The Naturals--Morgan

 

The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, (published by Hachette Books in November 2013) is a detective fiction targeted towards the young adult audience. The novel follows Cassie Hobbes, a seventeen year-old profiler, who has been recruited by the FBI to solve cold cases. She joins the Naturals program, along with three other teenagers who also have unique and valuable talents, such as detecting lies, reading emotions, and being a statistical genius. As Cassie connects with her fellow Naturals and attempts to find her place among them, the memories and people of her past begin to haunt her. The further she gets into the program, the more she realizes that their current case of serial murders is more personal than they could have ever imagined. Cassie’s skills, motivations, and relationships are tested as she dances with a serial killer who is hell-bent on wreaking death and destruction at any cost. 

Though The Naturals is told entirely from the first person point of view, Barnes implements a disturbing twist as the reader is allowed a glimpse into the mind of the serial killer. No more than a few pages long, the killer’s perspective is shown in the eyes of a profiler, using the personal pronoun “you” instead of the more commonly used “I” or “they.” This second person point of view is representative of how Cassie is learning to profile her suspects, a tool utilized to build suspense and keep readers guessing. As a profiler, Cassie delves into the dreadful and twisted minds of criminals, trying to understand and predict their behavior by tapping into the darkest parts of herself. The layer of detail Barnes implements into these sequences gives the novel a sinister tone that is fundamental to its themes and how they impact the characters. 

“Blood does not define family and family does not define who you are” is the central theme of The Naturals. The five recruits have all been subject to varied scarring situations at the hands of or as a result of their families at some point in their early life. Most are slow to trust, keeping each other at arms length to fend off the horrors that come with caring for someone. Underneath it all, they fear facing the potential reality that they are destined to become who and what they claim to hate. Moments of self-isolation are a result of this angst, contributing to characters realizing that they are not alone and have each other to guide them through the darkness. Themes of isolation are also present throughout the story due to the group’s varying skill sets that no outsider can begin to understand. The FBI did not only recruit the teens to capitalize on these unique skill sets, but to also replicate them in the ordinary agent. Being a Natural means that you are regarded more as an experiment rather than a kid. The alienation of being extraordinary has followed Cassie and her friends their whole lives, and now is a plague in the one place they are supposed to belong. This allows for deeper bonds to be built between the group like, for instance, the connection Barnes establishes between Cassie and Dean, a fellow profiler, exploring how they are able to understand one another at a deeper level than anyone else ever could. Their minds, hard-wired to pick up on minute, personal details that an ordinary profiler would not be able to determine, become one as they intuitively detect definitive answers that they cannot explain. For once, Cassie feels that she has found someone that recognizes her for who she is and knows firsthand of the detrimental effects the gift of extreme observation has. The constant scrutiny and similar life experiences leads the teens to find solace, albeit reluctantly, in each other. Though dysfunctional at times, the teenage Naturals and their unwavering loyalty to their own demonstrates the value of teamwork and finding those who you can consider family. 

The believability of the characters only comes into question on account of the unconventional upbringings of the Naturals and the absurdity that human beings could be capable of what these teens specialize in. The level of genius each of them have in their speciality is breathtaking as they face life-threatening stakes and go against the odds of what is conventionally considered to be humanly possible. Cassie and Dean unconsciously pick apart a killer’s psyche and Michael, Sloane, and Lia see parts of the mind that would otherwise be hidden to the ordinary person. Barnes was meticulous when creating her story, carefully and purposefully weaving the plot into her characters. As Barnes slowly fleshes out her characters through Cassie’s watchful eyes, readers are exposed to the depth of their motivations and thoughts and are influenced by the heartbreaking stories covered with humor that is relatable, to a degree, and the clear empathy Cassie holds for her friends. By the end, one can understand why the characters say and act the way they do as it has been artistically splayed and spaced out within the pages. 

The Naturals is a web of character driven action that will have readers on the edge of their seats as puzzles and patterns get deeper, darker, and stakes rise. This heart-pounding mystery is a fun, yet mature read, as the darker plot undertones can be disturbing. In terms of literary value, The Naturals urges readers to pay close attention to a detail-reliant storyline and realize that things are not always as they seem. Reader interest is sure to be grabbed as Barnes balances extraordinary and relatability expertly in an ominous world of FBI investigative work and never knowing who the true enemy is.

