Official Review: Wonks by William Reese Hamilton

[Ochieng Omuodo]

Wow! I like the way you focus on the intended audience for this book. Also, interesting turn of phrase; "Witty humor, adolescent sarcasm, and hefty doses of real emotion are sprinkled throughout each chapter."

[Dzejn_Crvena]

The best part of this book is the voice. Given that this is a young adult book, it has a specific audience, and the author’s tone and character development work perfectly for his intended readers. Hamilton’s skilled and astute choice of words and phrasing effectively capture the emotions and points of view of the characters. The boys’ youthful phrases and insight provide a unique perspective into the monotony, anguish, and perpetual turmoil the boys face daily in the camp. Witty humor, adolescent sarcasm, and hefty doses of real emotion are sprinkled throughout each chapter. While there is abuse, torment, and a shortage of food, there are also different kinds of marbles, boxing lessons, and baseball. In the dawn of adulthood, Johnny wrestles with many questions. How many will die before help arrives? Will he survive? What has become of his father?

Same thought we have! The author's writing style gives authenticity in the book.
I especially love their way of coping with the stress as prisoners, and they did everything to pass time.
I also laughed in many parts of the book, and it was like reading The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn if they lived in the Philippines during WWII.
As a Filipino, I can relate to the stories because I hear similar things from grandparents and war veterans who survived to tell the tale.

[Emjopin]

Beautifully written like a painting on a canvass. It gives the present generation who are so war freak, at least some, an image of a war torn world, spiritually bereft too caused by the rage and injured souls.
This book teaches how to find peace and friendship in the midst of chaos. There is always a glitter of light from within that seeks its own kind.

[Emjopin]

Beautifully written like a painting on a canvass. It gives the present generation who are so war freak, at least some, an image of a war torn world, spiritually bereft too caused by the rage and injured souls.
This book teaches how to find peace and friendship in the midst of chaos. There is always a glitter of light from within that seeks its own kind.

[Hannah Fabro]

It's a great book. I enjoyed Johnny's whole journey especially his journey about marbles. I also loved the life-lessons this book taught me.

[Bigwig1973]

I've read Wonks! You do a really nice job of setting the tone of the story in the first paragraph while introducing some of the important characters. You've also managed to work in a lot of information into your review without it sounding too contrived or rushed. I'm not sure how many books there are out there on this subject. I didn't know much about the Philippines, but I am glad to be refreshed/introduced to it through this book. Nice review!