Helpful Score: 13
I read this book when I was 15 years old. I read it again when I was 25 and again at 35. It keeps getting better each time. I will no doubt read it again when I'm 45 and I will get even more from it then. This is a true classic, one which will be read, studied, dissected, and discussed for as long as people care about literature. Though primarily sci-fi, this book transceds genres. And though the hero is merely a child, children and adults will enjoy both the story and the telling. If you haven't read this one, what are you waiting for?
While I am a huge sci-fi fan, I am often disappointed by books that have great story lines but hard-to-relate-to protaganists. This book is a joyous exception to that unfortunate trend. Ender is an incredibly empathetic character. That's not to say that the action lags - the story has good pacing and the ending is satisfyingly climatic. Definitely one of those stories you continue to think about days after you've finished. I've already ordered the remaining installments in this series.
Helpful Score: 6
On EVERYONE's must read list...it does not disappoint. They even do college classes on this book, researching nuances, and sutleties that abound in this account of a lowly unwanted boy that saves the universe, and doesn't even know it.
Helpful Score: 3
Lucidly written page-turner... In the near future, the Solar System is under attack from a race of insect-like aliens. The solution: select specially gifted children and train them to defend Earth through simulations in the so-called Battle Room. Six-year-old Ender Wiggin has just been selected, but the training is harrowing and uncompromising. Ender might just be humanity's last hope - if he can survive... Interesting look at what it means to be a gifted child, the social and psychological challenges involved in growing up different, as well as an exciting space adventure.
Helpful Score: 3
This is one of those books that changes how you look at life, and not just because a trick is being played here in these pages. Ender is a hero for people like me: people who dream of being a hero but can't figure out a way to do it on a great scale.
The two books that follow in the Ender Saga were a letdown, and I have yet to read beyond them. Ender's Game is a penultimate book; why go any further when you've found a book that rates (for me) the elusive ten?
The two books that follow in the Ender Saga were a letdown, and I have yet to read beyond them. Ender's Game is a penultimate book; why go any further when you've found a book that rates (for me) the elusive ten?
Helpful Score: 3
In my personal opinion, this book is by far the best in the Ender Series by Orson Scott Card. You will not go wrong by reading this book. Excellent, excellent, excellent!
Helpful Score: 2
I really enjoyed this, and i'm not a big sci-fi reader. It's on a lot of school summer reading books, and was the only one my non-reader brother enjoyed on the list! Very good read, and would be great for a book discussion group.
Helpful Score: 2
I found the belief in deterministic exceptalism trite. If only geniuses ruled the world without interference from the common people how wonderful the world would be.
Helpful Score: 2
I can see why Ender's Game has won so many awards, including earning a place among the Top 100 books for young people. Although the story is very sci fi, it's actually an interesting discussion on children and how society treats our brightest, gifted kids.
The book begins with the government monitoring six-year-old Ender Wiggins, a child born as a result of specific government permission giving his parents the right to have a third child in a time when more than two is unheard of -- and even a source of shame. His two older siblings are also brilliant, but weren't quite right for the government's needs. Ender, on the other hand, is a perfect fit for Battle School.
At the tender age of six, he's taken from his family for the priveledge of attending Battle School in space. He won't see his parents again until he is 12, but he is escaping the clutches of his jealous and sociopathic older brother, Peter, who is bent on killing his superior sibling. Unfortunately, he also has to leave his beloved sister, Valentine, the only person in the world he really loves.
Ender is a fascinating character. I had to keep reminding myself that he was only six -- like my own son. His genius shows through in every exchange, but Card also does a good job of showing that albeit exceptional, Ender is still a little boy. He makes mistakes. He has regrets. In the end, I was reminded of another child genius in literature -- Charles Wallace from A Wrinkle in Time. Both antisocial, both brilliant, and both fascinating characters I won't soon forget.
My only criticism abotu Ender's Game is that some of the battle practice scenes get a bit repetitive. They all serve a purpose in showing Ender's growth and development, but they wore on me a bit. I enjoyed the secondary story highlighting Peter and Valentine's efforts to stir up rebellion back on Earth, posing as adults on the Internet and using their superior intelligence to herd adults toward war - just to see if they can. It's great stuff.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and am glad I can say that I've read this classic. I loved the characters -- but wish it was just a bit less military-focused. I think young men will love this book, and anyone that loves science fiction should definitely give it a try.
The book begins with the government monitoring six-year-old Ender Wiggins, a child born as a result of specific government permission giving his parents the right to have a third child in a time when more than two is unheard of -- and even a source of shame. His two older siblings are also brilliant, but weren't quite right for the government's needs. Ender, on the other hand, is a perfect fit for Battle School.
At the tender age of six, he's taken from his family for the priveledge of attending Battle School in space. He won't see his parents again until he is 12, but he is escaping the clutches of his jealous and sociopathic older brother, Peter, who is bent on killing his superior sibling. Unfortunately, he also has to leave his beloved sister, Valentine, the only person in the world he really loves.
Ender is a fascinating character. I had to keep reminding myself that he was only six -- like my own son. His genius shows through in every exchange, but Card also does a good job of showing that albeit exceptional, Ender is still a little boy. He makes mistakes. He has regrets. In the end, I was reminded of another child genius in literature -- Charles Wallace from A Wrinkle in Time. Both antisocial, both brilliant, and both fascinating characters I won't soon forget.
My only criticism abotu Ender's Game is that some of the battle practice scenes get a bit repetitive. They all serve a purpose in showing Ender's growth and development, but they wore on me a bit. I enjoyed the secondary story highlighting Peter and Valentine's efforts to stir up rebellion back on Earth, posing as adults on the Internet and using their superior intelligence to herd adults toward war - just to see if they can. It's great stuff.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and am glad I can say that I've read this classic. I loved the characters -- but wish it was just a bit less military-focused. I think young men will love this book, and anyone that loves science fiction should definitely give it a try.
Helpful Score: 1
This is by far the best science fiction book I've ever read, and I've read a few. I can't recommend it highly enough, even for those who don't typically enjoy sci-fi.
Helpful Score: 1
Orson Scott Card has taken venerable SF concepts of a superman and intersteller war against aliens, and,withh superb characterization, pacing, and language, combined them into a seamless story of compelling power. A major SF novel by any standards.
