Book Review: Munmun

MUNMUN by Jesse Andrews is a quirky, imaginative young adult fantasy exploring social issues ranging from wealth to inequality.

Designed for mature teens, the story is set in an alternative reality where a person’s physical size is proportional to their money known as munmun. Warner and his sister Prayer are the size of a squirrel, while the rich may be the size of large buildings. The story follows Warner’s personal growth, literally.

Librarians will find an audience among teens who enjoy dystopian fantasy with a social message. From the unusual vocabulary to the wacky world building, Andrews’ approach isn’t for everyone. However, it’s perfect for those seeking a thought-provoking, humorous, face-paced read.

Published on April 3, 2018 by Harry N. Abrams. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Tool of War

TOOL OF WAR by Paolo Bacigalupi is the third book in the popular Ship Breaker series.

Set in a post-apocalyptic era, this novel focuses on a genetically engineered soldier called Tool. Told through the eyes of various new and old characters trying to survive in a worn-torn world, the story explores compelling issues related to humanity, slavery, and moral ambiguity.

Librarians will find this riveting series to be popular with fans of dystopian literature. Teens will be particularly drawn to the timely issues including climate change and bioengineering.

Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Hachette Book Group on October 10, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: This Savage Song

THIS SAVAGE SONG by Victoria Schwab is the first book in a new monster fantasy series.

Kate Harker is the daughter of a ruthless leader and August Flynn is a monster trying to find his place in a divided city. When their lives intersect, they must decide whether they’re enemies or friends.

Librarians will find a large audience for this young adult fantasy. From the world-building elements to the sympathetic characters, teens will easily immerse themselves in Schwab’s dystopian world. Fans will be lining up for the next book in the Monsters of Verity series.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.victoriaschwab.com/.

Published by Greenwillow Books, an imprint of HarperCollins on July 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Flawed

FLAWED by Cecelia Ahern is a young adult dystopian thriller exploring societal perfection.

Celestine lives in a world that expects perfection. Those who break societal norms are physically and emotionally branded. While Celestine is considered the model citizen, she begins to realize that living a moral life may require actions that don’t mesh with society’s view of perfection. When she’s branded for an act of kindness and compassion, her life changes forever.

Librarians will find this engaging work of science fiction to be a source for endless discussions about the role of society and government in dictating what’s moral and ethical. Use it in a book club or even a psychology or sociology course.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.cecelia-ahern.com/.
To learn more about the book, go to http://fiercereads.com/books/flawed/.

Published by Feiwel and Friends, an imprint of Macmillan on April 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Big Dark

THE BIG DARK by Rodman Philbrick explores life in a small town after an apocalyptic event.

When a geomagnetic storm disrupts all electronic devices, lawlessness ensues and an anti-Semitic survivalist tries to take charge of their town. The situation becomes desperate when Charlie’s mother begins to run out of medicine. Charlie must trek 50 miles through the snow in search of the nearest hospital.

Although the bad guy is somewhat one-dimensional, the author successfully captures the havoc caused by the disaster. The themes of courage, tolerance, and personal responsibility are effective for the middle grade audience.

Librarians will find this quick read provides a nice introduction to science fiction and dystopian novels for readers seeking to expand their reading options.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.rodmanphilbrick.com/.

Published by The Blue Sky Press, an imprint of Scholastic on January 5, 2016. ARC provided by the publisher.

Book Review: MARTians

MARTians by Blythe Woolston tells a bleak, dystopia story exploring life in the near-future suburbs.

When Zoe’s public school is privatized, she’s fast-tracked for graduation and given the option of working at one of two super-sized, mega-stores. With her mom absent and her house in foreclosure, she moves into an abandoned strip mall. Although she excels at fitting into the system, she knows there must be more to life than her dead-end job in the rotting suburbs.

Librarians will find that this quirky work of science fiction strikes a chord with youth frustrated by the consumer culture and lack of empathy in today’s society.

To learn more about the author, read http://www.blythewoolston.net/.

Published by Candlewick Press on October 13, 2015. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: An Inheritance of Ashes

AN INHERITANCE OF ASHES by Leah Bobet is a gripping young adult fantasy exploring issues of war, family, and community.

