Known around the world for her Breadwinner series, author and humanitarian Deborah Ellis has written nearly thirty books for children and young people, most of which explore themes of courage and social justice. Deborah's many awards include the Governor General's Award, the Ruth Schwartz Award, the Vicky Metcalf Award, the American Library Association's Notable List, and the Jane Addams Children's Book Award. Deborah lives in Simcoe, Ontario.
Moon at Nine is a riveting tale of young girls being true to themselves and their love, set against a political and cultural backdrop few readers will have first-hand knowledge of. Ellis once again proves she is a master storyteller. Readers will remember Farrin and Sadira long after the final page has been read. Review by Ken Setteringon, author of the Stonewall Honor Book Branded by the Pink Triangle. Quill & Quire Ellis skillfully introduces readers to the social and political backdrop, showing in troubling detail how fear, suspicion, and historical animosities fragment Farrin's world and limit her freedom...Secondary characters provide fascinating windows into other perspectives and call attention to Iran's heterogeneity, creating a multidimensional portrait of corruption and cruelty, resistance and compassion. The Horn Book Magazine Sparse and eloquently-written, this short historical novel is both beautiful and heartbreaking. School Library Journal This is a thought-provoking story inviting readers to ponder the interplay of cultural, moral, and sexual issues in different countries around the globe. International Reading Association A firm grounding in Iranian history, along with the insight and empathy Ellis brings to the pain of those whose love is decreed to be immoral and unnatural, make this a smart, heartbreaking [novel.] Publishers Weekly [T]he portrait painted of 1980s Iran's political climate - and in particular the situation of gay and lesbian people and political prisoners - is haunting. Kirkus ... inarguably powerful ...A book study guide is included and will help encourage much needed discussion. ALA Booklist Basing her book on a true story, Ellis has written a heartbreaking tale of prejudice and injustice. **Highly Recommended** CM Magazine True to form, Deborah Ellis has crafted a stark, riveting and uncompromising account of life in a country and era that is markedly different from our own... Its heartbreaking and unflinching honestly will both engage readers and create heightened awareness. Canadian Children's Book News Moon at Nine is the romantic adventure tale longed for by queer teenagers prowling the school library for stories that more closely resemble their own. Plenitude Magazine a deftly crafted work of fiction...An extraordinary and original novel Midwest Book Review In this riveting love story based on true events, Deborah Ellis transports readers to Iran in 1988 just nine years after the Islamic Revolution... Readers will find this powerful book both compelling and chilling. Dragon Lode International Books As more and more states strike down anti-gay marriage laws, Moon at Nine is a chilling reminder of the suffering of too many others ... its importance is hard to deny. BookDragon, Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center an accessible text which can be enjoyed by a variety of readers due to its simple writing style. The author's note describing the history of Iran is especially useful to those unfamiliar with this history and the subject matter of the novel is one that not only encourages individual research, but also fills a large gap in cultural LGBTQ literature. Resource Links more than simply an LGTBQ novel or historical fiction...a multi-faceted hybrid that can be enjoyed by both teens and adults...It is powerfully grounded in the setting of Tehran, and depicts the beauty of falling in love and the cruelty and coldness of power in the hands of outside forces. The Ottawa Review of Books Multi award-winning author Deborah Ellis excels in creating stories of determination in the face of adversity and social injustice. Here, she presents us with a sensitive and passionate tale based on the true life experiences ... Beautifully told ... Quick Brown Fox A story that illuminates, astounds and perhaps will grow empathy for other cultures and sexualities. 49th Shelf This novel for teens at their formative age exposes the persecution gay lovers face worldwide today. Skipping Stones Magazine Any reader who wants to understand Iranian history through the experiences of young people who themselves are changing will find Moon at Nine a riveting, different read that rests firmly on compelling characters facing an array of changes. Highly recommended for young adult readers in grade 9 and up. Midwest Book Review Heart-stirring, believable, and ultimately heartbreaking, this is a must-read. Youth Services Book Review
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