Tag: Dystopian

Book Review

Mindworks: An Uncanny Compendium of Short Fiction

TheShelfLife

Mindworks: An Uncanny Compendium of Short Fiction by Neal Shusterman

Publication Date: November 2025 |Thanks NetGalley for an ARC | Based on a limited (yet large) provided selection of stories from collection

Overall Verdict: A collection of imaginative stories that fans of Shusterman will appreciate.

4/5 Stars

Book Summary: A compilation of new and previous work of Shusterman together in one collection. These short stories stretch the imagination and have a wide range of focuses that fall within the realm of science-fiction, fantasy and horror.

My Analysis: First off I have to talk about the book cover. As an adult I can see the artistic vision behind it in incorporating elements from the stories. However, working with teens for as long as I have, there is a zero percent chance they would pick this one up because of that cover. They absolutely judge by the cover and I could even recommend it and they can see who the author is (he’s a popular one for us) and they would still be hesitant. As far as the stories go I was able to read the provided selection of shorts in the ARC, and it was still pretty extensive. From what I have gathered these are stories that are both new and previously written. They all definitely have that Shusterman flavor. Some I enjoyed far more than others, and I tended to be more intrigued by the sci-fi stories more than anything else. One in particular was fantastic, and I hear they may be adapting it to a film. All of the shorts varied in length, but all had the elements necessary for the reader. The writing was extremely imaginative and thought-provoking. If you are a fan of Shusterman’s other work there is a good chance you will like this collection too.

Book Review

The Last Bookstore on Earth

TheShelfLife

The Last Bookstore on Earth by Lily Braun-Arnold

Publication Date: January 2025| Thanks NetGalley for an ARC

Overall Verdict: A well-written but one dimensional, post-apocalyptic debut novel.

3.5/5 Stars

Book Summary: Ever since The Storm devastated civilization, Liz has secluded herself in the bookstore she used to work at. The Storm caused weather-related damage, including body melting acid rain. Liz has gotten used to her time alone since her only companion left to find out what else was left of the world, until she finds herself with an unexpected intruder turned guest. When Maeve comes into Liz’s life, she pushes her beyond her comfort zone as they continue to survive and prepare for yet another coming Storm.

My Analysis: For a debut novel, I really enjoyed the authors writing style. I felt very connected to the main character Liz and her emotions and experiences both past and present. I however did not care for Maeve’s character at all. I found her to be very annoying and I’m not sure what Liz saw in her really other than the fact that she was simply there. I liked the concept of this novel and of course was intrigued by the idea of her being in a bookstore in an end of the world situation. The novel is all from Liz’s perspective, but does share a past timeline as well. There are also some mini journal entries throughout of others peoples stories. I liked how those all came together to share the overall story. I did find the novel to be a bit one dimensional, I wish there was a little more substance or another subplot to compliment the rest of the main story. Maybe more of the romance between Maeve and Liz as well? It all felt very surface level. I am glad though that there’s another new decent YA dystopian out, it is something lacking right now! If you’re into post-apocalyptic scenarios, give this one a try.

Book Review

The Kill Factor

TheShelfLife

The Kill Factor by Ben Oliver

Publication Date: April 2024 |Thanks NetGalley for an ARC

Overall Verdict: A unique idea for a dystopian society that will appeal to most teens in the age of social media influences. Geared toward a younger YA audience

3/5 Stars

Book Summary: In a dystopian future where brand currency that is gained through social media followers reigns supreme, Emerson finds herself at the bottom of society. When she is arrested while trying to provide for her family, Emerson is met with an offer. A new reality TV show has been created for teens facing criminal charges. The winner will be released with no consequences. Contestants must complete mental and physical challenges and are put up to a public vote. The more followers someone has, the more advantages they have on the show. Emerson knows this isn’t going to be good, but she had no idea that she would also be fighting for her life along with her freedom.

My Analysis: I really like the concept of such a strong influence of social media on this dystopian society. It honestly isn’t too far off of what could happen in terms how it impacts financials and relationships. I can really see this idea appealing to teens who are so surrounded by social media in their everyday lives. I do think a younger YA audience would appreciate this more as the writing is more surface than depth. Is it a bit far fetched in terms of the TV show? Sure, but it’s interesting. It’s a bit of The Hunger Games meets #murdertrending. I thought at first that the challenges that the contestants were facing were a bit lacking in creativity, but I think upon further reflection that it was done that way purposefully by the author. There was one twist I didn’t see coming, but appreciated. Oliver definitely set the ending up for a potential sequel or series as well.

Book Review

The Meadows

TheShelfLife

The Meadows by Stephanie Oakes

Publication Date: September 2023 | Thanks NetGalley for an ARC

Overall Verdict: Dystopian reminiscent of The Handmaids Tale that dives deep into an alternative society, for a story full of emotion. If you are a dystopian fan, this one is definitely recommended.

4/5 Stars

Book Summary: A new society has emerged after natural disasters plague the planet, focusing on conformity. Anything that is deemed to upset the ‘natural order’ is forbidden. When Eleanor receives a letter to go to The Meadows, she thinks that she has finally found her place. As she begins her time at the school however, she realizes that the motivations of the Matrons may not be what she originally thought. When she meets Rose, Eleanor begins to further question her place in The Meadows and within society.

My Analysis: Overall I enjoyed the journey of reading this book. I thought that is was a unique take on a dystopian society and that it was mostly well done. I do wish the author would have described a bit more background either at the beginning to set the stage more or have revealed it throughout. I wanted to know more of the how and why behind all of the details that led to this society and the way it is. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, and I thought it was nicely done how you are able to see how different people coped and reacted to similar circumstances. Definitely led to some emotional moments! There is a ‘then’ and ‘now’ format to the book which at first I didn’t care for, but I enjoyed more as I read on. The connection between the two helped to add to the overall story and character development. It could be just the ARC, but I didn’t love that it wasn’t indicated in the chapter heading whether we were in the past or present. Didn’t take long to figure it out, but just a little per peeve of mine for that kind of writing. Overall, a solid dystopian!