Book Reviewed: Feed, M.T. Anderson

Written in the earlier style of sci-fi writers such as Ray Bradbury and Ron Hubbard, Feed is a social commentary of not only a future society and world, but our own as well. Brought to life by author M.T. Anderson, the characters in Feed are all the same, not because they are forced to be by their government, but because they want to be alike.
In this future, everyone has a small computer implanted in their brains (called feeds) which take over everyday functions such as speaking or shopping. They are commercial tools created by corporations to market their products. Music, games, and movies are brought into the brain. Dictionaries can look up words as needed. The internet is closer than their fingertips.
The novel introduces us to Titus, a relatively normal teen, who travels to the moon for spring break. After renting a hotel and trying to break into the mini bar, he attempts to go to a no gravity lounge when he can’t get in to any parties. Titus meets Violet, and his eyes are forever opened. She is a home schooled girl who didn’t get a feed implanted until she was seven. Violet is different from every other girl Titus has ever met; she can read, write, and even think. This novel is set in the last days of the world. Feed is a beautiful, tragic, and eye-opening story of teens in love just trying to be “normal” – whatever that means.

Book Reviewed: Tithe by Holly Black

The world created by Holly Black in her modern fairytale series (thus far made up of Tithe, Valient, and Ironside) is like no other in teen literature: it repulses and frightens even as it captivates. Tithe is the first story and invites the reader into the lush and dangerous world of the fae. The main character, a streetwise girl named Kaye, must find her way through the conspiracy, teen angst, and betrayal both in New Jersey and the faerie courts. A tale of intrigue, hidden identities, and true love, Tithe will shock and amaze you, make you laugh, make you cry, and keep you coming back for more as the story unfolds.