Sepetys is a master of bringing hidden histories to light in historical fiction and this novel is yet another powerful and moving story from a period of history that is often left untaught and undiscovered. Imagine living in a world where in order to save the people you love, you have to betray them? 17-year-old Cristian lives in Romania in 1989 during a period where a harsh dictator ruled by fear, isolation and intimidation. Knowledge was power, lies were ammunition, and secrets were key. Cristian is blackmailed by the secret police into becoming an informant, forced to give up information about his friends and family in exchange for medicine for his ill grandfather. Cristian, however, is determined to outwit his handler, unite the Romanian people in revolution, and reveal to the world what life is truly like for those living behind the iron curtain in Romania. This is a must read for those who enjoy historical fiction, those who enjoy learning about hidden histories, and those who enjoy thinking about social justice issues with a global perspective. Gr 8+ (Alissa Lauzon)
