Language: R (14 swears, 5 ‘f’); Mature Content: PG-13 (Mental health, sexual innuendos);
Violence: PG-13 (Discussion of unethical research studies)
BUYING ADVISORY: HS - OPTIONAL
APPEALS TO: SOME
In the near future, 17yo ‘Wayne (the “D” is invisible) feels that he is not living up to his potential. He’s struggling in school, disappointing his father, and can’t find the courage to talk to his crush Jane. Then, he receives a mysterious letter in the mail inviting him to participate in a research study, the rewards for which include a letter of recommendation. Feeling this could be his chance and spotting Jane at the research study's entrance exam, he decides to enroll. ‘Wayne is not bothered by the study’s required daily tasks nor by wearing a health-tracking wristband, but he does hesitate at taking the mysterious white pill. Conspiracy theories around the study abound, and ‘Wayne, Jane, and his technologically-skilled friend Kermit decide to investigate the actual purpose of the study.
Overall, I found the novel’s pace a little slow. Nonetheless, its short chapters and unconventional features including footnotes, screen shots of text conversations, and fourth-wall breaking made for a unique, enjoyable reading experience. I was also happily surprised by the well-developed, memorable characters. For example, the love interest Jane is an origami expert, autistic, and lost her mom to suicide.
Wayne is BIPOC, and his younger cousin who lives with them is Vietnamese.
Megan, HS Librarian
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