What do you think?
Rate this book
Blame
What happens when society wants you banged up in prison for a crime your parents committed?
That’s the situation in which Ant finds herself – together with her little brother Mattie and their foster-parents, she’s locked up in a new kind of family prison. None of the inmates are themselves criminals, but wider society wants them to do time for the unpunished ‘heritage’ crimes of their parents.
Tensions are bubbling inside the London prison network Ant and Mattie call home – and when things finally erupt, they realize they’ve got one chance to break out. Everyone wants to see them punished for the sins of their mum and dad, but it’s time for Ant to show the world that they’re not to blame.
A new nail-bitingly taught YA suspense thriller, from author of the bestselling ITCH series, Simon Mayo.
That’s the situation in which Ant finds herself – together with her little brother Mattie and their foster-parents, she’s locked up in a new kind of family prison. None of the inmates are themselves criminals, but wider society wants them to do time for the unpunished ‘heritage’ crimes of their parents.
Tensions are bubbling inside the London prison network Ant and Mattie call home – and when things finally erupt, they realize they’ve got one chance to break out. Everyone wants to see them punished for the sins of their mum and dad, but it’s time for Ant to show the world that they’re not to blame.
A new nail-bitingly taught YA suspense thriller, from author of the bestselling ITCH series, Simon Mayo.
472 pages, Paperback
First published July 7, 2016
35 people are currently reading
583 people want to read
About the author
Simon Mayo
24 books210 followersSimon started work in Hospital radio and later became a Dj on BBC radio 1 and later on BBC radio 2.
His series 'Itch' is closely related to best selling series such as Alex Rider & Jason Steed. Also written by British authors.
Simon was recognised as the Radio Broadcaster of the Year at the Broadcasting Press Guild Awards in 2008, and has won several Sony Awards for his work in radio.
His series 'Itch' is closely related to best selling series such as Alex Rider & Jason Steed. Also written by British authors.
Simon was recognised as the Radio Broadcaster of the Year at the Broadcasting Press Guild Awards in 2008, and has won several Sony Awards for his work in radio.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
March 13, 2017
VIDEO RECENZJA: http://bit.ly/p42wina
4 z bardzo dużym plusem
książka porusza bardzo ważny i drażliwy temat, daje do myślenia, chociaż dosyć wprost
na prędkość akcji nie można narzekać - jeśli czasem jest za szybko, należy zrzucić to na format, czyli to, że jest to książka "jednotomówką"
zabrakło mi tylko rozbudowania historii postać drugoplanowych
ALE! na wszystko trzeba spojrzeć przez pryzmat "targetu" książki - jest to młodzieżówka, naprawdę dobra w swojej kategorii
no i najważniejsze:
POSŁOWIE JEST ŚWIETNE, nadaje książce realnego wymiaru i tak naprawdę sensu jej napisania, nie jest to skok na kasę
4 z bardzo dużym plusem
książka porusza bardzo ważny i drażliwy temat, daje do myślenia, chociaż dosyć wprost
na prędkość akcji nie można narzekać - jeśli czasem jest za szybko, należy zrzucić to na format, czyli to, że jest to książka "jednotomówką"
zabrakło mi tylko rozbudowania historii postać drugoplanowych
ALE! na wszystko trzeba spojrzeć przez pryzmat "targetu" książki - jest to młodzieżówka, naprawdę dobra w swojej kategorii
no i najważniejsze:
POSŁOWIE JEST ŚWIETNE, nadaje książce realnego wymiaru i tak naprawdę sensu jej napisania, nie jest to skok na kasę
August 4, 2017
Trigger warnings: Abusive parent, imprisonment, prison riot, death, torture.
3.25 stars.
Here's the thing: I loved the idea of this. I mean, a dystopian world where you can be imprisoned for crimes that your parents committed? That's pretty freaking disturbing and great. There was a lot to like about Ant, the teenage girl who rebels against the system. There was a lot to like about her little brother, Mattie, and the other characters.
Where this one fell flat for me was the pacing. It took a reeeeeeally long time to actually get into the story. Like, I turned page after page on my Kindle and never seemed to make very much progress. And then the ending felt...rushed.
So I liked it. I liked the sibling relationship between Ant and Mattie, and the fact that they retained the Creole their mother taught them. But there was more contrivance than I would have preferred, and I would have liked a couple more chapters at the end wrapping things up. But still. It was a solid dystopian read!
3.25 stars.
Here's the thing: I loved the idea of this. I mean, a dystopian world where you can be imprisoned for crimes that your parents committed? That's pretty freaking disturbing and great. There was a lot to like about Ant, the teenage girl who rebels against the system. There was a lot to like about her little brother, Mattie, and the other characters.
Where this one fell flat for me was the pacing. It took a reeeeeeally long time to actually get into the story. Like, I turned page after page on my Kindle and never seemed to make very much progress. And then the ending felt...rushed.
So I liked it. I liked the sibling relationship between Ant and Mattie, and the fact that they retained the Creole their mother taught them. But there was more contrivance than I would have preferred, and I would have liked a couple more chapters at the end wrapping things up. But still. It was a solid dystopian read!
