I do remember thinking that although Ender was supposed to be the hero, and his actions were justified, I thought that in many ways he was a little monster who reacted totally out of proportion to certain events. But like I said, I’d really have to reread them to be sure.

By the way, I see what you mean about the book being like two separate books. I remember when I first read the book, reading it as if I were switching between one book and then another. I just never paid much attention to it. It’s actually kind of neat though that you mention that because I think different people favor one story line or another. Whenever I think of this book, the first thing I think about is the piggies, while I know others think of Andrew as the Speaker when they think of this book. You’re right though, both ideas really could stand on their own as their own novels.

Anyway, it wasn’t so much that I didn’t like the pequeninos. They were interesting, and I’m definitely a Rooter fan…. I just found the focus-shift inappropriate. Or no… maybe unnecessary? It’s hard to explain. The point is, I’d have liked that aspect of the book if it stood on its own because it was still well done and everything. This felt like two novels to me almost.

Honestly, the fact that I’ve put so much thought into this book is an endorsement in itself, so I’m definitely going to try the next in the series.

Now go order your dumplings!