The Eye of Minds--Billie

 

The Eye of Minds by James Dashner, published by Delacorte Press, takes readers into an

immersive science fiction story set in a dystopian future characterized by advanced

virtual reality technology. As the first work in the Morality Doctrine series, this novel

deftly navigates the complex intersection between morality, technology, and the grave

consequences of decisions in the vast, surreal virtual world known as VirtNet .Dashner

introduces the reader to Michael. The main character who is the key to the dangerous

search on VirtNet. Accompanied by loyal companions Bryson and Sarah, the trio embark

on a dynamic journey to uncover secrets and overcome challenges posed by virtual

environments. The story gains momentum through the central conflict surrounding Kaine,

a rogue player manipulating VirtNet for dark purposes. As Michael and his friends

embark on a mission to stop Kane, the story unfolds at a relentless pace, weaving

together themes of morality, identity, and the ethical implications of advanced

technology.Dashner's descriptive skills not only immerse readers in VirtNet, but also blur

the line between the real and digital realms. The author paints a vivid picture of the

virtual landscape, allowing the reader to imagine the future setting with amazing clarity.

The characters, including Michael, Bryson, and Sarah, are carefully crafted, each

contributing to the story's emotional depth and resonance. Michael's changes over the

course of the story not only serve the plot, but also engage the reader on a personal and

empathetic level, making him a likable and engaging protagonist. The development of the

plot is full of fascinating journeys. A series of unexpected developments keep the tension

constant and captivate the reader from the first page to the climax. Dashner seamlessly

blends elements of action, suspense, and philosophy, inviting readers to ponder the moral

challenges presented in the novel. The exploration of morality, power relations, and the

overarching impact of technological advancement elevates the story beyond traditional

science fiction and transforms it into a thought-provoking exploration of the human

experience in the digital age.“The Eye of Minds” pushes the boundaries of the typical

sci-fi adventure. This is a thorough investigation of the human condition in the context of

evolving technology. Thought-provoking questions reverberate throughout the story,

including the nature of reality, the ethical considerations of immersive technology, and

the responsibility that comes with exercising power within a virtual landscape. Dashner's

storytelling techniques, combined with rich description and compelling dialogue, allow

readers to become active participants in VirtNet's complex world, rather than mere

spectators. In summary, The Eye of Minds is his science fiction work that deserves praise.

It has a good combination of literary quality and reader interest. Dashner's ability to

balance entertainment and philosophical inquiry makes this novel an outstanding

contribution to the genre, and a compelling and intellectually stimulating journey for

anyone wishing to delve deeper into morality in an age of advanced technology. We

provide. With this first work, the Moral Doctrine series established itself as a

thought-provoking and sympathetic addition to the literary world.

Trineye--A Little Life

 

Extended Book Review: A Little Life

“A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara is a completely moving novel that dives into the

lives of four friends who are navigating the complex dynamics of relationships, trauma, and the

impact of their past. Set against the scenery of New York, Yanagihara’s beautiful storytelling

gradually unveils the intricate history of Jude, which is marked by intense suffering. Published

by Doubleday, on March 10th, 2015, Yanagihara intertwines a narrative that is just as

heart-wrenching and captivating at the same time. Exploring the depths of connections made by

humans and the impact of personal history

The novel revolves around the lives of college friends, Willem, Jude, Malcolm, and JB,

who are trying to make their mark in New York. The book focuses more on Jude St. Francis who

is an ambitious and talented lawyer with a truamatic past, that slowly unwinds throughout the

book. One of the crucial elements of the novel is how beautifully Yanagihara is able to display

the characters. Each character is carefully formed, with their individual qualities. Jude, more

specifically, is the more noticeable character with his intricate and mysterious characteristics.

Yanagihara's ability to create characters with such grace provides a significant emotional layer to

the story.

However, the title of the book itself adds a deep meaning to the plot. The title alludes to

the idea of keeping one’s dignity and sense of self in the face of hardship. Jude's life in spite of

his excellence and achievements is marked by suffering. The term “ A Little Life” is interpreted

as an understatement, downplaying the profuse intensity of Jude’s past experiences. His life is

not small in size or his impact on the world, but is hidden by the weight of his pain. Jude

attempts to bring out a meaningful life despite the immense battles he faces. The phrase “ A

Little Life” captures the fight to find comfort in immense pain. This creates a meaning that

echoes throughout the novel.

