Escaping the Tiger by Laura Manivong

Rating:
Characters: 19/20
Plot: 18/20
Originality: 18/20
Writing: 18/20
Recommendation: 19/20
Overall: 92/100 or A
Source: Publisher

Twelve-year-old Vonlai lives in the oppressive Communist Laos. He knows that soldiers who guard the Mekong River shoot at anything that moves. Nothing is left for his family here, but the hope that their will be something better on the other side of the river in Thailand, even if that means a refuge camp. Even in the camp, their struggles are far from over. Na Pho is a forgotten place, with poorly made huts, stifling heat, and rationed food. Still, Vonlai tries to carry on as if everything is normal. He pays attention in school, a dusty barrack overcrowded with kids too hungry to learn. And, to forget his empty stomach, he plays soccer in a field full of rocks. But when someone inside the camp threatens his family, Vonlai calls on a forbidden skill to protect their future, if only they can make it out of Na Pho alive.
Volai is a strong character. I loved that he had such a positive outlook on life, even in his situation. I also love Dalah. She was such a positive girl and so spirited at the darkest times. His mother and father were great parents and wanted the best for them. Colonel was also a fun character, and he had such a strong and distinctive personality. The plot is similar to other books in some ways. The characters are in a refuge camp and are hoping for a better life. I loved how they tried to be optimistic about all of the horrible things that were happening in there world. I also liked that Manivong based this on her husband's experience in a refuge camp, it made it more truthful and personal. Manivong is a brilliant writer that weaves real life into such a unexplainable situation. This book made me feel so thankful for where I live and what I have. I feel that this book will make you appreciate all the little thing. I recommend this book, to anyone that like books that are so full of true emotions.