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readingnormal's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
bnkoehn's review against another edition
4.0
I've heard that the future is in our children, however, what happens if war makes our future in question? Ender Wiggins is, what most think, our only salvation. Ender struggles with being too kind or too cruel, like either of his siblings. It is about the struggle that most will face when making any major life decisions. I love how you get Ender's thoughts about his military education. How he sees the two ways to win battles: one is to defeat your enemy beyond them being able to get up, complete and utter defeat, while others can understand a loss with little additional sacrifice.
emilyb_chicago's review against another edition
5.0
One of the most universal science fiction stories I've ever read. I recommend this to everyone I know who reads and everyone likes it.
timeislikeariver's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
lannyn4's review against another edition
5.0
Awesome book, its kind of creepy in some parts but overall a good read. I don't know how they will do with the movie but I hope its as good as the book.
tomasthanes's review against another edition
4.0
This was a re-read. Much, much better than I remembered. Tactical detail. Story. Characterization.
dele_tubbies's review against another edition
4.0
Orson Scott Card's Ender's Game is a thought-provoking and intricately crafted science fiction novel that leaves a lasting impression. One of the most striking aspects of the book is the shock factor of how young the characters are. The story follows Ender Wiggin, a highly likeable protagonist whose complexity and vulnerability make him easy to empathize with. Exploring the depths of Ender's psyche adds layers of depth to the narrative, making his journey all the more engaging.
While the concept of the games in the book adds excitement and suspense, some readers may find that the repetitive nature of the games can become a bit monotonous. However, the occasional shift in perspective, particularly through the eyes of Ender's sister Valentine, provides a fresh outlook and a welcome change of pace.
Although I enjoyed reading Ender's Game, I found that it lacked a gripping quality that would have kept me glued to its pages. It was easy for me to put the book down and go days without reading it, which extended the time it took me to finish it. Additionally, around three-quarters of the way through, I became bored and lacked motivation to continue reading as I was hoping to read it as a stand-alone book and I couldn't see how it tied up the ends in the few pages left. However, the plot twists in the final stretch managed to catch me off guard, even though the first twist may be more predictable for some readers.
The way the story ultimately comes together is one of the book's highlights. Card skillfully weaves together various narrative threads, delivering a satisfying conclusion that ties up loose ends and leaves a lasting impact. Worth noting you can easily read this as a stand alone as I intend to do.
It is important to note that readers should be aware of the controversies surrounding Orson Scott Card, including allegations of sexism and homophobia. If these views are a concern, it is recommended to seek the book from a library or purchase it second-hand to avoid supporting the author financially.
Overall, Ender's Game offers a captivating exploration of complex characters, an intriguing plot, and a thought-provoking journey. While it may have some pacing issues and occasional repetition, it is a worthwhile read for fans of science fiction looking for an immersive and emotionally charged experience.
While the concept of the games in the book adds excitement and suspense, some readers may find that the repetitive nature of the games can become a bit monotonous. However, the occasional shift in perspective, particularly through the eyes of Ender's sister Valentine, provides a fresh outlook and a welcome change of pace.
Although I enjoyed reading Ender's Game, I found that it lacked a gripping quality that would have kept me glued to its pages. It was easy for me to put the book down and go days without reading it, which extended the time it took me to finish it. Additionally, around three-quarters of the way through, I became bored and lacked motivation to continue reading as I was hoping to read it as a stand-alone book and I couldn't see how it tied up the ends in the few pages left. However, the plot twists in the final stretch managed to catch me off guard, even though the first twist may be more predictable for some readers.
The way the story ultimately comes together is one of the book's highlights. Card skillfully weaves together various narrative threads, delivering a satisfying conclusion that ties up loose ends and leaves a lasting impact. Worth noting you can easily read this as a stand alone as I intend to do.
It is important to note that readers should be aware of the controversies surrounding Orson Scott Card, including allegations of sexism and homophobia. If these views are a concern, it is recommended to seek the book from a library or purchase it second-hand to avoid supporting the author financially.
Overall, Ender's Game offers a captivating exploration of complex characters, an intriguing plot, and a thought-provoking journey. While it may have some pacing issues and occasional repetition, it is a worthwhile read for fans of science fiction looking for an immersive and emotionally charged experience.
ikeeper24's review against another edition
adventurous
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
allieewh's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, War, Violence, and Genocide