Words on Fire by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Russian invaders hope Lithuania will disappear by outlawing all aspects of Lithuanian life. Lithuanians rebel by smuggling in anything that maintains their culture. Audra’s parents are book smugglers and Audra yearns to help. Unfortunately, her chance abruptly comes when her parents are arrested by Cossack soldiers. Audra is left carrying a book her parents beg that she get into safe hands. While avoiding the Cossacks, Audra meets Lukas, a boy who leads her to Milda, another book smuggler and secret teacher. Both Milda and Lukas introduce Audra to book smuggling and teach her the power of reading. Unfortunately, the Cossacks are closing in, burning all Lithuanian books and the homes of anyone hiding them.

Based on true events, Nielsen highlights a forgotten piece of history that testifies to the power of the written word. When Russian authorities issued a press ban on Lithuania in 1865, they were hoping to turn Lithuanians into Russian citizens. Lithuanians fought back and the knygnešiai, or book carriers, were born. Audra’s fictional story begins 28 years into the ban. Audra’s parents keep her secluded on their farm to shelter her from Russian influences. However, Audra is soon left alone to face a troubling world using her grit to guide her. Because of her lacking education, Audra doesn’t understand how a book can be a weapon against Russian occupancy. That is until she learns to read. Soon courageous stories fuel her efforts and she passes that strength on to those who desperately need it. Nielsen’s powerful girl-power novel is a great introduction to a lost but important piece of history. A map showing Audra’s travels would have helped to showcase Audra’s heroic efforts in fighting for Lithuanian freedom. Appropriate for ages 12 and up.