Sisters Hallie and Marthe are alone on their family farm in the aftermath of a war. A mysterious veteran, the arrival of “twisted things,” and strange stone messages mark the beginning of a fight for survival.

This work of dystopia fiction has the feel of historical fiction, monster fantasy, and even the horror genre. However, at it’s core is a story of family, friendship, and forgiveness that transcends genres.

Librarians will find that this unusual fantasy appeals to a broad spectrum of readers.

To learn more about the author, go to http://leahbobet.com/.

Published by Clarion on October 6, 2015. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Fires of Invention

FIRES OF INVENTION by J. Scott Savage is the first book in the Mysteries of Cove steampunk series for the middle grades.

Set in a dystopian world where creativity is a crime, thirteen-year-old Trenton is constantly in trouble for what he considers as helpful and harmless mechanical projects. When he meets a repair technician who shares his passion, they set off on an adventure involving mysterious clues, secret inventions, and discoveries that will change their city forever.

Librarians will find readership among fans of The Books of Ember and other series focusing on dystopian underworld societies. It’s also a good choice for those wishing to enter the world of steampunk. Although there’s nothing particularly compelling about the series, its combination of dystopian and steampunk themes along with the promise of more dragons will keep readers coming back for more.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.jscottsavage.com/.

Published by Shadow Mountain on September 29, 2015. ARC e-book.

Book Review: The Scorpion Rules

THE SCORPION RULES by Erin Bow is a fast-paced, young adult, dystopian drama set four hundred years in the future.

Known as Children of Peace, the heirs of each country are sent to live in a boarding school controlled by the United Nations which is run by an artificial intelligence. If a war is declared, the “hostages” of the countries involved with the conflict are killed. Greta along with her friends Elian, Xie and other classmates are faced with difficult decisions when their school is attacked.

Librarians will find this science fiction novel to be equally popular among boys and girls. The balance of violence, romance, and life-changing dilemmas will appeal to young adults who enjoy a thought-provoking storyline with a twist of wicked wit. Fans of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy will find Talis’ dark humor particularly compelling.

Unlike many of today’s dystopian works that rely on adventure and violence, this story leans more toward classic science fiction storytelling and questions about the nature of humanity. Readers will enjoy the satisfying ending but still be thirsty for more books about the Children of Peace.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.erinbow.com/.

Published by Margaret K. McElderry Books, an imprint of Simon and Schuster on September 22, 2015. ARC paper and ebook.

Book Review: Lizard Radio

LIZARD RADIO by Pat Schmatz is a thought-provoking dystopian novel exploring issues of identity, diversity, socialization, and the power of free will.

Set in an alternative universe, foster-child Kavali is sent to an agricultural camp for teens. Encouraged to conform and become part of the cooperative society, Kavali struggles to find her place. Is Kavali a human or lizard, a samer or bender, a he or a she? Her journey of self-discovery will have readers asking questions about the nature of reality and one’s place in the universe.

The fast-paced story and fascinating use of vocabulary will quickly immerse young adult readers in Kavali’s world. By weaving in elements of mysticism and the paranormal, Schmatz keeps readers wondering about the nature of reality in this parallel world.

Librarians tired of the same-old dystopian adventures will find Schmatz’s character-driven story refreshing. The gender-questioning protagonist will appeal to many coming-of-age youth who struggle with issues of identity.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.patschmatz.com/.

Published by Candlewick on September 8, 2015.

Book Review: Hunter

HUNTER by Mercedes Lackey is a riveting dystopian fantasy for young adults.

Growing up in a remote mountain monastery, Joyeaux has been trained as a Hunter. Using a combination of magic, combat skills, and her own wits, she’s fought an array of monsters alongside her Hounds who appear from the Otherworld. When she’s summoned to protect Apex City, she’s immersed in a world where Hunters are treated like superstars and people may be as dangerous as the monsters she hunts.

From Drakken to Goblins, Lackey has created a fascinating world filled with amazing creatures. The well-developed characters are engaged in a thrilling story of sabotage and conspiracy that adds a layer of interest that goes beyond monster chasing.

Fans of The Hunger Games and other dystopian works will be attracted to the action-adventure elements along with the “hunter as action star” theme. The addition of mythological creatures and paranormal elements will increase the popularity. Librarians will quickly find a following for this fast-paced science fiction fantasy series. Lots of open questions will have readers looking for the next book.

