Review: A Thunderous Whisper by Christina Diaz Gonzalez

A Thunderous Whisper by Christina Diaz Gonzalez.

Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: October 2012
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780375869297

Review: Touching, realistic, and heartwarming are three words that describe a historical and captivating story about a girl named Ani. She is just an insignificant girl who can't make a difference. That is what her mom has been telling her and she has started to believe as well. In the story titled A Thunderous Whisper, by Christina Diaz Gonzalez, Ani's life completely changes in just a small period of time.

Ani lives in a small town in Guernica. She is an unpopular, unimportant girl nicknamed ÒSardine girl.Ó Her father is the only person who has the ability to make her feel important, but he is off fighting in the Civil War. She is miserable and lonely, living in the small town. That changes when she meets Mathias. His father is part of a secret spy network. Ani and Mathias become part of the group, delivering messages to an underground resistance. Ani finally feels like she can make a difference. Then, one day, the Nazis bomb Guernica. Ani helps the survivors recover and take care of them. While doing that she gains a sense of her own strength. Ani is forced to move to England, but she and Mathias plan to continue to fight back as much as they can.

I love this book! I usually do not like historical fiction books but A Thunderous Whisper made it super interesting. I like how they would have Spanish words thrown in at some parts. It made me feel like I was part of the book. It really helped to have the glossary at the end. I think that this book should be targeted towards people ages ten and up. It gives the reader a new sense of confidence and freedom and inspires readers to make a difference as well. I especially like that Ani stays strong throughout the whole book. Even when her mother is killed, she does forget her dreams. Although she is heartbroken, she continues to push on. Ani is a great example for all kids. Ani is encouragement to anybody who feels insignificant. She shows that even though she is in a horrible situation that it is still important to be strong. She pushes through all her fears and weaknesses. I give this book all five stars. They are well deserved. Christina Diaz Gonzalez is a wonderful author!

Review written by Lilia (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of A Thunderous Whisper for this review.

Have you read A Thunderous Whisper? How would you rate it?