* "This is an important story that puts a human face on the victims of war and demonstrates that a love of books and learning is a value that unites people everywhere." - School Library Journal? "Winter isolates another true story of everyday heroism against a tragic backdrop. The librarian's quiet bravery serves as a point of entry into a freighted topic. -Booklist "Timely and moving." -Better Homes and Gardens "As spare yet penetrating as the narrative, Winter's boldly hued, acrylic and pen illustrations depict the frantic book salvaging effort against a bright orange and burnt sienna backdrop of bomb- and gunfire-lit skies and the subsequent, heartbreaking library fire." -Publishers Weekly "Created with strength and courage, like Alia's devotion to the books in her charge." -Kirkus     —