I read this book a long time ago, back in the days before Goodreads was popular and ratings were given. It had forever been one of my favorites, and when I did finally join GR, it was given five stars. When the second to the series came out, I realized that I could remember nothing of Finnikin and his story. 
 And so I began the journey all over again, and it was like reading it for the first time. 
 I remember thinking it back then, and it's still true today; Melina Marchetta does not recieve the recognition she so deserves. 
 This story should be talked about, given to others, praised. Melina is a master at her craft of not just writing, but storytelling. Character building. World constructing. The sheer genius of this book is enough to send my wannabe writing into a hole, never to see the light of day again. 
 There isn't much else to say that hasn't already been said by those more eloquent than I, but know that this is a must read. It is one to be savored, read time and time again and passed on to our friends and one day our children.