Gone

Author: Michael Grant
Genre: YA Sci Fi
Grade: A-/B+


In an instant life in Perdido Beach, CA takes a bizarre and dangerous turn. All people over 15 years of age vanish in the blink of an eye -- while they are driving, teaching, farming -- all of them literally disappear right before the eyes of the children around them. Initially the kids hope for rescue -- since internet and phone services are also gone they reason that someone, somewhere has realized that Perdido Beach has fallen off the map quite suddenly. But their hope for help from the outside dwindles as night and day pass with no help. And then they start to realize that the animals have mutated. And worse, they start to realize that not just the animals are mutating. When your oldest citizen is only fourteen, what kind of society can you build? Who will be in charge? And will kids listen when it is just another kid talking?

I loved the lead characters in this book. Sam seemed very real to me. A likable, responsible kid, not a genius, with a quiet leadership style that was both appealing and appropriate. Astrid as his sidekick was great as well -- smart but not at all know it all. Both of them showed a proper lack of knowledge that fit with their age while at the same time showing a willingness to learn which really fit with their situation. Their interactions seemed natural too.

Little Pete, Astrid's autistic little brother, is the first autistic character I've encountered in a book who actually reads like he has autism. I like him and I love the way Astrid is with him. She reminded me of many, many older siblings I have known of children with autism.

The book was a little long but I was curious enough to see what would happen to keep going through the rough spots. The premise was intriguing and I liked the "Lord of the Flies" vibe which seemed to resonate throughout the novel. I really appreciated how the book dealt with the idea of good and evil -- it did not show the kids being perfect but nor were they evil or immune to guilt. I thought the author balanced everything well and showed a real knowledge of human nature. Not as strong as "The Hunger Games" but riveting nonetheless.

Tea: Black tea, no flavors.