This was as close to perfect as you could get. Very appropriate for Middle Grade readers. The intensity of forced boy soldiers is leveled by the humor and just plain likeability of the characters. It isn't graphic, yet the amoral military is seen by the kidnappings, the bigotry, and the bulliness. I never knew of Burma's sad history, especially of the native tribes that are being persecuted. It is still ongoing. #Myanmar #ReadingAsia2021