what is going on behind the scenes. He refuses to participate in the mind games the teachers want him to play, and instead he spends his time trying to figure out what the teachers know. He comes dangerously close to getting sent home because of his good guesses. But the teachers need him and think that if something happens to Ender, Bean will be the one to take over his command.

It isn't until halfway through the book that Bean actually meets Ender and their lives intertwine. This book is interesting because it shows Ender from an outsider's point of view. I kept thinking back to what was going on in Ender's head and comparing it to what Bean was thinking about him. It made for an interesting side story to "Ender's Game." I found myself wishing I had been able to read this book first.

I didn't like how Bean and Ender never really ended up understanding each other. I had hoped by the end of the book Bean would like Ender more than he did, since I found Ender such a likable character in "Ender's Game."

Average customer rating:

Riveting, entertaining, suspenseful book.
Ender series full review-one of the best-Great book for strategy
When will Ender end?
and that's the rest of the story
Why didn't somebody warn me?

Shadow of the Hegemon (Ender, Book 6)
Orson Scott Card
Manufacturer: Tor Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0812565959

Amazon.com

Orson Scott Card finally explores what happened on earth after the war with the Buggers in the sixth book of his Ender series, Shadow of the Hegemon. This novel is the continuation of the story of Bean, which began with Ender's Shadow, a parallel novel to Card's Hugo and Nebula Award-winning Ender's Game.

While Ender heads off to a faraway planet, Bean and the other brilliant children who helped Ender save the earth from alien invaders have become war heroes and have finally been sent home to live with their parents. While the children try to fit back in with the family and friends they haven't known for nearly a decade, someone's worried about their safety. Peter Wiggins, Ender's brother, has foreseen that the talented children are in danger of being killed or kidnapped. His fears are quickly realized, and only Bean manages to escape. Bean knows he must save the others and protect humanity from a new evil that has arisen, an evil from his past. But just as he played second to Ender during the Bugger war, Bean must again step into the shadow of another, the one who will be Hegemon.

In Shadow of the Hegemon, Card can't help but fall back into old patterns. But while the theme is the same as in previous books--brilliant, tragic children with the fate of the human race resting on their shoulders--Shadow of the Hegemon does a wonderful job of continuing Bean's tale against a backdrop of the politics and intrigue of a fragile earth. While the novel is accessible, new readers to the series would be wise to begin with Ender's Game or Ender's Shadow. --Kathie Huddleston

Book Description

The War is over, won by Ender Wiggin and his team of brilliant child-warriors. The enemy is destroyed, the human race is saved. Ender himself refuses to return to the planet, but his crew has gone home to their families, scattered across the globe. The battle school is no more.But with the external threat gone, the Earth has become a battlefield once more. The children of the Battle School are more than heros; they are potential weapons that can bring power to the countries that control them. One by one, all of Ender's Dragon Army are kidnapped. Only Bean escapes; and he turns for help to Ender's brother Peter.Peter Wiggin, Ender's older brother, has already been manipulating the politics of Earth from behind the scenes. With Bean's help, he will eventually rule the world.

Download Description

This is the direct sequel to ENDER'S SHADOW; it tells of Bean's life after the Battle School. Peter Wiggin, Ender's older brother, recruits Bean as his own right-hand-man, and together they are able to take control of one of the warring factions on Earth. Peter becomes the absolute ruler of Earth, the Hegemon.

Customer Reviews:

Riveting, entertaining, suspenseful book........2007-03-24

I bought this for Christmas for my 32 yr. old daughter. She loved it.

Ender series full review-one of the best-Great book for strategy.......2007-02-28

When will Ender end?.......2007-01-06

Although I love the way Orson Scott Card writes, I feel that the subject matter in the latter Ender books appeals to a different audience than the original Ender book.

and that's the rest of the story.......2006-11-10

This book continues Card's great storytelling, dealing with many of the untouched aspects of the original story. It's great to see how Card works the problems of post-bugger Earth.

Why didn't somebody warn me?.......2006-06-29

You loved Ender's Game, right?

And even though the next couple of Ender-related books were more confusing and not of the same quality as Ender's Game, at last came Ender's Shadow, the parallel story of Bean. Terrific.

Then came Shadow of the Hegemon.

It is, literally, a shadow of the original talent and quality of the first five books. The dialogue is tedious, the story line pencil thin, and the plot has a huge Achilles' heel (pun intended).

This is another example of a book out by an author (in this case Orson Scott Card) who must have been pressured to produce, because this baby needs more cooking.