Published by Hyperion, Disney Book Group on September 1, 2015.

Book Review: Icebreaker

ICEBREAKER by Lian Tanner is an intriguing middle-grade science fiction thriller that takes place aboard a huge ship traveling the icy southern polar regions.

After 300 years at sea and an epic Civil War, the crew of the Oyster is divided into three tribes. As an outcast, twelve-year-old Petrel lives a lonely life with only a couple talking rats as companions. The ship was originally launched to save the final remnants of knowledge and technology from the evil Anti-Machinists. However, memory of the original mission has been lost for generations until a lone boy is spotted by Petrel on an iceberg. What follows is a fast-paced story of survival and renewal.

Tanner’s skills at world building and character development will bring the story alive for middle grade readers. Her balance of interesting dialog with vivid descriptions will help readers visualize this unusual shipboard setting.

Librarians will find that this exciting adventure will appeal to youth who enjoy dystopian settings with elements of steampunk. ICEBREAKER is the first book in The Hidden Trilogy.

To learn more about this Australian children’s author, go to http://liantanner.com.au/.

Published by Feiwel & Friends, an imprint of Macmillan on August 18, 2015.

Book Review: After the Red Rain

AFTER THE RED RAIN by Barry Lyga, Peter Facinelli, and Robert DeFranco is a post-apocalyptic YA adventure with a hint of romance.

While out scavenging, factory worker Deedra encounters a strange boy named Rose from beyond their territory. The dystopian story evolves into a murder mystery when the factory overseer is found dead and Rose is accused of the killing. Readers learn about the red rain and the true nature of Rose, but the book concludes with the promise of a sequel that will hopeful answer some other questions.

While some readers may find the science fiction aspects of the story absurd, others will find them fascinating. Although the characters lack the depth of many YA novels, the themes and adventure elements will keep readers interested.

This book seems to be stuck between the children’s and young adult levels. While some aspects such as the rape attempt and violence are clearly in the young adult realm, the simplistic world building and social control feel more like a children’s work of dystopian fiction.

Librarians will find many readers for this quirky, post-apocalyptic YA novel. Because it reads like a movie, fans of the recent dystopian wave will feel right at home.

On a personal level, it reminded me of cross between Soylent Green and City of Ember.

Published by Little, Brown on August 4, 2015. ARC NetGalley and Edelweiss.

Book Review: Undertow

UNDERTOW by Michael Buckley tells the story of a clash of civilizations and the families caught in the middle.

Thousands of evolved sea creatures have landed on the shores of Coney Island. Met with fear and distrust, many citizens from the governor to street gang members want to drive them back into the sea. However, others prefer them to quickly acclimate themselves and join society. This near-future fantasy will keep readers wondering whether intelligent beings from different species can live together or will explode into violence. The exciting conclusion sets readers up for the next book in this highly anticipated dystopian fantasy trilogy.

UNDERTOW is likely to have broad appeal with young adult audiences. With just a hint of cross-creature romance reminiscent of the Twilight series and enough violence and conflict for dystopian lovers, this fast-paced novel is sure to be a hit.

Librarians will find this book to be perfect for book clubs or class discussions. From racial (or in this case species) discrimination and class wars to bullying, Buckley examines real-world social issues within the context of a fantasy environment. Teachers will identify endless social studies and history tie ins.

Keep in mind that Michael Buckley is known for his children’s books. While UNDERTOW is not inappropriate for middle grades, it’s clearly aimed at the young adult audience.

To learn more about the author, go to http://michaelbuckleywrites.com/.

To find out about the trilogy, go to http://undertowtrilogy.tumblr.com/. Be sure to watch the movie trailer.

Published by Houghton Mifflin Books for Young Reader on May 5, 2015.

Book Review: Breaking Sky

BREAKING SKY by Cori McCarthy is a fast-paced, science fiction adventure focusing on an elite military program and a hotshot teen pilot testing an experimental jet.

It’s 2048 and America is on the verge of war. Chase is among a select group of daredevil pilots at the United Star Academy flying the “Streaker”, a top-secret prototype jet designed for teen pilots. The strong female protagonist and eclectic cast of characters will appeal to both male and female readers.