Helpful Score: 1
Fantastic book - great plot twists. Very original sci-fi. I highly recommend Ender's Game!
Helpful Score: 1
Amazing! I loved it.
Helpful Score: 1
A very good book. I read it within a matter of days.
Helpful Score: 1
Liked it enough to look for the second one. It got slow in the middle but picked up again. It was a simple read.
Helpful Score: 1
It's one of those books that I could not put down.
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book! It wasn't a typical cheesy sci fi about aliens who attack earth. The characters were all fully developed and thus easy to relate to. It was interesting to switch between Ender in space and his family at home. It seemed almost like different time periods because of the culture changes and technological advances. The book also tied in military strategies, history, and politics, but in manageable doses so as not to bore the reader. There was analysis of the character's personalities and goals by those characters and others. I appreciated how much thinking the reader was able to see in more than one character!
Helpful Score: 1
This is probably one of my personal favorites by Orson Scott Card. While the characterization of the secondary characters is minimal, the main characters are beautifully developed. The story flows like few books I have read before.
I would not recommend this book to young reader, I truly believe that anyone will find it compelling.
Burningwolf
I would not recommend this book to young reader, I truly believe that anyone will find it compelling.
Burningwolf
Orson Scott Card is a literary genius, in my honest opinion. Within the pages of this book, he weaves the tale of Andrew Wiggin, aka Ender, a boy who becomes a military genius and saves the world before he turns 13.
You are drawn into Ender's world: his love of his sister, his fear of his brother, his desire to fit in and have a friend in this alien environment, and accepting & embracing his ability to lead. His achievements and intelligence are remarkable, and you find yourself cheering Ender on.
Then! Without notice, something happens that makes you realize that this character that you've grown to love so, this genius, this savior of the world is 6! 8! 10! 12!!! You're enraged! They can't do that to him! He's just a baby! Back off!!!
But you see, you understand, albeit begrudgingly, that the instructors, those evil adults, are doing exactly what they need to be doing because the world needs a savior and this one is in the body of a 12 year old boy.
Like I told my bibliophile grandmother: Read this book; you'll love it!
You are drawn into Ender's world: his love of his sister, his fear of his brother, his desire to fit in and have a friend in this alien environment, and accepting & embracing his ability to lead. His achievements and intelligence are remarkable, and you find yourself cheering Ender on.
Then! Without notice, something happens that makes you realize that this character that you've grown to love so, this genius, this savior of the world is 6! 8! 10! 12!!! You're enraged! They can't do that to him! He's just a baby! Back off!!!
But you see, you understand, albeit begrudgingly, that the instructors, those evil adults, are doing exactly what they need to be doing because the world needs a savior and this one is in the body of a 12 year old boy.
Like I told my bibliophile grandmother: Read this book; you'll love it!
Helpful Score: 1
Simply the most effective and profoundly character driven display of brilliance you will ever read. You won't forget it, and it will likely haunt your dreams, like it did mine. I can't explain why this is the case, other than the characters become real to you. You'll care for them. This book has the reputation of being a book for kids, but it is for everyone. You can read it, and you should. The honesty it presents is deeply disturbing and I guarantee you'll read it many times just to fully understand its intentions and ideas.
Helpful Score: 1
In my opinion, the greatest sci-fi novel ever written. Ender Wiggin is the best sci-fi character ever created. EVERYONE should read this!! 5 out of 5!!
Helpful Score: 1
This is one of my all-time favorite books. I read it when I was 15 (despite a general disinterest in the Sci-Fi genre, which persists today)and it suddenly clicked for me that there are some real gems out there--gems, which, if I never read them, will never be able to touch me the way only great books can. I'm not saying this is the next Illiad, but that it's just a d*amn good book. It made a reader out of me. I've read it two more times since I first picked it up, and I love the series as well (though I prefer the way Card ended it before he began writing the Bean novels). I've also OWNED this book more than any other, to be given out to those in need of a good book. If you haven't read this, pick it up and you won't look back.
If you're still unconvinced, let me just add one more thing--Orson Scott Card is a master with the worlds he creates and the characters inhabiting them. Since Ender's Game, I've read quite a few of his books. You truly do fall in love with the characters. And you find yourself desiring to jump back into the world he created no matter what you're up to. Enough said. I could go on and on, but I think this covers it. Have fun if this is your first Card book (as it should be).
If you're still unconvinced, let me just add one more thing--Orson Scott Card is a master with the worlds he creates and the characters inhabiting them. Since Ender's Game, I've read quite a few of his books. You truly do fall in love with the characters. And you find yourself desiring to jump back into the world he created no matter what you're up to. Enough said. I could go on and on, but I think this covers it. Have fun if this is your first Card book (as it should be).
Helpful Score: 1
Great book! Highly recommend.
Helpful Score: 1
Aliens have attacked earth twice and almost destroyed the human species. To make sure humans win the next encounter, the world government has taken to breeding military geniuses and then...
Helpful Score: 1
Good even for a non-science fiction lover!
Helpful Score: 1
Interesting sci-fi novel. I must say, however, that I had a hard time getting past the fact that the characters were supposed to be children from 6 to 12 years old. I just couldn't see children acting or talking the way they did in this novel (given I have an 8 and 11 year old). The characters were better suited to be 19-25 year olds. Anyway, if you can get past that, then the story was pretty good sci-fi although it reminded me alot of other stories or movies I have seen. The buggers reminded me of the aliens in Starship Troopers by Heinlein (a much better novel). And Mazer Rackham? wasn't he Yoda in Star Wars?
Helpful Score: 1
Super awesome book! 1st Science fiction book I ever read and couldn't put it down...almost used Ender as my 3rd childs middle name.
Helpful Score: 1
Great first book of the Ender saga
Helpful Score: 1
If you read just one science-fiction book ever, it should be this book! I do not typically enjoy this genre, but this book captivated my imagination, and I didn't want to put it down.
Helpful Score: 1
Ender is brilliant, ruthless , a cunning strategical master of every computer game (simulation) he attempts. He is also a child who is recruited to Battleschool in preparation for a real war of the worlds.
Helpful Score: 1
An easy page-turner .... loved it. Can't wait to share with my computer savvy nephew.