It will make no sense if you haven't read Ender's Game and Ender's Shadow. It hardly makes any sense at all. Beware!

Average customer rating:

How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy
Don't Bother...
A good history lesson
Best Guide for Beginners
If you need a little guidance this is the book for you!

How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy
Orson Scott Card
Manufacturer: Writer's Digest Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 158297103X

Book Description

Finally, Orson Scott Card's Hugo award-winning classic on the art and craft of writing science fiction and fantasy is available in paperback! Card provides invaluable advice for every science fiction and fantasy writer interested in constructing stories about people, worlds and events that stretch the boundaries of the possible...and the magical. They'll learn: * what is and isn't science fiction and fantasy, and where their story fits in the mix * how to build, populate, and dramatize a credible, inviting world readers will want to explore * how to use the MICE quotient--milieu, idea, character and event--to structure a successful story * where the markets are, how to reach them and get published There's no better source of information for writers working in these genres. This book will help them effectively produce exciting stories that are both fascinating and market-ready.

Customer Reviews:

How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy.......2007-06-25

If you've never written Sci-fi and DON'T know the market it's 5 star, even though its print date is a little old. It's a start. I'm not all the way through the book and so far most of what's discussed I already knew--through my own research.

Don't Bother..........2007-05-13

I began reading "How to Write SF & F" with high hopes, which were ultimately dashed. This man has no business writing a how-to guide. In fact, he gives the worst advice on agents and publishers I have ever heard. If you are seriously interested in writing sf or fantasy (i.e. you write sf/f whether or not you are paid), please save yourself the few hours it will take you to read this and spend it writing instead. There is more useful information on the many websites on this topic than Card gives in this book; most of it is regurgitated in watered-down form from the many excellent writing guides on the market. Though I think the idea in his style is to portray himself as wise and all-knowing, he just comes off as arrogant and pompous. There are probably only a few chapters of actual meat in this book and the rest is filled with stories about the struggles of the unrecognized writer to support his family, his long-suffering wife (who he mentions as a side note had a miscarriage and he carted her off to her mother's so he could write in peace), and of course shameless name-dropping-- including constantly mentioning other books he's written. It took me a whopping two-and-a-half hours to read this "guide", at the end of which I was left feeling empty and annoyed. Card is a hack that has somehow been allowed to continue to write through some strange miracle of publishing. My granny has more talent in her bunion.

A good history lesson.......2007-04-11

How To Write Science Fiction & Fantasy by Orson Scott Card spells out the history of sci-fi and fantasy and gives advice on how to continue the tradition with your own work. Card has read so many old books that it boggles my mind. I wish I'd read as many books as he has. He's also written some great books, so he knows what he's talking about. This book was one of the first books I read about writing when I started my career as a fantasy author. It definitely helped me get published and gave me valuable information about the genre that I love. It's not essential, but a good treatise on the history of the f/sf genre.

Paul Genesse, Author & Copy Editor
[...]

Best Guide for Beginners.......2007-01-26

This is the best book for beginning writers who are not certain that they want to write in the SF&F genre. For beginning writers, deciding on genre tends to them a heart attack. Most aspiring writers tend to be sensitive about every decision no matter how small, and Card's book is encouraging. It will not immobilize them with fear or indecision. The book is well planned and easy to read. Finally, Card's advice is not all over the place like most creative writing books that attempt to please everyone.

If you need a little guidance this is the book for you!.......2007-01-12

This is a great book. It is simple enough that anyone can understand it, but it doesn't talk down to you. I've been writing for awhile, and there were some things in there I just hadn't thought I needed to sit down and do before starting the story. The advice works - and your stories will be stronger for it. Anyone interested in writing Science Fiction or Fantasy should have this book in their library.

Average customer rating:

Shadow Puppets
Bean's Shadow
Human interest dimension trumps geopolitics
Ender series full review-its a pitty but you will read it...
Solid writing

Shadow Puppets
Orson Scott Card
Manufacturer: Amazon Remainders Account
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Shadow of the Giant (Ender, Book 8) (Ender's Shadow)
Shadow of the Hegemon (Ender, Book 6)
Ender's Shadow (Ender, Book 5) (Ender's Shadow)
Children of the Mind (Ender, Book 4) (Ender Quartet)
Xenocide (Ender, Book 3)

ASIN: B000212BTA

Amazon.com

In Shadow Puppets, Orson Scott Card continues the storyline of Shadow of the Hegemon, following the exploits of the Battle School children, prodigies who have returned to an Earth thrown into chaos after the unifying force of the alien invasion they stopped in Ender's Game and Ender's Shadow has dissipated.