McCarthy’s skillful mix of heart-pounding fight sequence descriptions with authentic military comrade dialogue fit perfectly with the book’s themes. The cinematic writing style and non-stop action will appeal to the video game generation.

Librarians and young adult readers alike will immediately see connections to books like Ender’s Game and movies like Top Gun. The futuristic military theme will be popular with fans of dystopian science fiction. The hint of romance and family drama will add to the appeal.

This young adult novel has been optioned by Sony Pictures as a movie, so this title will be popular for awhile. It’s likely that Breaking Sky will kickstart renewed interest in the military, science fiction thriller sub-genre.

Learn more about the author at http://www.corimccarthy.com/.

Published by Sourcebook Fire on March 10, 2015.

Book Review: Ashfall Trilogy

Let’s revisit the ASHFALL trilogy by Mike Mullin. After the final book in a series is published and the first wave of readers are done, it’s time to think about ways to market these books to new audiences.
This engaging trilogy is one of the more realistic post-apocalyptic series available. The books follow fifteen-year old Alex Halprin as he struggles to survive after a natural disaster involving the Yellowstone supervolcano.

SUNRISE follows Alex’s struggle to stay alive on the road as he tries to find his family. As he walks from Iowa to Illinois, Alex meets traveling companion Darla.

In ASHEN WINTER, Alex must retrace his journey back to Iowa to locate his parents. Once again, Darla plays a central role in helping Alex cross a landscape that is becoming increasingly dangerous.
Set a year after the volcanic eruption, SUNRISE follows the struggle of Alex and Darla to establish a working community in a post-apocalyptic world. Much of the book deals with the practical aspects of starting a new life in a hostile environment including dealing with cannibals and mobs, creating a stable form of government, and building a sustainable food source. Always on the edge of catastrophe, the community’s approach to building greenhouses, acquiring supplies, and defending themselves keeps the story exciting from beginning to end.

Also, check out DARLA’S STORY by Mike Mullin. This novelette has been referred to as the ASHFALL the prequel or Book .05. Set prior to Alex and Darla’s meeting, it tells Dara’s back story.

Mullin’s compelling narratives challenge readers to think about the day-to-day challenges of both short and long-term survival. Unlike many YA dystopian works that rely on games, aliens, or supernatural elements to engage readers, Mullin’s gritty text reads more like realistic fiction. Our beloved characters face the stark reality of their post-apocalyptic world with bravery, love, and hope.
Learn more about Mike Mullin and his trilogy at http://mikemullinauthor.com/

Book Review: Love is the Drug

LOVE IS THE DRUG by Alaya Dawn Johnson is a fast-paced mystery-suspense set in near-future Washington DC. 

Set against the backdrop of a global pandemic, prep-school teen Emily Bird becomes involved in a mysterious homeland security scandal made worse by her memory loss after an elite Washington DC party. This young adult novel involves a wide range of topics that will attract youth including romance, friendships, conspiracy, drugs, and disaster.

The plot moves quickly as the world dives deeper into chaos and our heroine tries to piece together the mystery of her memory loss. The author does a masterful job dealing with social problems, public policy, and contemporary issues facing teens such as drug use and college preparation.

The authentic, conversational writing style is likely to appeal to a young adult audience. Like many works of mystery/suspense, movement between the present and flashbacks can be temporarily disorienting. In addition, the story breaks down near the end as the author attempts to tie up all the loose ends. However, the overall plot is fast-paced and engaging.

The diverse cast of characters were skillfully developed and realistically portrayed. Teens will enjoy the strong female lead. Rarely do teen readers have the opportunity to see a realistically portrayed, independent, intelligent young black woman in a leading role.

Each chapter begins with a chemical compound. Careful readers will easily connect the chemicals to the chapter’s focus and students will be thrilled to apply their Chemistry class to the real-world.

With so many series books to choose from, librarians will be happy to see a stand-alone mystery-suspense.

Those readers who enjoy this type of mystery/suspense would also enjoy adult suspense novels by Michael Crichton and John Grisham.

With the Ebola scare making headlines and conspiracy theories everywhere, this book is likely to fly off the shelf.

Publisher ARC used for review