September 26, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from Penguin Ireland in exchange for an honest review.
Ant and Mattie are in jail but they’re not criminals. Instead, they are being punished for heritage crime - crimes committed by their parents. These new laws mean an entire new kind of prison system, one when children spend most of their childhood in jail and those serving time for the crimes of their family, nicknamed strutters, have to wear a strap to mark them out. When a prison riot break out, Ant and Mattie have a chance to escape but can they help bring the system down?
This was a really good book, and really different to other YA books I’ve read in my opinion. First off, Ant is a fantastic character - she’s tough ad strong but has a strong sense of ideals and values she upholds to and she’s relatable in how she cares for her foster parents and little brother. It also helps that she just sounds really cool with her shaved head and goose tattoos.
The world building in this was fantastic. I really got a sense of the prison system and how it worked and the flashbacks we got served their purpose really well in the introduction of the heritage crime laws and how they came about and were actually received and carried out.
I love that Ant and Mattie were bi-racial but that we learned about this more from their language rather than constant mentions of their skin colour. I actually found the frequent uses of Haitian-Creole between Ant and Mattie really soothing, and it helped to confirm the lovely bond between the two. There’s isn’t too much of an emphasis on romance in this book - it’s clear a few male characters might have some feelings for Ant but she’s pretty realistic in that there’s way too many things going on for her to actually focus on romance and I loved that.
Some of the decisions by the characters didn’t make that much sense to me near the end but I think it was because i would have logically just tried to get to Germany and safety rather than try and rescue everyone else in what seems like a futile attempt. There was a great sense of tension and urgency throughout the book which made it a fast-paced, exciting read that really kept me on the edge of my seat. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Ant and Mattie are in jail but they’re not criminals. Instead, they are being punished for heritage crime - crimes committed by their parents. These new laws mean an entire new kind of prison system, one when children spend most of their childhood in jail and those serving time for the crimes of their family, nicknamed strutters, have to wear a strap to mark them out. When a prison riot break out, Ant and Mattie have a chance to escape but can they help bring the system down?
This was a really good book, and really different to other YA books I’ve read in my opinion. First off, Ant is a fantastic character - she’s tough ad strong but has a strong sense of ideals and values she upholds to and she’s relatable in how she cares for her foster parents and little brother. It also helps that she just sounds really cool with her shaved head and goose tattoos.
The world building in this was fantastic. I really got a sense of the prison system and how it worked and the flashbacks we got served their purpose really well in the introduction of the heritage crime laws and how they came about and were actually received and carried out.
I love that Ant and Mattie were bi-racial but that we learned about this more from their language rather than constant mentions of their skin colour. I actually found the frequent uses of Haitian-Creole between Ant and Mattie really soothing, and it helped to confirm the lovely bond between the two. There’s isn’t too much of an emphasis on romance in this book - it’s clear a few male characters might have some feelings for Ant but she’s pretty realistic in that there’s way too many things going on for her to actually focus on romance and I loved that.
Some of the decisions by the characters didn’t make that much sense to me near the end but I think it was because i would have logically just tried to get to Germany and safety rather than try and rescue everyone else in what seems like a futile attempt. There was a great sense of tension and urgency throughout the book which made it a fast-paced, exciting read that really kept me on the edge of my seat. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
February 28, 2017
This was good, but I didn't love it - a sad dystopian world that would actually happen if we let fear and anger get in the way of our societies emotions.
While at some points I could not put it down, I still really only liked this a lot, rather than loved. I wish I could put 3.5 stars, not just 3....
There could easily be a sequel to this.
While at some points I could not put it down, I still really only liked this a lot, rather than loved. I wish I could put 3.5 stars, not just 3....
There could easily be a sequel to this.
March 9, 2017
I hate giving out one stars, makes me feel awful. This wasn't a terrible book, I just didn't like it. I didn't connect with the characters, and I found the plot was a little slow. I ended up giving up at about chapter 11, perhaps it would have improved from that point on.
November 24, 2016
Blame is excellent YA fiction and every bit as nail-biting as promised. 4/5 stars.
This review was originally posted on my book blog.
Set in a near future, Blame is founded on a simple and terrifyingly believable premise: backed by a resentful populace, the UK government begins to prosecute and imprison people for crimes their parents committed but weren’t punished for. If those prosecuted have children under the age of 18, these children will be imprisoned with them. This idea of “heritage crime” places the characters in a sympathetic situation: they are imprisoned and subject to hate and harassment, but innocent of any wrongdoing.
And those characters are all wonderful. The main character, Ant, is particularly likeable as a brave, angry and reckless teen doing her best to keep her adorable little brother safe.
The story is also far more action-packed than I had expected. There were two extended sections in the prison which had me on the edge of my seat. I read the book in two sittings because I was unwilling to put it down.
There were many details I liked, including the way that German has become the language of freedom and the resistance because the Germans are the only nation who have managed to learn anything from early twentieth-century history. Given recent events in world politics, I feel this is all becoming scarily prescient.