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed this but was not captivated by the story. It was easy reading and interesting.
6 year old "Ender" Wiggin has been monitored for the past three years. The world is in need of another great army commander, and they need one quick. Ender seems to be the best they have.
Through battle school Ender is going through physical and emotional battles as he is being shaped into who they want him to become, while battling who he wants to be.
Orson Scott Card is a brilliant author who has obviously put a lot of effort and time into this classic novel, and in result, it pulled me into the story and kept me there. His writing style is very simple and uncluttered, and the story world, characters, and plot are full of depth. I'm a huge fan of his.
Through battle school Ender is going through physical and emotional battles as he is being shaped into who they want him to become, while battling who he wants to be.
Orson Scott Card is a brilliant author who has obviously put a lot of effort and time into this classic novel, and in result, it pulled me into the story and kept me there. His writing style is very simple and uncluttered, and the story world, characters, and plot are full of depth. I'm a huge fan of his.
The book is awesome!!! My husband love this author and u're always held spellbound. We live about 45 minutes from Fort Wayne, IN and had been there one day for dinner at a family resturant. My husband brought his book in since i was doing some last minute research for a project of mine. Well unfortunatly we had all my books and research information packed up and he left his book there. He drove the 45 minutues back to Fort Wayne and then back home to Paulding, County Ohio - this tells you how much he loved this book and unfortunately i was only able to find it through a fellow book lover here on this site. So, if u're looking for intrigue and fantasy and all that mysterious sci-fiction and thrill and suspense and drama all wrapped into one - check out this author!!!!!!
Certainly one of my favorite books of all time. This story involves a boy genius that you can see a piece of yourself in. Ender doesn't want to hurt a soul, not even the ominous threat of the invading "Buggers." And when he's manipulated by those close to him, you want to be outraged, but know the future of this future world depends on his cooperating. Most of the story takes place in a battle school, deep in space. Where the politics between 5 to 12 years old is astonishingly fierce. Armies fight against each other in the game room, with laser guns set to disable those that it shoots, and zero gravity. Ender stirs everything up when he changes the standards. He makes it impossible for any of the others to keep up with his talents.
This is my absolute favorite Orson Scott Card book.
It was a very good book. It started out slow, but you needed that background in order to understand future events. I'm hooked and can't wait to read Book 2.
Couldn't put this down. A sci-fi classic.
My favorite sci-fi novel. Engaging, thought provoking and yet a easy and enjoyable read. I lost my original copy after several cross country moves and am very happy to once again have a copy.
One of the greatest works of Science Fiction. I could not put it down. Strongly recommend to anyone who is a fan of the genre.
A classic must read. Not an exciting sci-fi book but a good story with insight.
Okay, I'll say it, this book is horribly overrated. Awful dialog with a surprise ending that isn't a surprise at all. About as interesting as fake historical non-fiction.
I'm convinced people like this book because it tells you that being really smart makes you physically dangerous. It doesn't.
It's basically wish-fulfillment fiction for smart people. If that floats your boat, then you'll like it. For me, once I realized the conceit, I didn't enjoy it.
I'm convinced people like this book because it tells you that being really smart makes you physically dangerous. It doesn't.
It's basically wish-fulfillment fiction for smart people. If that floats your boat, then you'll like it. For me, once I realized the conceit, I didn't enjoy it.
I didn't know what to expect when I started reading this. The introduction alone sidetracked me for a week with the Author's mention of what inspired him. All the books he mentioned were unknown to me and all of that history behind how the battle room was conceived in his mind made think whether this book was a good match for me.
It took me only a short weekend to finish the rest of the story and I'm elated I persevered. The story is not a light read but rather very profound and transcendental.
I loved Ender with his duality as a pacifist and a killer -although he didn't know it- He wanted to please those whom he loved and even feared. He made his choice based on love and in the end it paid off.
I some point I didn't believe there was a real war going with the aliens but not other than a plot to unleashed a new military leader to end global war on Earth. I won't say much not to spoil the plot but I was sold on the whole concept when the connection between Ender and the the other specie finally connected.
I loved the story at the end, getting there I was not fully convinced but everything fell into place and I can see the grandness of the vision the Author has of us a race and the means we might employ to stay into existence even if it means children get pushed to the limits beyond those of the adults handling them.
It took me only a short weekend to finish the rest of the story and I'm elated I persevered. The story is not a light read but rather very profound and transcendental.
I loved Ender with his duality as a pacifist and a killer -although he didn't know it- He wanted to please those whom he loved and even feared. He made his choice based on love and in the end it paid off.
I some point I didn't believe there was a real war going with the aliens but not other than a plot to unleashed a new military leader to end global war on Earth. I won't say much not to spoil the plot but I was sold on the whole concept when the connection between Ender and the the other specie finally connected.
I loved the story at the end, getting there I was not fully convinced but everything fell into place and I can see the grandness of the vision the Author has of us a race and the means we might employ to stay into existence even if it means children get pushed to the limits beyond those of the adults handling them.
I can see why this is considered a classic. Quite interesting.
Hard to believe these are children.
Book is a great read. It was my favorite in Middle School.
My enthusiasm for Card's work has been dampened somewhat since I learned that he is a virulent misogynist and homophobe. It took another hit while writing this review, when I went to amazon.com to find the book cover image and page count, and found the author posting a review of his own book, insulting the intelligence of those who gave it a low rating.
However, when I first read Ender's Game in 2003 , I had no idea about any of that, and the book itself tells a fairly absorbing story. I loved the idea that a book could be written from a child's perspective without necessarily being a "children's book" specifically geared toward children of an age with the main character. I didn't see the end "twist" coming, primarily because there was no real build-up to the climax; it just appeared out of nowhere. In retrospect, I suppose the lack of rising action was probably necessary to avoid stretching the premise too thin, too soon. Most readers can accept the idea of a six-year-old genius being taken out of regular school and put into military school on a fast-track to soldierhood; most cannot accept that said six-year-old would have been sought out by world leaders as the planet's immediate and only hope.
The fact that the characters call their hive-based, insect-like alien enemies "buggers" is now oddly hilarious given OSC's political views. Was this a subtextual "let's exterminate the queers"?
