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Description
In a small town on the coast of California, everyone over age fourteen disappears, setting up a battle between the remaining town residents and the students from a local private school. The plot contains graphic violence and negative stereotypes. Book #1
Quick Summary
If you're looking for a thriller that grabs you from page one and doesn't let go, this one's for you. Set in a California beach town called Perdido Beach, everyone over fourteen years old suddenly vanishes like, completely vanishes leaving only the kids to figure out what the heck happened while also dealing with some seriously scary stuff breaking out, including giant insects and kids developing weird powers. It's basically Lord of the Flies meets a superhero origin story, with a lot more action and a mystery that will have you guessing (and wanting the next book) right away. The characters feel real they're scared, they argue, they step up in ways you'd never expect, and there's a genuine mix of friendship drama and life-or-death stakes that makes it impossible to put down. That said, parents should know the book doesn't shy away from violence, and some of it is pretty intense for younger readers, so it's best suited for teens who can handle dark themes. If you've ever read James Dashner's Maze Runner series, this has that same "what's happening and why" hook, but with even more character depth. This is the first book in a series, and kids who love it will devour the rest.