The only reason I haven’t given Blame 5 stars was because the finale felt slightly anti-climactic. Perhaps this was inevitable after the author had such great success in ratcheting up the tension in the rest of the book.
Overall: intriguing, relevant ideas coupled with fantastic action sequences. Highly recommended for fans of YA dystopian fiction or anyone looking to read something outside their comfort zone.
This review was originally posted on my book blog.
Set in a near future, Blame is founded on a simple and terrifyingly believable premise: backed by a resentful populace, the UK government begins to prosecute and imprison people for crimes their parents committed but weren’t punished for. If those prosecuted have children under the age of 18, these children will be imprisoned with them. This idea of “heritage crime” places the characters in a sympathetic situation: they are imprisoned and subject to hate and harassment, but innocent of any wrongdoing.
And those characters are all wonderful. The main character, Ant, is particularly likeable as a brave, angry and reckless teen doing her best to keep her adorable little brother safe.
The story is also far more action-packed than I had expected. There were two extended sections in the prison which had me on the edge of my seat. I read the book in two sittings because I was unwilling to put it down.
There were many details I liked, including the way that German has become the language of freedom and the resistance because the Germans are the only nation who have managed to learn anything from early twentieth-century history. Given recent events in world politics, I feel this is all becoming scarily prescient.
The only reason I haven’t given Blame 5 stars was because the finale felt slightly anti-climactic. Perhaps this was inevitable after the author had such great success in ratcheting up the tension in the rest of the book.
Overall: intriguing, relevant ideas coupled with fantastic action sequences. Highly recommended for fans of YA dystopian fiction or anyone looking to read something outside their comfort zone.
August 24, 2016
Took me a little while to get into it, but then was gripped. Cleverly written short chapters that always end on a cliffhanger - in some books this would get annoying, but it kept me turning the pages. The concept of a society that was so caught up with blame that it imprisoned the relatives of criminals is really interesting, but in reality this is more of an action/escape story. The idea of scapegoating taken to extremes is not really explored fully - it is more of a backdrop to the well-written action.
December 12, 2016
3.5/5 - Broadcaster Simon Mayo's first venture into YA is overall a success, would easily be tempted to read more.
The idea that teenagers can serve their parents unpunished crimes is a really interesting idea, very thought provoking.
Did have a few issues with pacing with a slight lull in the story but overall and interesting fun read.
The idea that teenagers can serve their parents unpunished crimes is a really interesting idea, very thought provoking.
Did have a few issues with pacing with a slight lull in the story but overall and interesting fun read.
November 20, 2017
The first thing that struck me on picking up the book was the authors name - as in Simon Mayo the radio DJ - as it turns out - the one and same.
The second was the story line, never come across anything like it before so nice to see something fresh. On the whole it wasn't a bad read, maybe a bit slow to start, but overall a fairly quick read. I liked the fact the fact although they were in prison for crimes of their parents, and therefore innocent they were by no means perfect. I think it's aimed at the YA market as it is quite simply told, and the twists were fairly obvious, however it is quite dark at points.
The second was the story line, never come across anything like it before so nice to see something fresh. On the whole it wasn't a bad read, maybe a bit slow to start, but overall a fairly quick read. I liked the fact the fact although they were in prison for crimes of their parents, and therefore innocent they were by no means perfect. I think it's aimed at the YA market as it is quite simply told, and the twists were fairly obvious, however it is quite dark at points.
April 9, 2017
It was OK, but felt totally unrealistic. I didn't believe in any of the characters or the plot and their decisions were stupid. I could not see any reason why the 'normal' prisoners would hate the 'strutters', which seemed fairly crucial to the plot progression. The central character was not likeable. There were some good moments of tension, but these were overshadowed by the unlikely nature of it all. Probably good for younger teenagers who don't question things too much.
July 4, 2018
Interesting idea, didn't really connect with the characters though and it felt a bit rushed.
August 26, 2023
Trage start, maar oh zo spannend naar het einde toe 👍🏻👍🏻
shelved
June 3, 2017DNF at page 347. I quite enjoyed this, although it did seem to drag on. I just lost interest in finding out what happened. It's been a year now, so I'm calling it quits.
March 26, 2022
Naprawdę fajna młodzieżówka, chociaż miałam wrażenie, że im dalej tym gorzej. Z początku bardzo podobał mi się wykreowany świat, ale potem stał sie on za bardzo chaotyczny.
November 6, 2021
Brilliant writing! Is there anything Mayo can’t go? He weaves a brilliant tale in a brilliant version of reality that is utterly believable and terrifying. Wonderful fiction for any age.
October 11, 2016
Okay, so this is going to be a long one because I had so many issues with this book. Before I start that I just want to say that I really, really wanted to enjoy this. I really did. The premise is intriguing, and the first few chapters really pulled me in, but after that, I just lost interest (the book actually put me into one of the longest reading slumps I've been in). I would also like to point out that I took a month break from this book halfway through so if I've written anything wrong or forgotten details let me know and I can remove/change them. So here goes, and I apologise because there is a lot and they aren't in any specific order:
First of all, who was writing the little diary entries/wish lists/letters/whatever the hell they were at the beginning of each chapter? At first I was extremely confused because despite the novel not being narrated BY Ant, she is certainly the focus of the novel. Only her thoughts and feelings are conveyed to us through the narrating voice (apart from the few chapters from Max's perspective but just ignore these for this point, Ant couldn't exactly interact with him while he was in Germany). This continued to confuse me throughout the book, and towards the end of the novel I came to the conclusion that it must be from Mattie's journal that he kept, however this isn't referenced often at all. This wasn't confirmed so I'm still not entirely sure.