However, when I first read Ender's Game in 2003 , I had no idea about any of that, and the book itself tells a fairly absorbing story. I loved the idea that a book could be written from a child's perspective without necessarily being a "children's book" specifically geared toward children of an age with the main character. I didn't see the end "twist" coming, primarily because there was no real build-up to the climax; it just appeared out of nowhere. In retrospect, I suppose the lack of rising action was probably necessary to avoid stretching the premise too thin, too soon. Most readers can accept the idea of a six-year-old genius being taken out of regular school and put into military school on a fast-track to soldierhood; most cannot accept that said six-year-old would have been sought out by world leaders as the planet's immediate and only hope.
The fact that the characters call their hive-based, insect-like alien enemies "buggers" is now oddly hilarious given OSC's political views. Was this a subtextual "let's exterminate the queers"?
One again, the Earth is under attack. Alien 'buggers' are poised for a final assault. The survival of the human species depends on a military genius who can defeat the buggers. But who? Ender Wiggin. Brillian. Ruthless. Cunning. And a child.
Excellent book!
This book is incredible. Card is superb at creating ethical dilemmas and complex characters. Even anti-SciFi readers enjoy this book.
OSC won the Hugo and the Nebula Awards, 2 of Science Fiction's highest awards, with Ender's Game. And this book deserves them. The story of a child who is recruited to train as a military commander for a beseiged Earth desperate for a military genius. They train him, play mind-games with him, hoping he is smart enough, tough enough, resilient enough to pass through the fire and save them all.
A brilliant story.
A brilliant story.
This is Book 1 of the Ender Quartet.
This is a book that defies description. While it is technically a sci-fi book, the social elements and main character development beautifully transcend the restrictions of genre. It is military without being excessively violent. It explores the nature of friends and family and sense of duty without sinking into cliché. It involves children at war without making it The Hunger Games. The strategic maneuverings in the Battle Room are absolutely fascinating. And the caught-me-completely-by-surprise-because-I-totally-didn't-see-that-coming ending is truly one of the best that I have ever read.
This is one of those rare books that can be read and re-read at any age (teen and up) and will only get better with time. It will speak to you in a different way each time you read it because it truly is a timeless classic, a precious gem among a pile of so many worthless stones. You dont even have to be a fan of sci-fi to enjoy this book (although it helps) because the story itself is so compelling.
I am pretty stubborn about reading a series: if I start it, I finish it. But in this rare case, I read Enders Game and stopped. It was such an incredible book, such stand-alone perfection, that I didn't want to ruin what it was by reading the painfully substandard work that supposedly came after. I have many sources to thank for that piece of advice, and I have chosen to listen.
Enders Game is a rare find, indeed, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
This is a book that defies description. While it is technically a sci-fi book, the social elements and main character development beautifully transcend the restrictions of genre. It is military without being excessively violent. It explores the nature of friends and family and sense of duty without sinking into cliché. It involves children at war without making it The Hunger Games. The strategic maneuverings in the Battle Room are absolutely fascinating. And the caught-me-completely-by-surprise-because-I-totally-didn't-see-that-coming ending is truly one of the best that I have ever read.
This is one of those rare books that can be read and re-read at any age (teen and up) and will only get better with time. It will speak to you in a different way each time you read it because it truly is a timeless classic, a precious gem among a pile of so many worthless stones. You dont even have to be a fan of sci-fi to enjoy this book (although it helps) because the story itself is so compelling.
I am pretty stubborn about reading a series: if I start it, I finish it. But in this rare case, I read Enders Game and stopped. It was such an incredible book, such stand-alone perfection, that I didn't want to ruin what it was by reading the painfully substandard work that supposedly came after. I have many sources to thank for that piece of advice, and I have chosen to listen.
Enders Game is a rare find, indeed, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
I've always heard Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card touted as a modern classic and a must-read for all youths and adults who love sci-fi or reading in general. Needless to say, I've always wanted to read it, but I've just never made the time. Since it was the book club selection for this month, however, I made the time to read it, and I'm so happy I did! The story is centered around a young, gifted boy (six-years-old at the beginning of the book), Andrew (or "Ender" as his brother nicknames him). It is set in the future, and there are many societal rules (laws against over-population or religious practice of any kind, for example) that do not exist in today's society. The primary goal of children in this altered world is to become great commanders in the war against the "buggers"--aliens who have attacked Earth and been beaten back twice before the book's storyline. Ender is one of the young geniuses chosen to attend Battle School, and as his prospects become more and more promising, his life and his goals become more and more difficult and indecipherable.
We LOVE this book! Actually, we had a first copy of this book, but it had been read so many times it fell apart, so we got this second one to replace it. Great series!
30 years after it was written, it's a little outdated. I found several things annoying about this book, the dialog at the beginning of each chapter and the political themes, but this is just not my genre and I read it as part of my book club.
Way in the future but very much about today and the way we handle our children. Engrossing Sci-Fi, spot on social commentary.
Although it's meant for younger readers, I fell in love with it when I was 24. A great story about a young hero in a futuristic military world. I plan to read more of this series, but it seems to stand alone as a one-time read.
I quite enjoyed this book. It was recommended to me about 15 or so years ago and I have finally just gotten around to reading it. I should have read it long ago, I'm glad I finally did. It was an interesting story. Ender's Game felt way less of a "Sci-Fi" book than it initially seemed to me. It was more a coming of age, war time book from an era not lived yet; featuring child geniuses! That being said, if you told me that before reading it, I probably wouldn't think that sounds interesting. Anyhow, the story was a great read, fast moving, and absorbing.
A solid SiFi read.
From the start I knew this wasn't a thing like the movie. American movie makers have to stray from books so much you can't tell they are the same thing. The book is rich in detail motivation insight plans and way. More adventure than the movie it is hard to believe little kids talk and think like these guys but read the prologue and discover why this isn't true for these highly gifted kids. It is interesting that this fiction has been used by the military and others as training! What better than the movie. Full of increasing tension and an interesting end. You should get his next book about Bean. That is a must read following this one
Haunting, chilling, and eerily written, Ender's Game is, simply, a mind game in itself. Where someone might usually feel sympathy for the protagonist, Ender is such a singular character that even at seven years old one merely wants to leave him alone and see him succeed in his task of defeating the alien force, also known as the "buggers." Personally, this is the foremost of Orson Scott Card's work (his subsequent books are mediocre, in my opinion). Ender's Game though, truly, is at the top of its genre.
