ARC Review: Grenade

ARC Review: Grenade 

The book Grenade by Alan Gratz is arguably the best book he has written so far, two hundred eighty eight pages of pure excitement and thrilling history of both Japan and America. Hideki, an Okinawan student was just forced to fight the battle of his life. As bombs explode on his school as he is only in fourth grade Hideki has to fight the battle of his life. In the middle of WWII, on the small island of Okinawa American naval ships are bombing anything they could on the island. Back then there were no rules of engagement so if an American saw a Japanese soldier they could shoot them. The Americans knew that there were not allied forces on the island so they had the green light to bomb it. That is exactly what they did. As the bombs were falling, Hideki graduated early into “The Blood and Iron Student Corps”. Their Sargent gave them to grenades, “one to kill an American soldier, and the other to kill yourself” Gratz added. Hideki was responsible to kill someone. Hideki did not know if he could do it, but at the same time, he did not want to lose his family, country, and most importantly his dignity during the war. “For every ten Americans is one Japanese soldier” their Sargent screamed as he sent them to fight.
Ray, is a rookie American soldier. This is his first battle, and very well could be his last. He did not know much, but he knew he would either live protecting his country, his childhood, his life or die to trying. Ray faces many challenges along the way but none compares to the biggest one of his life. As Ray and Hideki unknowingly cross paths, they realize they have a lot in common, and eventually run into a dangerous situation where both of their lives are at risk. One will perish and the other will rise and overcome other challenges they may face. Read the book to find out what will happen and how Ray and Hideki unknowingly form an unbreakable bond.

Title: Grenade
Author:Alan Gratz
Publisher: Scholastic
Reviewed By: Patrick M.