Another issue I had with the novel was the lack of emotion from characters (apart from rage, which most of the characters seemed to be in a constant state of). An example of this was when Jimmy and Daisy were hit with the tasers and taken by the PO's, there was very little emotional response from ANY of the other characters. I think they were mentioned once, asking where they were and that was it. This happened again when Dan and Gina were confirmed to be dead (after a long few chapters of anticipation to find out if they were going to live or not), Ant and Max shed a few tears then the parents were never mentioned again. Overall, I felt that the emotional scenes and the fight scenes were skipped over quickly due to the fact that the plot had to be progressed quickly (I personally enjoyed the plot itself, my issues lay with the way it was executed, however the book could have been more enjoyable if made into a series or a duo).
ANT STARTED THE RIOT THAT KILLED MOST OF THE PRISON. I'M SORRY BUT THAT'S THE TRUTH. All of the characters kept standing up for her and saying she 100% didn't cause it, but I'm sorry, she totally encouraged the other prisoners to riot and she practically asked for the huge scene in the novel where she's surrounded by other prisoners.
the whole house scene where they were helping Jimmy heal and hiding from the authorities was also irritating and unrealistic. Cue Ant and Mattie breaking into a house flawlessly and disarming the alarm without a hitch. And they've only done this 'once or twice' before they went to prison (about 5 years ago if I'm remembering right?). No. Sorry, but no that wouldn't happen.
Despite this, the book's final few chapters were very fast-paced and I flew through them. Apart from the issues I've spoken about, the book was probably about 3 stars, but the amount of flaws, along with the reading slump the book actually PUT ME INTO, it was alright. Simon Mayo is very talented writer, especially at the suspense scenes (that scene with Ant, Mattie and Max in the container with their dad dragging the gun along the outside actually gave me chills to read). But unfortunately this book just wasn't for me.
First of all, who was writing the little diary entries/wish lists/letters/whatever the hell they were at the beginning of each chapter? At first I was extremely confused because despite the novel not being narrated BY Ant, she is certainly the focus of the novel. Only her thoughts and feelings are conveyed to us through the narrating voice (apart from the few chapters from Max's perspective but just ignore these for this point, Ant couldn't exactly interact with him while he was in Germany). This continued to confuse me throughout the book, and towards the end of the novel I came to the conclusion that it must be from Mattie's journal that he kept, however this isn't referenced often at all. This wasn't confirmed so I'm still not entirely sure.
Another issue I had with the novel was the lack of emotion from characters (apart from rage, which most of the characters seemed to be in a constant state of). An example of this was when Jimmy and Daisy were hit with the tasers and taken by the PO's, there was very little emotional response from ANY of the other characters. I think they were mentioned once, asking where they were and that was it. This happened again when Dan and Gina were confirmed to be dead (after a long few chapters of anticipation to find out if they were going to live or not), Ant and Max shed a few tears then the parents were never mentioned again. Overall, I felt that the emotional scenes and the fight scenes were skipped over quickly due to the fact that the plot had to be progressed quickly (I personally enjoyed the plot itself, my issues lay with the way it was executed, however the book could have been more enjoyable if made into a series or a duo).
ANT STARTED THE RIOT THAT KILLED MOST OF THE PRISON. I'M SORRY BUT THAT'S THE TRUTH. All of the characters kept standing up for her and saying she 100% didn't cause it, but I'm sorry, she totally encouraged the other prisoners to riot and she practically asked for the huge scene in the novel where she's surrounded by other prisoners.
the whole house scene where they were helping Jimmy heal and hiding from the authorities was also irritating and unrealistic. Cue Ant and Mattie breaking into a house flawlessly and disarming the alarm without a hitch. And they've only done this 'once or twice' before they went to prison (about 5 years ago if I'm remembering right?). No. Sorry, but no that wouldn't happen.
Despite this, the book's final few chapters were very fast-paced and I flew through them. Apart from the issues I've spoken about, the book was probably about 3 stars, but the amount of flaws, along with the reading slump the book actually PUT ME INTO, it was alright. Simon Mayo is very talented writer, especially at the suspense scenes (that scene with Ant, Mattie and Max in the container with their dad dragging the gun along the outside actually gave me chills to read). But unfortunately this book just wasn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2016
WHEN THE BLAME CULTURE GOES TOO FAR...