Ender's Game was one of the best dystopias I have read. The pace was fast and I found it a "real page turner." The world building was well done. Adults and young adults will truly enjoy this book.
I loved this book from beginning to end!
Set in the future after an alien invasion, the world searches it's child geniuses for a new commander for their army to defeat the buggers once and for all. Ender is one of such children to be taken from his family, sent up into space, and trained in the art of combat at a mere six years old.
I liked how this book wasn't too in depth about all of the new technological advances that some books set in the future tend to go into. There's new things happening, but the book focuses more on Ender and his path.
Finishing it, I hadn't realized that this was a series. This book seems to stand alone just fine, but it's fun to know that if I want to catch up with Ender there's more to read.
Set in the future after an alien invasion, the world searches it's child geniuses for a new commander for their army to defeat the buggers once and for all. Ender is one of such children to be taken from his family, sent up into space, and trained in the art of combat at a mere six years old.
I liked how this book wasn't too in depth about all of the new technological advances that some books set in the future tend to go into. There's new things happening, but the book focuses more on Ender and his path.
Finishing it, I hadn't realized that this was a series. This book seems to stand alone just fine, but it's fun to know that if I want to catch up with Ender there's more to read.
WOW! I'm in awe of what an amazing novel this is! It blew my mind away! Orson Scott Card has definitely impressed me with his writing! There are so many great things about this book that it's so difficult to talk about!This has been recommended to me by a lot of fellow reviewers on Goodreads - saying it's great sci-fi and that I'd personally enjoy it. And did I? YES! I am so glad I read it; it was amazing!What made Ender's Game stick out from other YA novels is the great character development. Each characters is thoroughly thought out, and they each have such unique personalities. They all seem so realistic! Even the supporting characters have a lot of depth to them! I am just blown away by the awesome characters in this book! I especially loved the relationships between the characters. Specifically worth mentioning is the relationship between Ender and Valentine, Ender and Peter, and Ender and his army.
The plot is great as well! Protecting the Earth? An 11-year-old leading in charge of saving humanity? Alien invasions? I'm all for it! I love how Orson Scott Card just piles every aspect of a great science fiction story into Ender's Game! It's phenomenal! The pacing is great as well; there's a lot of action sequences. I also enjoyed the twists that were thrown into the story occasionally. The big plot twist at the end made me really reflect on the story as a whole - it DEFINITELY changed my opinion! Orson Scott Card is a great writer! The writing, additionally, was top-quality. Card is one of those few writers who have this gift to move people through words. Each word Card writes serves a purpose, and I love that!
"Sometimes lies are more dependable than the truth. ~Page 1I enjoyed how there was no romance in the story. FINALLY! An actually good sci-fi without romance! The lack of romance was not only logical (Ender was not even 12 by the end of the story), but it was helpful for me as a reader. There are so many sci-fi and dystopian stories that have romance and bad writing, but Card didn't fall for this trap! He intelligently withdrew the romance and focused on polishing his writing and characterization - and he succeeded!All in all, Ender's Game is a great sci-fi novel and I am so glad I read it! I'd highly recommenced it to fans of Emma Clayton's The Roar and Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games. Enjoy!(Anyone excited for the movie? It's releasing on November 1st and stars Asa Butterfield as Ender!)
It has been quite a while since I have read a good science fiction book. I had bought this book as a Christmas present for a younger friend. I had done some research to see what the younger generation was reading and admiring. "Ender's Game" had received a lot of buzz and I saw it was being made into a movie for 2013, so I told my friend when he was done reading it, I wanted to borrow it. Well he was sunk into some heavy reading for school and other books he had for required reading, so he passed it on sooner than I had expected. Long story short "pun intended" it had me from beginning to end, now I am wishing my life away as I am really pumped about the upcoming movie. Some of the characters can be dark, and at times its hard to believe that most of the main characters are children and the book takes them on into their pre-teens and teens. They are asked much along the way from the characters, so much so that even I as an adult might have caved in. The main character Andrew Wiggins or Ender, immediately you find yourself rooting for him. He is bullied at school and by his oldest brother, and is constantly an underdog as the story unfolds. Still the story finds Andrew/Ender bravely taking on each challenge from being bullied in the beginning, to tasks set at hand eventually by the IF to save the world and universe from "Buggers" or Aliens. The story is weaved well and at times you wonder where some of the content is going, be patient its well worth the ride from beginning to end. Quite a change from the fare I normally read, but making me think its worth taking an alternate route at times for a change of scenery!! I would highly recommend this book if you have read "The Hunger Game" series and looking for something similar yet different. Let me remind you that this book was written before "Hunger Games" so its not a copy cat. Quite a fast read, but slow down and enjoy that ride down an alternate path, its well worth the trip!!
Orson Scott Card gifted us with the far-future tale of humans versus the insect-like aliens, known as the Buggers. The tension in this book is kept high by never quite knowing what obstacle is going to be thrown at Ender next. Orson Card truly put together a twisted, harsh, thoroughly entertaining read. The story maintains a tight aspect of great need, the need to keep the human race alive in the universe. The reader often catches glimpses of the adults in the story privately regretting putting Ender, and all the other kids at Battleschool, through such hell. Having this human side to the procrastinators of the story really rounded it out and made it a classic.
Though I didnt think much of this book when I read it as a twelve year old, several people have recently recommended it to me, convincing me to take another look. Maybe my tastes have changed, or maybe there was just too much I didnt get then, but the second time around, I enjoyed Enders Game very much. The plot revolves around Ender Wiggin, an extremely intelligent, highly gifted six year old who is accepted into Battle School, an effort by the combined forces of the world to train up military leaders to combat an impending invasion by an alien race known as the buggers.
I liked the job Card does of getting us inside Enders head, helping us empathize with him and understand his confusion at the way the adults around him behave and his fears of becoming like his abusive brother. Though the ending is rather unsatisfying, it is the first in a series, which I will defiantly be reading more of. However, it also feels a bit rushed.
