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Infants in the Infantry
Novelist explores today’s world where children fight as soldiers
Civilized Savages
is so timely it is eerie.
Hundreds of thousands of children, some as young as six, are fighting in wars all over the globe. In centuries past, youngsters were routinely conscripted as drummer boys and flag carriers. In today’s battles, however, they’re firing AK-47s, M-16s, and rocket grenade launchers. And they are killing. According to UNICEF, large numbers of children under the age of 16 have fought in wars in at least 25 countries in recent years. What kind of a world is it that can turn kindergartners into killers, grade schoolers into guerrilla fighters? What about the seductive recruitment by militia extremists and cults in our own country? In Civilized Savages, author Susan Kaye Behm lays bare the hidden agendas and methods utilized by those who seduce young people into risking their lives so that they can kill others. The main character is Josephine Benson, a typical 11-year-old girl. As are most kids her age, she is delightfully oblivious to the rampant unemployment, runaway inflation, and other problems plaguing the world of adults. Following a knock on her bedroom door one night, Josephine’s childhood ends and her nightmare begins. A New Order is attempting to seize control in the country, and Josephine is one of the early and expendable pawns in this grab for power.
Excerpt
"Civilized Savages is a powerful and frightening tale of survival and triumph. This unflinching look at the inner workings of cult life shows the evil and depravity of those who would control others and the courage and sacrifice of those who choose freedom. The terrible reality of Civilized Savages will remain indelibly imprinted on the minds and souls of those who read it."
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