"Blame" is Simon Mayo's highly entertaining fourth novel. It is about a time, in the near future, when a devastating "Hurricane" recession has led to families being imprisoned for crimes their parents and grandparents got away with. There is a new wing in HMP London called Spike (a Victorian name for the Work House) which is reserved for these families who have been convicted of "heritage crime". They are known as "Strutters", thanks to a hugely uncomfortable GPS tag that is attached to their lower backs, and which forces them to keep upright and strut when they walk. Some of these prisoners are needed in their former workplaces, so they are released for the day, with their salary paid to the government. Strutters are reviled by both the general public, and those who are living in the overcrowded and dismal traditional prisons.
The main character is a 16 year old girl called Ant, who is shaven headed, with goose tattoos. She is in Spike with her foster parents and her 11 year old brother, Mattie. Ant and Mattie are there because of the unpunished crimes of the birth parents who abandoned them. Ant is a somewhat unlikely heroine. She is scary, moody, and can be violent. But she is also very brave, and extremely loyal. Mattie and Ant are half Haitian, and they use Creole slang to allow them to talk privately. They complement each other beautifully. Ant may protect Mattie, but Mattie has wisdom beyond his years, and he also gets her out of difficulty. Mattie is a very likeable character, whose diary excerpts at the beginning of some chapters are incredibly moving.
As Ant is a teenager, the novel is marketed as Young Adult - but this is a book which would appeal to anyone over the age of 12. In keeping with the setting and themes, references are made to cursing or swearing, without swear words actually being used. In this book Simon Mayo has created a world which seems all too familiar, and scarily plausible. The technology is familiar, if slightly more advanced, and we already live in a climate of blame culture, and in a politically and economically unbalanced world. Unsurprisingly, the idea of imprisoning people for Heritage Crime starts in the USA, but is quickly adopted worldwide. It is refreshing to read that the one place not to adopt the policy is Germany, a country which has learned from its past mistakes.
Blame is a hugely enjoyable, fast-paced and thrilling book. The characters are well-drawn, and there are many themes that deserve to be mulled over and discussed. Despite the female lead character, this book has much that would appeal to male readers. There is nothing "girly" about Ant! The prison riot is terrifying; the "baddie", Assessor Grey, is very sinister, and it is humbling to witness the power of underground internet forums. Prison reformers and the Media are shown in a particularly unflattering light, and the prison system is full of corruption.
After reading the novel, I went off to research Old Testament references to "The Sins of the Fathers". There are probably questions to be asked about some kind of accountability for those who have enjoyed the proceeds of "ill-gotten gains". But the resounding slogan of this fantastic book is "Not to Blame". I highly recommend it as a book that is worth reading and revisiting.
"Blame" is Simon Mayo's highly entertaining fourth novel. It is about a time, in the near future, when a devastating "Hurricane" recession has led to families being imprisoned for crimes their parents and grandparents got away with. There is a new wing in HMP London called Spike (a Victorian name for the Work House) which is reserved for these families who have been convicted of "heritage crime". They are known as "Strutters", thanks to a hugely uncomfortable GPS tag that is attached to their lower backs, and which forces them to keep upright and strut when they walk. Some of these prisoners are needed in their former workplaces, so they are released for the day, with their salary paid to the government. Strutters are reviled by both the general public, and those who are living in the overcrowded and dismal traditional prisons.
The main character is a 16 year old girl called Ant, who is shaven headed, with goose tattoos. She is in Spike with her foster parents and her 11 year old brother, Mattie. Ant and Mattie are there because of the unpunished crimes of the birth parents who abandoned them. Ant is a somewhat unlikely heroine. She is scary, moody, and can be violent. But she is also very brave, and extremely loyal. Mattie and Ant are half Haitian, and they use Creole slang to allow them to talk privately. They complement each other beautifully. Ant may protect Mattie, but Mattie has wisdom beyond his years, and he also gets her out of difficulty. Mattie is a very likeable character, whose diary excerpts at the beginning of some chapters are incredibly moving.
As Ant is a teenager, the novel is marketed as Young Adult - but this is a book which would appeal to anyone over the age of 12. In keeping with the setting and themes, references are made to cursing or swearing, without swear words actually being used. In this book Simon Mayo has created a world which seems all too familiar, and scarily plausible. The technology is familiar, if slightly more advanced, and we already live in a climate of blame culture, and in a politically and economically unbalanced world. Unsurprisingly, the idea of imprisoning people for Heritage Crime starts in the USA, but is quickly adopted worldwide. It is refreshing to read that the one place not to adopt the policy is Germany, a country which has learned from its past mistakes.
Blame is a hugely enjoyable, fast-paced and thrilling book. The characters are well-drawn, and there are many themes that deserve to be mulled over and discussed. Despite the female lead character, this book has much that would appeal to male readers. There is nothing "girly" about Ant! The prison riot is terrifying; the "baddie", Assessor Grey, is very sinister, and it is humbling to witness the power of underground internet forums. Prison reformers and the Media are shown in a particularly unflattering light, and the prison system is full of corruption.
After reading the novel, I went off to research Old Testament references to "The Sins of the Fathers". There are probably questions to be asked about some kind of accountability for those who have enjoyed the proceeds of "ill-gotten gains". But the resounding slogan of this fantastic book is "Not to Blame". I highly recommend it as a book that is worth reading and revisiting.