I would recommend Enders Game to si-fi lovers over the age of about fourteen or fifteen, and to fans of the Hunger Games around the same age. Though there isnt enough similarities to accuse Suzanne Collins of copying Card, they do echo each other slightly in theme and readers of one may enjoy the other.
I liked the job Card does of getting us inside Enders head, helping us empathize with him and understand his confusion at the way the adults around him behave and his fears of becoming like his abusive brother. Though the ending is rather unsatisfying, it is the first in a series, which I will defiantly be reading more of. However, it also feels a bit rushed.
I would recommend Enders Game to si-fi lovers over the age of about fourteen or fifteen, and to fans of the Hunger Games around the same age. Though there isnt enough similarities to accuse Suzanne Collins of copying Card, they do echo each other slightly in theme and readers of one may enjoy the other.
I couldn't put this book down. It is a wonderful book that I will definatly be reading again in the future.
This is the best book I have ever read.
This was one of those books everyone recommended but I always kept putting off reading. I finally picked it up and it sat on my desk for at least a week before I randomly picked it up one evening... and didn't put it down until I was finished. Many people say that this book is brilliant and that can sometimes turn you off of a book but I am glad I ordered this because it is indeed brilliant. I highly suggest just trying it out because, like me, you just might not be able to stop reading!
This is a very good book. It has a bit of vilence but turns out to be a good leadership book. Target audience is children but adults can appreciate the book.
What's fair when the end of Humanity looms? Good stuff!
n order to develop a secure defense against a hostile alien race\'s next attack, government agencies breed child geniuses and train them as soldiers. A brilliant young boy, Andrew \"Ender\" Wiggin lives with his kind but distant parents, his sadistic brother Peter, and the person he loves more than anyone else, his sister Valentine. Peter and Valentine were candidates for the soldier-training program but didn\'t make the cutyoung Ender is the Wiggin drafted to the orbiting Battle School for rigorous military training.
Ender\'s skills make him a leader in school and respected in the Battle Room, where children play at mock battles in zero gravity. Yet growing up in an artificial community of young soldiers Ender suffers greatly from isolation, rivalry from his peers, pressure from the adult teachers, and an unsettling fear of the alien invaders. His psychological battles include loneliness, fear that he is becoming like the cruel brother he remembers, and fanning the flames of devotion to his beloved sister.
Is Ender the general Earth needs? But Ender is not the only result of the genetic experiments. The war with the Buggers has been raging for a hundred years, and the quest for the perfect general has been underway for almost as long. Ender\'s two older siblings are every bit as unusual as he is, but in very different ways. Between the three of them lie the abilities to remake a world. If, that is, the world survives.
Ender\'s skills make him a leader in school and respected in the Battle Room, where children play at mock battles in zero gravity. Yet growing up in an artificial community of young soldiers Ender suffers greatly from isolation, rivalry from his peers, pressure from the adult teachers, and an unsettling fear of the alien invaders. His psychological battles include loneliness, fear that he is becoming like the cruel brother he remembers, and fanning the flames of devotion to his beloved sister.
Is Ender the general Earth needs? But Ender is not the only result of the genetic experiments. The war with the Buggers has been raging for a hundred years, and the quest for the perfect general has been underway for almost as long. Ender\'s two older siblings are every bit as unusual as he is, but in very different ways. Between the three of them lie the abilities to remake a world. If, that is, the world survives.
Slow to get into, but the characters really grab you, and you will not put this one down by the end!!
a classic of science fiction and young adult/coming of age, both. a fun read, which raises some hairy questions about family relationships, hierarchies, meritocracies, war, genocide and all that good stuff. highly recommended.
Excellent Book.
Not my favorite Orson Scott Card book - too much focus on battle and combat, very male-oriented - but Card is nonetheless a brilliant writer and this is hard to put down!
Loved this book! So well-crafted.
One of my favorite books, and probably Card's best work. Forces you to think about how society treats is most vulnerable members when it has something to gain from them, and what happens when the ends justify the means.
I can't say it was always an enjoyable read (children forced into violence and separation from their families) but it is one of those books that I'll always think about. What are the acceptable costs if the fate of the entire human race hangs in the balance? How much can an individual psychologically endure? Not for the faint of heart, but I am glad I read it.
Interesting sci-fi with heavy modern overtones. First published in 1977 and then often after that - this issue pub. 1991. Has a long introduction from the author.
Excellent book. On to "Speaker for the Dead".
Winner of the Hugo Award, the Nebula Award and an American Library Association "100 Best Books for Teens"
Soylent Green is made from people! Oh wait, that's something else. Nice bit of space-war sci-fi from Orson Scott Card with a surprise ending. Sixth Sense and all - don't want to give it away.
Card's best book. It is his masterpiece.
Ender is a six year old genius who gets picked out to join a battle school in order to be trained for war against the Buggers, which are basically giant alien bugs. The story focuses on what his training is like and the relationships he forms or wishes he could form with his peers and teachers. Most of the story reminds me of laser tag with no gravity and with certain extra functions mixed with football. I think the author seemed to dwell too much on Ender's time at battle school, as the story was interesting in the beginning and near the end of this time in battle school and going into the story about Valentine and Peter, the siblings of Ender as well as the later portion of the book when he gets transferred elsewhere. The overall plot in this book is wrestling with how to treat people and others. It was well done. I did watch the film a year and a half ago and will say that I liked the movie better (rare for me to admit).
This is my first Qrson Scott Card novel and I was pleasantly surprised. The character and story development smoothly advanced without either suffering. I ran through the story fairly quickly and was satisfied that this story could stand alone. I know that there is much more to the ENDER saga, and I will pursue it in the future. I will seek out more works of this author.
Great, complex, thought-provoking story - I'm actually planning to read the whole series, which is rare for me!
Nebula & Hugo Award Winning Book Enders Game, if you haven't read it you should. I does stand alone but is part of a series which could draw you into more books if you dare.
Good book
what a fantastic read, I don't usually read sci fi- but this one was fantastic.
A great story. One of my all time favorites.
Aliens have attacked Earth twice and almost destroyed the human species. To make sure humans win the next encounter, the world government has taken to breeding military geniuses--and then training them in the arts of war. The early training, not surprisingly, takes the form of games. Ender Wiggin is a genius among geniuses: he wins all the games. He is smart enough to know that time is running out. But is he smart enough to save the planet?