The setting of the book plays a crucial role in “ A Little Life” as the group of friends

navigate the fast-paced life in New York City. Yanagihara describes the city’s energetic

ambiance, which adds a feeling of realism to the novel. The city is not only the backdrop of the

story but also a contributing factor to the choices and experiences of the characters. The main

conflict in the novel is planted in Jude’s personal struggles, haunted by a painful past that he is

unwilling to face. Yanagihara is able to capture the cities relentless energy to allude to the inner

struggle in Jude. As the story progresses, Yanagihara builds tension, that is able to keep readers

captivated in the lives of the group and anxious to solve the mysteries that make up Jude.

Themes of trauma, resilience, friendship, and perseverance through the impact of past

traumas are intertwined into the novel. Yanagihara delves into the complexities of relationships

and the way some individuals cope with their past. At its core the novel wrestles with themes of

love. The exploration of trauma is compassionate and distressing. This forces readers to face the

darker outlooks of the human experience. This deep dive into trauma sheds light on the lasting

impacts it can have on a person and the different ways people try to heal.

In terms of literary value, "A Little Life" stands as a powerful work of modern fiction.

Yanagihara's ability to use complex themes with subtle changes and sensitivity boosts the novel

to a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. The emotional impact of the story

lingers, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. While the novel is compelling, it may not be

suitable for everyone due to its intense and emotionally charged content. The book's exploration

of trauma and suffering may be difficult for some readers.

In conclusion, "A Little Life" is a masterfully crafted novel that leaves an indelible mark

on its readers. Hanya Yanagihara's storytelling skill, added with her exploration of profound

themes, makes this book a touching and unforgettable literary experience. Despite its intense

emotional impact, the novel's depth and the continuing power of its central message make it a

significant addition to modern literature. The novel's themes resonate worldwide, compelling

readers to reflect on their own lives. While its intensity may be a challenge for some, the

authenticity and complexity of the characters, alongside a compelling plot, make "A Little Life"

an immersive journey that lingers in those seeking heartfelt and deep storytelling.

A Wrinkle in Time--Varnika

 

The concept of land between worlds, and life existing beyond our universe are ideas that

have not been well explored, and do not have much documented about yet. Even with the little

knowledge we hold about these lands, it is yet to be seen if there are good and evil entities that

exist in these lands as well.

In the book, “A Wrinkle in Time,” written by Madeleine L’Engle (published through

“Square Fish” publishing company), we follow the story of a girl named Meg Murry, who is

struggling with the disappearance of her dad. Her dad happens to be a physicist who tampers

with the idea of the space time continuum, and manages to unlock the truth of separate universes

that are currently unknown to man. As he gets captured between planets by an evil force called

the “IT,” his disappearance case becomes ignored by search officials, and evolves into several

falsehoods over what the current state of Meg’s father, Alex Murry, has become. The

disappearance eventually had been accepted by the family, but had been the primary reason for

Meg’s troubles and decline in performance and willingness to socialize with those around her. As

these issue became a great burden to her, one of the Murry family’s neighbors, Mrs. Whatsit

(known as the deranged person of their community), arrived at their house and revealed to Meg

the truth behind her father’s disappearance. Throughout her explanation, she describes the only

possible way to rescue her father is entering through a tesseract, which is a cube that functions to

transport one through time and space, from one dimension to another.

As the book is written through a third person perspective, we can see the sympathy the

author feels for each character as L’engle describes the emotions they experience throughout the

course of the book. Beginning chapter one, L’Engle begins the story with dark imagery,

foreshadowing the negative situation the Murry family is currently facing and having to endure.

The author shows clear sympathy for Meg, as she struggles with bullying from her peers, simply

based on her looks, and rumors about her family situation. We eventually see the different

aspects of emotions each character is experiencing based on their family situation, as well as the

extent they care for each other. This is highlighted as Meg, her younger brother Charles, and her

school friend Calvin O’Keefee, face dangers in several unknown realms, but decide to put each

other's safety first. Despite all the conflicts they have burdening them back home, the affection

they show for each other allows for both the author and the reader to be intrigued as to the

character development we are to see in the future, commiserating their every move.

L’Engle writes the book in a straightforward manner, allowing readers to have an easy

time deciphering the emotional capabilities of the characters, and can easily relate to them.

L'Engle develops her characters with depth and complexity. Meg Murry, is a flawed character

who undergoes significant growth throughout the story. The story is primarily told from a

third-person limited perspective, focusing on Meg's thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This

allows readers to connect with Meg on a personal level and understand her internal struggles.