June 14, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed the book it was engaging and kept me wanting to read more! However I found it quite confusing at times. Overall I would recommend this book!
Read
February 26, 2017DNF
I got to 100 pages and realised I wasn't really getting into it. I didn't have the need to pick it up, which is usually a sign that I'm not interested. I'm sure it's my mood at the moment, I've had a few books lately that have been a bit of a let down so I think I probably would've enjoyed it any other time.
It's this month's book club book so I'm looking forward to what the others think.
I got to 100 pages and realised I wasn't really getting into it. I didn't have the need to pick it up, which is usually a sign that I'm not interested. I'm sure it's my mood at the moment, I've had a few books lately that have been a bit of a let down so I think I probably would've enjoyed it any other time.
It's this month's book club book so I'm looking forward to what the others think.
July 12, 2016
I received a copy of this title from the publisher via Netgalley.
Ten Second Synopsis:
Ant and Mattie are locked in prison due to the crimes of their parents, under the new "heritage crime" laws. Never one to go quietly, Ant discovers a way to maybe break out - but the prison is going into meltdown and before she can escape the whole place might just explode.
There is a veritable firestorm of action going on in this YA bit of speculative fiction set in the near future. Mayo has managed to sneakily incorporate a fantastic amount of philosophical debate about crime and punishment into what is essentially a tension-filled flight of revenge, evasion and emancipation from start to finish. The book starts with a huge concept - "heritage crime" and the question of how justice can be seen to be done when an individual seemingly evades the letter of the law - and Mayo skilfully explores this through action and character behaviour, held together with an exciting and pacey plot.
As one would expect of a book set in a prison, there is a fair amount of violence and general skulduggery, but the majority of it is appropriate to the telling of the story and not gratuitous. There are two main sections to the book, the first set inside the prison and the other...well, I won't spoil it for you, but the change in setting about two thirds of the way through breaks the plot up nicely and allows for a complete change of pace and new and unexpected dangers for our protagonists to face. I would definitely recommend this one to lovers of grittier YA stories, who are happy to see a melding of young adult and decidedly grown-up worlds in their reading. This would also make a fantastic class read for upper secondary students, to spark discussion and debate around scapegoating, delayed justice and the treatment of prisoners - especially juveniles.
Ten Second Synopsis:
Ant and Mattie are locked in prison due to the crimes of their parents, under the new "heritage crime" laws. Never one to go quietly, Ant discovers a way to maybe break out - but the prison is going into meltdown and before she can escape the whole place might just explode.
There is a veritable firestorm of action going on in this YA bit of speculative fiction set in the near future. Mayo has managed to sneakily incorporate a fantastic amount of philosophical debate about crime and punishment into what is essentially a tension-filled flight of revenge, evasion and emancipation from start to finish. The book starts with a huge concept - "heritage crime" and the question of how justice can be seen to be done when an individual seemingly evades the letter of the law - and Mayo skilfully explores this through action and character behaviour, held together with an exciting and pacey plot.
As one would expect of a book set in a prison, there is a fair amount of violence and general skulduggery, but the majority of it is appropriate to the telling of the story and not gratuitous. There are two main sections to the book, the first set inside the prison and the other...well, I won't spoil it for you, but the change in setting about two thirds of the way through breaks the plot up nicely and allows for a complete change of pace and new and unexpected dangers for our protagonists to face. I would definitely recommend this one to lovers of grittier YA stories, who are happy to see a melding of young adult and decidedly grown-up worlds in their reading. This would also make a fantastic class read for upper secondary students, to spark discussion and debate around scapegoating, delayed justice and the treatment of prisoners - especially juveniles.
December 17, 2018
Well this book was brilliant. No doubt about that.
I've always been a lover of Simon Mayo's work but this one truly was amazing. I think the idea of heritage crimes could become a very real thing one day and the reality of that is what made this book resonate so much with me. I'm also a very firm believer in justice handed to the right person and I believe heritage crimes doesn't do that. That's why I really felt connected to this book and Ant's cause. I felt like I could truly fight alongside the people who opposed he heritage crimes.
This book was a thrilling, fast-paced and exciting read. And there's also a very Prison Break Season 1 feel to it so of course I loved the book dearly.
It's not your average YA thriller and I think the exploration of how young wrongly-imprisoned convicts feel really opens up people's eyes because it relates so much to the world we live in. And maybe I read too deeply into this book but I really hope that heritage crimes does not become a thing one day. Well if it does at least I've been forewarned.
Always a pleasure to read Simon Mayo's books as they contain likeable characters, fast-paced action, and shocking events along the way. I would really recommend this book just because I haven't been able to find another book like it! The writing style flows successfully and if, like me, you have a strong sense of justice then you will find it hard not to connect to this book.
I especially loved the mix of Haitian and German languages thrown in there. Really different. And I'm hoping for a sequel because even though the ending was good I felt like I could still read a whole other book following the characters and I wouldn't get bored. I really hope Simon Mayo writes a sequel. To be honest I would read any book he writes because they're all good. Wow I love Simon Mayo ha!
