A War of Gifts

by Orson Scott Card
A War of Gifts cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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  • ID: 6423
  • Added: 2025-11-16
  • Updated: 2025-11-16
  • ISBN: 9781429945882
  • Publisher: Macmillan
  • Published: 2009-07-07
  • Reviews: 3

A War of Gifts by Orson Scott Card delves into the early years of Ender Wiggin's time at Battle School, where religious observances are strictly prohibited. The story unfolds as Dink Meeker, an older student, defies the rules by celebrating Sinterklaas Day, igniting a conflict between students and staff. This act of rebellion leads to a series of events that force everyone to confront their beliefs and loyalties. /n/n As the tension escalates, surprising alliances form, particularly when Ender Wiggin crosses paths with a new student, Zeck Morgan. The narrative explores themes of rebellion, tradition, and the complexities of human nature, all set against the backdrop of a military training facility. The book is a compelling addition to the Ender Universe, offering a unique glimpse into the formative experiences of its iconic characters.

Reviews
The StoryGraph · 2025-11-16
mixed 3.00

The plot borders on being unbelievable, but the story is cute and quick to read. It's a short but enjoyable tale.

This reviewer found the plot to be a bit unbelievable but still enjoyed the story for its charm and quick pace. It's a short read, taking about 20 minutes, but it's a cute and engaging tale. The narrative might not be deeply thought-provoking, but it's a light and entertaining read that can be enjoyed in a single sitting. The characters and their interactions are the highlights of the story, making it a pleasant experience overall.

Quick quotes

    Borders on the lame and unbelievable, as far as plot goes, but still a cute story.

    A War of Gifts can be read in about 20 minutes, so it's a short one.

    I'm not sure if I would recommend it to everyone, but it's a nice little story.

A Leap in Faith · 2014-06-13
positive 4.50

The story is emotive and well-told, making it a worthwhile read. It's recommended for fans of the Ender's Saga.

This reviewer highly recommends the book, especially for those who have read the Ender's Saga. They found the story to be emotive and well-told, with characters that are engaging and memorable. The narrative is short but impactful, making it a quick and enjoyable read. They would read it again and recommend it to others, particularly those who appreciate the deeper themes and characters in the Ender's Saga.

Quick quotes

    Would you read it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes I would, and I would recommend it to others, especially if you've read the Ender's Saga.

    This is a short story but well told and emotive.

    You will like the characters and will feel good once you've read it.

Attack of the Books · 2013-10-16
mixed 3.00

The story lacks subtlety but offers a straightforward narrative with clearly defined characters. It's a quick read that might appeal to fans of the series.

This reviewer found the story to be a bit simplistic, with clearly defined good guys and bad guys, which lacks the subtlety they enjoy in other parts of the series. However, they acknowledge that it's a quick and engaging read, especially for those who are already fans of the Ender's Saga. The narrative is straightforward and might not offer much depth for thoughtful adult readers, but it serves as a light and entertaining story.

Quick quotes

    With clearly defined good guys and bad guys, A War of Gifts lacks the subtlety that I enjoy so much in other portions of the series.

    Still, we get a glimpse into the lives of the characters and their struggles.

    It's a quick read that might appeal to fans of the series.

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