Thursday, February 17, 2011

I Am Number Four

Fifteen-year-old John Smith isn't who you think he is. He is one of nine alien children from the planet Lorien who came to Earth as refugees. They have been hiding among normal humans, waiting for the day when they would be ready to fight back against the Mogadorians who destroyed their home planet. Before they left for earth, the children were protected by a special charm that would keep them safe by ensuring that they could only be killed in order. Unfortunately, three of the Loriens have already been tracked down. John Smith is Number Four - he is next. Fortunately, his legacies - super-powered special abilities unique to his people - have begun to develop. Maybe he has a fighting chance...if he can avoid becoming overly attached to his human friends.

While the book was only published last October, I Am Number Four has received quite a bit of hype due to the quick release of the upcoming movie (set to open tomorrow, February 18). It's not a brilliant piece of writing, but it does have everything that fans of the emerging YA sci-fi genre will love - lots of action, a bit of romance, mysterious worlds that are connected to our own, super powers, and a solid cast of interesting secondary characters. I Am Number Four is not nearly as stunning or thought-provoking as Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games, but it will still satisfy those who have been drawn to the genre and are eager for more. The stage has been set for the expected six-book series, and I anticipate that the journey will be a wild ride.

Overall Grade: B+

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