Kathleen Duey (1950–2020)

I was a bit disappointed in this book. I was expecting a lot because it was nominated for the National Book Award. It wasn't bad, but it didn't stand out to me as anything particularly original. It was almost boring, because very little changes or happens after the initial drama. It felt like a book that was trying to lay the foundation for a series, so maybe the next in the series will be more interesting.

As with the Empire Strikes back, you need the information, but you ache for the resolution of the third book. *sigh*

Fabulous new series. I can't wait for the next one. She carries off a really interesting dual narrative and presents a compelling story. Creepy and good.

I liked reading this even though pretty much everything that happened to the characters was bad. It's interesting, I wanted to know what happened next and have already started the sequel.

A warning though, proceed with caution if you have issues with food or disordered eating. There is forced and voluntary starvation and a lot of talk about how that affects the characters physically and mentally and several kids even die of it.