Skip to content
News in a Click

Florida Virtual School Student Newspaper

Menu
  • FLVS News
  • STEM
  • Lifestyle
  • Arts & Entertainment
  • World News & Culture
  • Special Features
    • Opinion
    • Sports
Menu

Book Review: “Words on Fire” by Jennifer Nielsen

Posted on May 18, 2023May 18, 2023 by NIAC Collaborators

“Words on Fire” by Jennifer Nielsen appeared on the FLVS Book Club’s 2022-23 reading list. If you liked this book review, perhaps the Book Club is a good fit for you!

General Information:

Title: Words on Fire

Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen

Genre: Historical fiction

Pages: 322

“Words on Fire” is a historical fiction novel set in 1893 Lithuania, following the journey of a girl named Audra. Faced with the decision to carry on her parents’ work, Audra must overcome her fears and fight to preserve her culture.

Moments before the Russian Cossacks burn Audra’s home and take her parents away, her mother instructs her to deliver a package to Milda, a woman residing in another village. Along her journey, Audra meets Lukas, a boy her age, and discovers her parents’ involvement in book smuggling. Initially hesitant, Audra gradually develops an appreciation for books after Lukas presents her with an alphabet book. Meanwhile, the danger to Audra and her parents persists. Uncertain if they are imprisoned in Lithuania or destined for Siberia where survival is unlikely, Audra wonders if book smuggling can provide a chance to save them.

“Words on Fire” captivated me with its thrilling storyline. One aspect I particularly enjoyed was Audra’s numerous encounters with the Russian Cossacks and her resourcefulness in evading them. For instance, she saves Lukas from the Cossacks by using a snake to startle their horses. As the horses flee, the soldiers give chase. This book had me on the edge of my seat.

I highly recommend “Words on Fire” to anyone seeking a fast-paced and gripping historical fiction narrative.

Rating: 10/10

About News in a Click

News in a Click is the official student newspaper of Florida Virtual School (FLVS). Our digital newspaper is managed by middle and high school students who attend FLVS with support from our newspaper club sponsor and staff members.

Meet our team of student writers.

Around FLVS
Technology
Special Features

Archives

Tags

Art Birthdays Black History Books Challenges Coding College Computers Computers are a Science Famous birthdays Florida FLVS Courses FLVS Curriculum FLVS Students Food and Culture Gardening Halloween Health History Holidays Inspirational Quotes In the Spotlight Italy Language Mental Health Movies Music Novel Of The Month Quotes Recipes Scholarships School Space Special Features Sports STEM Studying Teacher Appreciation Teachers Technology Thank-A-Teacher Thanksgiving Tips Tips for Students Travel

Meet the Team

Our Staff for 2021-22

Follow us on social!

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

©2025 FLVS News in A Click | Design: Newspaperly WordPress Theme