52 pages • 1 hour read
Words on Fire
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Book Brief
322
Novel • Fiction
Lithuania • 1890s
2019
Middle grade
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
Words on Fire by Jennifer A. Nielsen follows 12-year-old Audra Zikaris in 1893 Russian-occupied Lithuania as she becomes a book smuggler to resist the banning of Lithuanian language materials. After her parents are arrested, Audra learns the importance of books in preserving culture and joins a secret network to distribute them, facing numerous dangers and self-discovery along the way. This story includes acts of violence, such as whipping, beating, and arson.
Adventurous
Inspirational
Hopeful
Emotional
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
13,206 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jennifer A. Nielsen’s Words on Fire has been praised for its gripping portrayal of historical events, compelling characters, and engaging storytelling. Readers appreciate the novel's fast-paced plot and strong themes of courage and resistance. However, some critics point out that the writing can feel repetitive and character development occasionally lacks depth. Overall, it’s a strong historical read for middle-grade audiences.
Who Should Read Words on Fire?
Readers who relish historical fiction with strong, courageous young protagonists will enjoy Words on Fire by Jennifer A. Nielsen. Comparable to The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, this tale of resistance and resilience under oppressive regimes will captivate fans of daring adventures and poignant narratives.
13,206 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Lukas
Lukas
A boy slightly older than Audra, who becomes her first real friend and fellow book carrier, known for his disheveled appearance and outspoken belief in the resistance.
Lina and Henrikas Zikaris
Lina and Henrikas Zikaris
Audra's parents, with Lina being introverted and nurturing while Henrikas is bold and adventurous, both secretly involved in the resistance.
Officer Rusakov
Officer Rusakov
A Russian soldier and the novel's antagonist who is dedicated to enforcing laws, reflecting the harshness of the Russian occupation.
Milda Sabiene
Milda Sabiene
An older woman running an underground bookstore and school, known for her pleasant smile and willingness to take risks for the resistance.
Ben Kagan
Ben Kagan
An older, gruff book carrier with an eye patch and white hair, who mentors Audra and Lukas with a realistic view of the struggle for Lithuanian independence.
322
Novel • Fiction
Lithuania • 1890s
2019
Middle grade
10-14 years
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