Foremost among these whiz kids is the brilliant Bean who, in Shadow of the Hegemon, rescued his comrades from his nemesis--the dastardly Achilles. Now, the down-but-not-out evil genius is again scheming towards global domination and vengeance against the irrepressible Bean. It's up to Bean and his newfound love, Petra, to outwit the young psychopath and save the world. Meanwhile, the other Battle School children are called to serve again as an expansionist China threatens the stability of post-Bugger War Earth.

Shadow Puppets is, for better or worse, exactly what readers have come to expect from Card. There are thought-provoking musings on geopolitics, war, courage, arrogance, good versus evil, and the concept of children wise beyond their years dealing with grave responsibility. Unfortunately, many of these furnishings are looking a little frayed around the edges, but fans will enjoy an exciting, fast-paced plot and a suspense-filled conclusion. --Jeremy Pugh

Book Description

Sequel to the New York Times bestselling novel Shadow of the Hegemon Earth and its society have been irrevocably changed in the aftermath of Ender Wiggins victory over the Formics. The unity enforced upon the warring nations by an alien enemy has shattered. Nations are rising again, seeking territory and influence, and most of all, seeking to control the skills and loyalty of the children from the Battle School. But one person has a better idea. Peter Wiggin, Enders older, more ruthless brother, sees that any hope for the future of Earth lies in restoring a sense of unity and purpose. And he has an irresistible hold on the loyalty of Earths young warriors. With Bean at his side, the two will reshape the future.

Download Description

Earth and its society have been irrevocably changed in the aftermath of Ender Wiggin's victory over the Formics. The unity enforced upon the warring nations by an alien enemy has shattered. Nations are rising again, seeking territory and influence, and most of all, seeking to control the skills and loyalty of the children from the Battle School. But one person has a better idea. Peter Wiggin, Ender's older, more ruthless, brother, sees that any hope for the future of Earth lies in restoring a sense of unity and purpose. And he has an irresistable call on the loyalty of Earth's young warriors. With Bean at his side, the two will reshape our future.

Customer Reviews:

Shadow Puppets.......2007-06-11

awesome. the book is right in line with Card's series, Ender's Game. i was hooked & couldn't put it down. i recommend the entire series to anyone who wants a book that keeps you hooked till the end & keeps you coming back for more.

Bean's Shadow.......2007-05-06

Not as good as the first in the Ean series but still good enough. Card's criticism of US foreign policy is obvious i nhis narrative but it's still a worthwhile read. (I'll try and do this without spoilers)It's after the end of the Bugger War and the battle school children have all returned home (oh well, no major spoilers then) but like most precious and valuable military resources, someone is kidnapping them to try and take over the world (guess who) and Bean has to stop them. Long story short, expect another action packed sci-fi thriller by Card. OH and we get to see and hear more about Peter Wiggin.

Human interest dimension trumps geopolitics.......2007-03-30

This novel continues the story of Bean and Petra's struggle against the evil genius Achilles, last seen in Chinese custody. When Achille usurps the office of Hegemon, Bean, Petra, and Peter Wiggin must all go into hiding, where Peter experiences a taste of humility and a renewed relationship with his parents and Bean and Petra fall in love and decide to start a family. These human aspects of the plot are its strongest elements and raise this story above the level of its predeccessor.

The weakest point in any of the Bean novels is always the political dimension. I've never been convinced by Orson Scott Card's take on geopolitics. In his worldview, everybody seems to be waiting for a messiah, whether it's the united Muslims and their new caliph or the western world and the office of the Hegemon. The manner in which the character Virlomi incites wide-scale civil disobediance among rural Indians against Chinese occupation by dropping stones seemed particularly silly.

Still, I enjoyed the resolution of the Achille storyline and am intrigued by the plot threads that Card hasn't resolved yet--Bean's terminal giantism, his relationship with Petra, and the fate of their missing embryos.

Ender series full review-its a pitty but you will read it..........2007-02-28

Solid writing.......2007-01-05

After the third or fourth installment of a story, things can get kind of stale. The "Speaker for The Dead" branch of the story degenerated into almost laughable science fantasy by the end of "The Children of The Mind". Bean's saga has yet to disappoint and he remains a compelling character.

Authors:

Authors

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