Paradox

Gr 7–10—Ana wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of who she is or why she is wearing a timer that is counting down. She finds a letter informing her that she is on the way to planet Paradox and has undergone surgical amnesia. She meets Todd, who tells her that the timer is how long they have to reach a safe colony and also claims to have had his memory wiped. They eventually meet Chen and Ysa, who have their memories. They know Ana, but refuse to tell her anything about her past. A giant worm with rows and rows of razor sharp teeth that stalks them through their expedition only exacerbates their treacherous journey. In addition to Ana's story, there is also a smattering of newspaper clippings that helps readers understand why Ana and the others have been sent to this planet. Through these pieces, they learn Earth is falling apart due to a virulent infection that starts by targeting difficult memories and spreads quickly. The story moves slowly at times, and many of the events are rushed. Parts of the plot aren't particularly strong, including a forced love story. Most of the characters seem more like caricatures than actual people, except for Ana.—Kristyn Dorfman, The Packer Collegiate Institute, Brooklyn, NY