Annex

June 25, 2018
Debut author Larson attempts to create a diverse cast of kids fighting back against an alien menace, but the story’s flaws overshadow an otherwise promising premise. Aliens invade a vaguely described present-day American town and begin kidnapping and drugging children, using them as hosts for parasites. Violet, a 15-year-old transgender girl, is part of a group called the Lost Boys and is in love with their leader, Wyatt. Bo, an immigrant from Niger, escapes the aliens and is found by Violet. The adults are all wandering around in an alien-induced daze, so the kids decide to take on the invaders. Larson casually tosses around Violet’s birth name in ways that transgender readers may find painful, and Bo is confused about her gender, which never gets resolved in the narrative. Meanwhile, Wyatt, who’s white, insists that Bo is naturally violent. Though marketed as an adult novel with young adult crossover appeal, it’s hard to imagine readers of any age finding this poorly characterized story satisfying. Agent: John Silbersack, Trident Media Group.

September 1, 2018

Nonstop action, including prison breaks and alien fight scenes, mixed with backstabbing and spine-tingling suspense, infuses this wild sci-fi adventure. Violet and Bo fight alongside the self-named Lost Boys to survive the alien invasion and keep clear of the Othermothers hunting them. Each has their own personal demons to overcome in order to save themselves, their friends, and possibly the world. Violet, 14, is transgender and is terrified that this chaos spells doom for her transition and acceptance. Though Bo is only 11, he's determined to rescue his beloved sister, whom he lost in an escape attempt. The novel alternates between Violet's and Bo's points of view, and readers learn how this dystopia came to be and about the protagonists' allies, while Violet and Bo desperately try to stay just one step ahead of their relentless pursuers. The plot is complex, the world-building fully fleshed out, and the characters deep and relatable. This fast-paced, highly engaging narrative avoids sci-fi tropes-all with an ominous Peter Pan vibe. There is occasional strong language, but the protagonists' ages and situations make this title suitable for any teen. VERDICT A satisfying first installment in what will be a sought-after series.-Kristen Rademacher, Marist High School, Chicago

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