First, and perhaps the best, of the Rnder series.
This is scifi at its best! I'm sceptical of storylines and plots, but this book is teriffic. It takes some getting into, but is hard to put down once you're into it. Look for sequels to this novel as well!
Excellent reading!
Alians have attacked Earth twice and almost destroyed the human species. To make sure humans win the next encounter, the world goverment has taken to breeding military geniuses.
I was impressed. I read the forward, which reminded me of MY Navy days, but even though I was "fore-warned", I wasn't fully "fore-armed" for the direction the story went. Very good at gaining my attention, and def. worth the read.
Keeps your attention. Look forward to the author's other books.
This version is the most recent reprint of the book, I think to coincide with the launch of the movie. I've read/watched them both.
I find the book decent to read, although at times a bit distracting. This is one of those books where I'd love to see illustration. I had a hard time trying to visualize the supposedly impressive feat of the boy in the training room, to see whethere he's really that clever, or he's just cleaver because the author's intention is for him to be clever. Now, I understand that a book is mostly about the theme and author's intention, and the point of the book is not nitty-gritty but in the grand picture of the plot. Still, I would have liked to be convinced, impressed and swept away by the ingenuity of the actual setting, rather than straining to go through the description and eventually resigning myself to accept that "He's in, he's clever, he's outmanoevred them all, now they're pissed at him".
I do love the ending though, although I guess that's not very surprising. The plot and the setting are also nice, although nothing revolutionary for the fares today (it might have been revolutionary back then). There are some theme/references to the conflicts of those days (Cold War, Stars War) although the readers of today probably won't get. I love the name "bugger" :) I keep expecting some actor with English accent to say "Bugger off, buggers" in the movie, but no such luck.
The post-ending (what happens after the earth-shattering ending) is also interesting. It does have a touch of humanity (or rather, humanitarianism) in it. When it's mankind vs. alien, you know who to root for, but once it's all over, it makes you wonder: is man really kind? Hard to say.
The movie is simply a travesty of what's in the book. I don't remember much from the movie (it certainly didn't show any clever "Gravity"-styled manoeuvre I was hoping to see). The only thing I remember is that the ending of the movie was rather confusing and vague. If you didn't read the book you'll probably have a hard time telling how the movie ends.
I find the book decent to read, although at times a bit distracting. This is one of those books where I'd love to see illustration. I had a hard time trying to visualize the supposedly impressive feat of the boy in the training room, to see whethere he's really that clever, or he's just cleaver because the author's intention is for him to be clever. Now, I understand that a book is mostly about the theme and author's intention, and the point of the book is not nitty-gritty but in the grand picture of the plot. Still, I would have liked to be convinced, impressed and swept away by the ingenuity of the actual setting, rather than straining to go through the description and eventually resigning myself to accept that "He's in, he's clever, he's outmanoevred them all, now they're pissed at him".
I do love the ending though, although I guess that's not very surprising. The plot and the setting are also nice, although nothing revolutionary for the fares today (it might have been revolutionary back then). There are some theme/references to the conflicts of those days (Cold War, Stars War) although the readers of today probably won't get. I love the name "bugger" :) I keep expecting some actor with English accent to say "Bugger off, buggers" in the movie, but no such luck.
The post-ending (what happens after the earth-shattering ending) is also interesting. It does have a touch of humanity (or rather, humanitarianism) in it. When it's mankind vs. alien, you know who to root for, but once it's all over, it makes you wonder: is man really kind? Hard to say.
The movie is simply a travesty of what's in the book. I don't remember much from the movie (it certainly didn't show any clever "Gravity"-styled manoeuvre I was hoping to see). The only thing I remember is that the ending of the movie was rather confusing and vague. If you didn't read the book you'll probably have a hard time telling how the movie ends.
Ready to re-read it already!
This is the book that started card on his role. If you like sci-fi and haven't read this one, pick it up.
This is Book 1 of the Ender Quartet.
This is a book that defies description. While it is technically a sci-fi book, the social elements and main character development beautifully transcend the restrictions of genre. It is military without being excessively violent. It explores the nature of friends and family and sense of duty without sinking into cliché. It involves children at war without making it The Hunger Games. The strategic maneuverings in the Battle Room are absolutely fascinating. And the caught-me-completely-by-surprise-because-I-totally-didn't-see-that-coming ending is truly one of the best that I have ever read.
This is one of those rare books that can be read and re-read at any age (teen and up) and will only get better with time. It will speak to you in a different way each time you read it because it truly is a timeless classic, a precious gem among a pile of so many worthless stones. You dont even have to be a fan of sci-fi to enjoy this book (although it helps) because the story itself is so compelling.
I am pretty stubborn about reading a series: if I start it, I finish it. But in this rare case, I read Enders Game and stopped. It was such an incredible book, such stand-alone perfection, that I didn't want to ruin what it was by reading the painfully substandard work that supposedly came after. I have many sources to thank for that piece of advice, and I have chosen to listen.
Enders Game is a rare find, indeed, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
This is a book that defies description. While it is technically a sci-fi book, the social elements and main character development beautifully transcend the restrictions of genre. It is military without being excessively violent. It explores the nature of friends and family and sense of duty without sinking into cliché. It involves children at war without making it The Hunger Games. The strategic maneuverings in the Battle Room are absolutely fascinating. And the caught-me-completely-by-surprise-because-I-totally-didn't-see-that-coming ending is truly one of the best that I have ever read.
This is one of those rare books that can be read and re-read at any age (teen and up) and will only get better with time. It will speak to you in a different way each time you read it because it truly is a timeless classic, a precious gem among a pile of so many worthless stones. You dont even have to be a fan of sci-fi to enjoy this book (although it helps) because the story itself is so compelling.
I am pretty stubborn about reading a series: if I start it, I finish it. But in this rare case, I read Enders Game and stopped. It was such an incredible book, such stand-alone perfection, that I didn't want to ruin what it was by reading the painfully substandard work that supposedly came after. I have many sources to thank for that piece of advice, and I have chosen to listen.