I've always been a lover of Simon Mayo's work but this one truly was amazing. I think the idea of heritage crimes could become a very real thing one day and the reality of that is what made this book resonate so much with me. I'm also a very firm believer in justice handed to the right person and I believe heritage crimes doesn't do that. That's why I really felt connected to this book and Ant's cause. I felt like I could truly fight alongside the people who opposed he heritage crimes.
This book was a thrilling, fast-paced and exciting read. And there's also a very Prison Break Season 1 feel to it so of course I loved the book dearly.
It's not your average YA thriller and I think the exploration of how young wrongly-imprisoned convicts feel really opens up people's eyes because it relates so much to the world we live in. And maybe I read too deeply into this book but I really hope that heritage crimes does not become a thing one day. Well if it does at least I've been forewarned.
Always a pleasure to read Simon Mayo's books as they contain likeable characters, fast-paced action, and shocking events along the way. I would really recommend this book just because I haven't been able to find another book like it! The writing style flows successfully and if, like me, you have a strong sense of justice then you will find it hard not to connect to this book.
I especially loved the mix of Haitian and German languages thrown in there. Really different. And I'm hoping for a sequel because even though the ending was good I felt like I could still read a whole other book following the characters and I wouldn't get bored. I really hope Simon Mayo writes a sequel. To be honest I would read any book he writes because they're all good. Wow I love Simon Mayo ha!
December 6, 2016
I received a copy from Netgalley.
This was a case of it sounded like a good idea at the time. I do actually like dystopias, though they are very samey in terms of basic plot and characters. The plot is usually some horrible form of government has taken over a broken world with hard, harsh rules and a headstrong heroine who will take them all on and bring it down. Some work well, some don't. Unfortunately, this particular title didn't work for me at all.
For starters, there's a long list of slang words at the front of the book, which immediately annoys me. Made up words can either work or don't, depending on the book and the context, but a huge list at the front of the book? That's an immediate eye roll and a nope for me. I did give it a try.
The idea of this particular dystopian is a society where the children are blamed for the crimes of their parents. This must have sounded interesting when I requested the book, but on actually starting to read it, it didn't sound particularly interesting at all. The heroine is doling out her own form of justice to some bullies in the first scene, and its made clear that she's doing something against the rules and has to be back wherever she's got to be ASAP. She lives in some sort of prison with her adorable brother and her adoptive parents. There's a horrible guard who seems to have it out for this particular girl.
I made it to 9% but I know already this one is not for me and I have no desire to finish it.
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Random House UK Children’s for the opportunity.
This was a case of it sounded like a good idea at the time. I do actually like dystopias, though they are very samey in terms of basic plot and characters. The plot is usually some horrible form of government has taken over a broken world with hard, harsh rules and a headstrong heroine who will take them all on and bring it down. Some work well, some don't. Unfortunately, this particular title didn't work for me at all.
For starters, there's a long list of slang words at the front of the book, which immediately annoys me. Made up words can either work or don't, depending on the book and the context, but a huge list at the front of the book? That's an immediate eye roll and a nope for me. I did give it a try.
The idea of this particular dystopian is a society where the children are blamed for the crimes of their parents. This must have sounded interesting when I requested the book, but on actually starting to read it, it didn't sound particularly interesting at all. The heroine is doling out her own form of justice to some bullies in the first scene, and its made clear that she's doing something against the rules and has to be back wherever she's got to be ASAP. She lives in some sort of prison with her adorable brother and her adoptive parents. There's a horrible guard who seems to have it out for this particular girl.
I made it to 9% but I know already this one is not for me and I have no desire to finish it.
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Random House UK Children’s for the opportunity.
August 13, 2024
I read this book because my university tutor recommended it to me. It's the same genre as my own novel that I'm writing so she thought it would be helpful.
Despite reading it and studying it, I actually really enjoyed the book.
The whole concept behind the plot of children being punished for the crimes their parents committed. I liked how the author conveyed the dystopian and really thought out every detail. I was intrigued as to how the world came to be and the reflections on society were very interesting.
The way that the world criminalised the strutters was an interesting take on the world today.
Ant, the protagonist, was a fascinating character. Her courage and braveness towards protecting those she loves is admirable. She gets herself in trouble to protect her friends and family. Her relationship with her little brother, Mattie, was one of my favourite aspects of this book because I loved seeing their dynamic and what Ant was willing to do for him.
The perspective of the book is third-person omniscient point of view really helped bring the story to life as it gave an insight into every character and the inner workings of the system as a result. I liked the reflection on society and particularly the view on justice.
The tension was high throughout the whole of the book, with it ramped up higher when necessary. The chapters aren't too long but it keeps the pace of the book fast.
Overall, I enjoyed the whole book and loved the characters - well, the good ones anyway!
Despite reading it and studying it, I actually really enjoyed the book.
The whole concept behind the plot of children being punished for the crimes their parents committed. I liked how the author conveyed the dystopian and really thought out every detail. I was intrigued as to how the world came to be and the reflections on society were very interesting.
The way that the world criminalised the strutters was an interesting take on the world today.
