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Keywords

Excellent, Intermediate, Young Adult, Richard Paul Evans, Superpowers, Science Fiction

Document Type

Book Review

Abstract

Michael Vey and his friends are finding that their electric powers, gained when they were exposed to a machine as children, are growing stronger. Meanwhile, several of the electric children previously serving Dr. Hatch have rebelled and they now face Dr. Hatch’s deadly wrath. When news of their scheduled executions reaches Michael Vey, he and the "Electroclan" decide to travel to the islands under Dr. Hatch’s control to rescue (and hopefully recruit) the electric children. Although their plan seems sound, they are betrayed. Dr. Hatch sets a trap and it nearly succeeds. Several characters die. Michael manages to harness lightning and defeat the surrounding enemies. However, the book ends suggesting that he may have saved his friends at the cost of his life. This is book six in the Michael Vey series. This book is science-fiction, but it is also intensely character-driven by the choices and personalities of both the hero and the villain. The author’s writing switches between a first person point of view from the hero’s perspective and third person point of view to communicate what the villain is doing and thinking, but the writing is clear and easy to follow. While many young adult books downplay the emotions of teenage boys, Richard Paul Evans captures the raw and very realistic emotions of the protagonist Michael. While there is a cliché “it’s too dangerous for us to be together” moment between two characters, the characters overcome it while still communicating the emotions that allows the conclusion to be reached in the first place. There are a few moments with the villain where things get very dark. This occurs throughout the series, but in this case there is a reference to the villain preparing to eat the hero, so this book might not be suitable for young audiences. Aside from the dark moments, there are some very positive themes of loyalty and courage displayed by many characters, especially by Michael Vey, and those who have kept up with the series will be satisfied with its progression. *Contains mild language, moderate to severe violence, and reference to cannibalism.

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