Enders Game is a rare find, indeed, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
The writing style was not particularly good. That being said, since this was a Sci-fi book with a largely military setting, the writing didn't detract too much.
The book had two main twists at the very end, both of which were unexpected. I can guess slightly more then half of all book twists, so a book with not one but two twists I didn't anticipate was enjoyable, even if they were at the end of the book.
The book had two main twists at the very end, both of which were unexpected. I can guess slightly more then half of all book twists, so a book with not one but two twists I didn't anticipate was enjoyable, even if they were at the end of the book.
One of my favorite books of all time.
One of my favorite Books of all time!!! If you don't like Science Fiction you will Love Ender's Game!!!!!!!
great read
This is Book 1 of the Ender Quartet.
This is a book that defies description. While it is technically a sci-fi book, the social elements and main character development beautifully transcend the restrictions of genre. It is military without being excessively violent. It explores the nature of friends and family and sense of duty without sinking into cliché. It involves children at war without making it The Hunger Games. The strategic maneuverings in the Battle Room are absolutely fascinating. And the caught-me-completely-by-surprise-because-I-totally-didn't-see-that-coming ending is truly one of the best that I have ever read.
This is one of those rare books that can be read and re-read at any age (teen and up) and will only get better with time. It will speak to you in a different way each time you read it because it truly is a timeless classic, a precious gem among a pile of so many worthless stones. You dont even have to be a fan of sci-fi to enjoy this book (although it helps) because the story itself is so compelling.
I am pretty stubborn about reading a series: if I start it, I finish it. But in this rare case, I read Enders Game and stopped. It was such an incredible book, such stand-alone perfection, that I didn't want to ruin what it was by reading the painfully substandard work that supposedly came after. I have many sources to thank for that piece of advice, and I have chosen to listen.
Enders Game is a rare find, indeed, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
This is a book that defies description. While it is technically a sci-fi book, the social elements and main character development beautifully transcend the restrictions of genre. It is military without being excessively violent. It explores the nature of friends and family and sense of duty without sinking into cliché. It involves children at war without making it The Hunger Games. The strategic maneuverings in the Battle Room are absolutely fascinating. And the caught-me-completely-by-surprise-because-I-totally-didn't-see-that-coming ending is truly one of the best that I have ever read.
This is one of those rare books that can be read and re-read at any age (teen and up) and will only get better with time. It will speak to you in a different way each time you read it because it truly is a timeless classic, a precious gem among a pile of so many worthless stones. You dont even have to be a fan of sci-fi to enjoy this book (although it helps) because the story itself is so compelling.
I am pretty stubborn about reading a series: if I start it, I finish it. But in this rare case, I read Enders Game and stopped. It was such an incredible book, such stand-alone perfection, that I didn't want to ruin what it was by reading the painfully substandard work that supposedly came after. I have many sources to thank for that piece of advice, and I have chosen to listen.
Enders Game is a rare find, indeed, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Good straightforward scifi fantasy.
I did not like this book. I found it overly complicated and boring.
For the 20th anniversary of Card's Hugo and Nebula Awardwinning novel, Audio Renaissance brings to life the story of child genius Ender Wiggin, who must save the world from malevolent alien "buggers." In his afterword, Card declares, "The ideal presentation of any book of mine is to have excellent actors perform it in audio-only format," and he gets his wish. Much of the story is internal dialogue, and each narrator reads the sections told from the point of view of a particular character, rather than taking on a part as if it were a play. Card's phenomenal emotional depth comes through in the quiet, carefully paced speech of each performer. No narrator tries overmuch to create separate character voices, though each is clearly discernible, and the understated delivery will draw in listeners. In particular, Rudnicki, with his lulling, sonorous voice, does a fine job articulating Ender's inner struggle between the kind, peaceful boy he wants to be and the savage, violent actions he is frequently forced to take. This is a wonderful way to experience Card's best-known and most celebrated work, both for longtime fans and for newcomers.
Excellent read. Well written. Good story line.
An excellently imagined future world in which humanity is living in fear of a third invasion from the Buggers. They're starting children as young as 6 in Battle School in outer space, desperately hoping to find a commander intelligent enough to defeat the Buggers. Ender is one of these children, and the one the military has the most hope in. Card creates multiple scenes that suck the reader in from the null gravity Battle Room to the training videogames the students play. It's impossible not to suspend disbelief with this kind of writing. The ending is a surprise and just as creative as the Battle Room. Although personally I'm not sure I agreed with the final message of the book, it is open-ended enough for philosophical debate, as well as to make it worthy of a re-read. Highly recommended to fans of scifi and videogaming alike.
Check out my full review.
Check out my full review.
great book!
Thought provoking and compelling. Also see the parallel novel Ender's Shadow.
INTENSE is the word for ENDER'S GAME. Aliens have attacked Earth twice and almost destroyed the human species. To make sure humans win the next encounter, the world goverment has taken to breeding military geniuses--and them training them in the arts of war...The early training, not surprisingly, takes the form of 'games'...Ender Wiggin is a genius among geniuses; he wins all the games...He is smart enough to know that time is running out. But is he smart enough to save the planet?
HUGO WINNER & NEBULA WINNER! My science fiction crazy friend loves this one!
A science fiction classic, this Nebula AND Hugo Award winning New York Times' Bestseller follows a little boy named Ender as he prepares to save the universe.
This is an excellent book! The story is moving and engaging and you will not be able to put it down!
I'm still reading it but I can see why it is considered a classic sci-fi book. Ender isn't even 6 years old but has been bred to become the next leader in the war of the worlds against the buggers. When I started reading it, I didn't put it down for the next hour... It's a good read.
Not bad. Not a typical read for me, but I'm getting prepped for the movie. If this isn't quite your genre and you're feeling obligated to read it, it is worth the time. I haven't heard many good things about the author or the rest of the series, but I will go see the movie. I'm always curious about adaptations.
Sci-fi Hugo Winner and Nebula Winner
Ender's Game follows the story of Ender Wiggin, a child genius in a future where children are send to a government camp meant to turn children into military warriors.
A poorly written book with the most overtly "Mary Sue" protagonist I have had the displeasure of reading. Complete with not so subtle misogyny, a bizarre incestuous undertone between the main character and his sister, and a pseudo moralistic "twist" at the end.