Other characters, such as Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which are mysterious and

enigmatic, adding layers to the narrative. These different character complexities that are directly

explained tie in well with the obscure concepts of quantum physics the author decides to make a

key part of the story, as all these minor ideas are most likely new to readers. As the book is

written in an elementary manner, the audience can consider this book to be an easy reader, and is

a great book to begin with if you are new to the genre of Science Fiction. L'Engle uses

descriptive language to create a rich and imaginative world. She often employs vivid metaphors

and similes to help readers visualize the fantastic and otherworldly settings. The book can be a

great reader for those who are not familiar with Science Fiction as the book highlights important

central ideas that can be understandable to those who have dealt with the same experiences, such

as the loss of a loved one. The novel explores complex themes such as the battle between good

and evil, the power of love, the nature of conformity, and the importance of individuality.

L'Engle's writing delves into these themes in a thoughtful and thought-provoking manner.

Overall, Madeleine L'Engle's writing style in "A Wrinkle in Time" is characterized by its

imaginative and thought-provoking nature, its deep characterization, and its ability to blend

science, spirituality, and philosophy into a compelling narrative. These elements have

contributed to the enduring popularity and literary significance of the book, and should be

considered as a great reader for all readers.

A Game of Thrones--Jeet

 

A Game of Thrones is the first novel in the Song of Ice and Fire series, published in 1996 by

Bantam Spectra in the U.S. This book is often considered one of the greatest of all time, and one

of the classics of modern fiction. But is it really worthy of this title?

First, for some background. A Game of Thrones is set in a medieval setting with some

supernatural elements. At its most basic level, there are three storylines. One is of the struggle

for power over a kingdom called Westeros, another is of a group called the Night’s Watch

defending the country from supernatural creatures and feral humans called wildlings, and the

final storyline is about a woman’s journey to reclaim the kingdom of Westeros after her family,

the ancestral rulers of Westeros, were deposed. The first of these storylines involves two clans

named the Starks and Lannisters, and they have different archetypes, both of which are

subverted. The Starks are classic “good guys”. They live in the frigid north, and the main

characters in the Stark clan are all generally good people. However, this archetype is subverted

because they are not against killing people to achieve their goals. In fact, the head of the clan

executes people himself when it is needed. The Lannisters, on the other hand, are tricky and

conniving. They try to manipulate the throne and the kingdom to get what they want, but this

archetype is also subverted. A character named Tyrion Lannister is widely hated, but is truly a

kind person who is not as ruthless as the other Lannisters. Major themes in this novel include

moral ambiguity, political intrigue, and power. Many characters in A Game of Thrones are not

good or evil. They simply do what benefits them, whether that throws the kingdom into chaos or

helps bring it back. Their actions are not done from a moral standpoint, but simply their own

personal gain. This helps the story feel more real, as it feels more like what real humans would

do. The other two main themes of the novel are power and political intrigue, which are closely

related. The book emphasizes the role of political power and status in this book, and the benefits

it can bring people. Also, there is very little violence (compared to other books in the series) in

this novel. Most of the novel involves conversations between characters that slowly reveal what

is going on with the plot, and build up to the dramatic climax.

Martin does not have a distinctive technique that he uses throughout the novel, nor a particular

style of language, but instead is a jack of all trades. Throughout the novel, he shows an amazing

ability to write many different types of scenes, whether they are small hushed conversations

between two characters, or massive scenes with a huge amount of characters involved. However,

as the saying goes, Martin is also a master of none. While he is good at writing a variety of

scenes, there is none that he truly excels at. Also, his writing is often long-winded, making

scenes too long to keep the reader’s attention. Another one of his weaknesses is his almost

extreme tendency to spend time on minutiae. The book could definitely be much shorter if he did

not include this, but it is also a double-edged sword, given this is part of the reason why Martin’s

worlds are so fleshed out. In terms of the characters, they all feel very human. Despite some of

them doing despicable things, the characters feel very clear in their motivations, and almost none

of their actions ever feel forced in order to progress the story forward. Because of how believable

the characters feel, the plot also feels believable. Despite all of the plotlines in this novel, they do

not feel overwhelming, and because the story is character-driven, the plot feels purposeful.

In terms of literary value and reader interest, A Game of Thrones is an amazing book overall. Its

worldbuilding and character driven plots are its main strengths, as well as the slow buildup

leading up to the dramatic climax at the very end of the book. However, some readers may be

turned off from this book simply because of the length. Also, because George R. R. Martin

focuses so much on the minutiae, a reader might give up after just a few chapters because there is

simply not enough happening in the novel. However, if you can get past these flaws, A Game of

Thrones is an amazing novel worth checking out.