"The plot of this novel was new, exciting, captivating, and addicting. Readers will get "sucked in" immediately following the prologue." — Miss Remmers
From Amazon.com...
"Nine of us came here. We look like you. We talk like you. We live among you. But we are not you. We can do things you dream of doing. We have powers you dream of having. We are stronger and faster than anything you have ever seen. We are the superheroes you worship in movies and comic books—but we are real.
Our plan was to grow, and train, and become strong, and become one, and fight them. But they found us and started hunting us first. Now all of us are running. Spending our lives in shadows, in places where no one would look, blending in. we have lived among you without you knowing.
But they know.
They caught Number One in Malaysia.
Number Two in England.
And Number Three in Kenya.
They killed them all.
I am Number Four.
I am next."
Why I read this: The intriguing (and mysterious) premise with the extremely heavy promotion at BEA10 made this novel a "must-read."
Plot: The plot of this novel was new, exciting, captivating, and addicting. Readers will get "sucked in" immediately following the prologue. Don't google the author until after you've read the book — complete immerse yourself into the story (it's not hard).
Characters: I would say that the story is plot driven because of the fantastic plot, but it is just as much character driven! I loved getting to know John and Henri. I will admit that Sarah gives me an "odd" vibe (I don't want to give anything away so I'll leave it at that). I loved the relationship between John and Sarah, I thought it was very real and believable.
Relatability: I could definitely relate to John's apprehension to moving so much — it's hard on anyone, much less a teenager. I think most readers, young adult or adult, could relate to this story in one way another (hopefully not because they are aliens).
Cover: I adore this cover! It's simple but the mysteriousness of it adds to the intrigue of the story.
Random Thoughts: "John Smith?" Really?
Final Thoughts: I adored this book. I continued to think about it for what seemed like ever! I can't wait to do a book talk in my classroom about it! I had written an awesome review, but right before I pushed send (it didn't even save it as a draft), my Mac crashed. It just all of a sudden "couldn't find" the hard drive. I'm (slowly) getting over it — but just so you know, I had written (in my opinion) a brilliant review.
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Overall: 98/100 A
To the FTC, with love: Received from BEA 2010