The novel Gone by Michael Grant is a fascinating and world-building book in which teenagers no older than fifteen are trapped within their own community without the supervision of any adults. Now, many would think how amazing it’d be to be a kid without any adults, however, like Lord of the Flies, it quickly turns into a grim nightmare. The teenagers trapped within their community, a barrier blocking them from the outside world, quickly realize they’re not the only ones inside and comprehend what it truly means to fight for their survival. While I was reading this book I fell in love with the characters and their unique personalities along with their own responses to the situation. I enjoyed the action involved in the book and the small sprinkle of romance, though I’m glad the author didn’t immediately make the characters fall in love but allowed them to develop their relationships as the story progressed. It really was a roller coaster of emotions, some characters will inspire a love-hate relationship while others, the reader will want them immediately gone and question why they’re still alive. It also twists the moral standing between right and wrong, I couldn’t truly agree or disagree with the actions certain characters take in order to protect the people they love. I’d recommend this book to those who love a dystopian world that questions what it really means to be human. Overall, I rate this book a four since it incites so many emotions in me and left me wanting for more, though it does get pretty dark I enjoyed the horror in it and the light touches of comedy. This is the first book in the series and I do recommend reading the rest of it because it gets even better and the plot twists will leave you shocked as they have left me. This book, as well as the rest, holds a special place in my heart and I hope that others will be able to enjoy it as much as I have.

Review by: Michelle C.

Michelle is a volunteer for Teen'Scape and is in the 12th Grade.

—Amanda Charles, Young Adult Librarian, Teen'Scape, Central Library