Ant, the protagonist, was a fascinating character. Her courage and braveness towards protecting those she loves is admirable. She gets herself in trouble to protect her friends and family. Her relationship with her little brother, Mattie, was one of my favourite aspects of this book because I loved seeing their dynamic and what Ant was willing to do for him.
The perspective of the book is third-person omniscient point of view really helped bring the story to life as it gave an insight into every character and the inner workings of the system as a result. I liked the reflection on society and particularly the view on justice.
The tension was high throughout the whole of the book, with it ramped up higher when necessary. The chapters aren't too long but it keeps the pace of the book fast.
Overall, I enjoyed the whole book and loved the characters - well, the good ones anyway!
October 9, 2016
Full review posted on my blog, Blackplume
.
Dystopian futures in fictions is a powerful set-up for a story. Since they usually mirror our own world they easily create a sense of reality making them relate-able. Add the sense of broken world or threat to the survival of humanity then they become engaging and thrilling read. And if the story create awareness or raised questions the better. Just like what Simon Mayo did in his latest novel, Blame.
Blame easily a successful dystopian read. It is relate-able, engaging, thrilling, thought-provoking and even horrifying at times. It’s a chilling view a possible future we can have if we are not careful with our choices.
Continue reading here
.
Dystopian futures in fictions is a powerful set-up for a story. Since they usually mirror our own world they easily create a sense of reality making them relate-able. Add the sense of broken world or threat to the survival of humanity then they become engaging and thrilling read. And if the story create awareness or raised questions the better. Just like what Simon Mayo did in his latest novel, Blame.
Blame easily a successful dystopian read. It is relate-able, engaging, thrilling, thought-provoking and even horrifying at times. It’s a chilling view a possible future we can have if we are not careful with our choices.
Continue reading here
May 17, 2016
Mayo's foray into YA fiction is explosive, packed with rock solid characters, a smart, topical narrative and a decidedly corrupt and generally unpleasant villain, this is a thrilling read. Blame calls into question the ease with which the media can create a convincing and consuming blame culture, forcing innocent people to become both victims and perpetrators in the same breath. It's an excellent read, taken both as the story as it's told and as a frightening portent of what could come to pass. Loved it!
August 28, 2017
This is a great book - I'm looking for a new book equally as great but haven't found one yet. For a full and detailed review, read my blog littleseabear.com :)
Want to read
June 28, 20165 Words:
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
August 29, 2016
I loved the idea of heritage crime and the way the media and driven its popularity with the public.
December 8, 2016
I cannot believe the assessor is such a hypocrite such a shame he isn't exposed until the end but he was exposed in such a way it was better for the novel
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2017
I don't lightly give a book 5 stars. It has to be engaging, well written, great characters and a great story to boot. "Blame" has all of this and more. I have loved 5 star books, like George Orwell's "1984" and Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" for over half my life, so Simon Mayo had a lot to live up to. I can say without a shadow of a doubt that he achieved it.
I think what sares me most about this dystopian novel is that I can see it happening, maybe not in my lifetime, but in that of the next generation.
In "Blame" Mayo explores the consequences of holding people responsible, not for any crimes that they have committed, but for those of their parents/grandparents/partners: heritage crimes.
Ant is the protagonist of the story, who along with her brother Mattie, are locked up with their foster parents for her biological parents' crime. Parents she can barely remember. Ant knows she is the last hope in saving herself, her brother and her fellow inmates. Hated by everyone in prison, including the criminals, Ant doesn't have a lot of help. She is an amazing, strong and loveable heroine. The fact that Ant is a girl is actually totally irrelevant to the story and I love Simon so much more for making her a girl. Even more so because she's a girl who doesn't need rescuing.
For me this was a stand out book for 201`6. A dystopian thriller which you won't want to put down. I would definitely put this a young adult (14+) title as there are serious topic discussed and some very brutal behaviour that would distress younger readers.
If I had to describe this book in three words they would be: brilliant, addictive and thrilling.
Danielle Lacey
Three Four Knock on the Door
Independent Children's Bookshop
I think what sares me most about this dystopian novel is that I can see it happening, maybe not in my lifetime, but in that of the next generation.
In "Blame" Mayo explores the consequences of holding people responsible, not for any crimes that they have committed, but for those of their parents/grandparents/partners: heritage crimes.
Ant is the protagonist of the story, who along with her brother Mattie, are locked up with their foster parents for her biological parents' crime. Parents she can barely remember. Ant knows she is the last hope in saving herself, her brother and her fellow inmates. Hated by everyone in prison, including the criminals, Ant doesn't have a lot of help. She is an amazing, strong and loveable heroine. The fact that Ant is a girl is actually totally irrelevant to the story and I love Simon so much more for making her a girl. Even more so because she's a girl who doesn't need rescuing.
For me this was a stand out book for 201`6. A dystopian thriller which you won't want to put down. I would definitely put this a young adult (14+) title as there are serious topic discussed and some very brutal behaviour that would distress younger readers.
If I had to describe this book in three words they would be: brilliant, addictive and thrilling.
Danielle Lacey
Three Four Knock on the Door
Independent Children's Bookshop
Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews