Play Book Tag discussion

Scythe by Neal Shusterman - 4* - My Review

A brief summary of this book is “a utopia with a catch.” In this future world, advanced technology (called the Thundercloud) has enabled death to be overcome, but rather than allowing everyone to live forever which would create overpopulation, a percentage is “gleaned” by those designated as Scythes. Eighteen-year-olds Rowan and Citra have been selected to be Scythes-in-training. They are also competing for one position, and the “winner” must glean the other. They must navigate a new and unexpected role, training to be killers. They struggle to retain their compassion and self-image. Conclave, an event where Scythes govern themselves, is held three times a year. Power struggles begin to break through the utopian veneer. This novel is geared toward young adults but easily appreciated by an adult audience. It is a macabre but thought-provoking book that explores a variety of ethical and moral questions. The world building is consistent and well-thought out. This book was a gift from my nephew, and I look forward to discussing it with him.

PBT Comments: This would be a great choice for next month's tag - moral dilemma. It is also tagged adventure x116.

Nice review Joy! I really liked this one. The series got a bit weird (in an appropriate way) but I was astounded by the first one. Agree that it would work well for next month's tag.

Jen K wrote: "Nice review Joy! I really liked this one. The series got a bit weird (in an appropriate way) but I was astounded by the first one. Agree that it would work well for next month's tag."

Thanks, Jen! There are many parallels to religious groups, but I didn't want to go down that path in a published review. I am impressed by how much the author gives us to think about while providing an engrossing story.

Me too. The whole approach is very clever and thoughtful.