Starters

Gr 7 Up—Following the Spore Wars, 16-year-old Callie struggles to carve an existence for herself and her younger brother, Tyler, in a California where everyone between the ages of 20 and 60 has perished. Although many in this near-future society eke out meager, hopeless existences, an elderly, wealthy Beverly Hills population and their grandchildren continue their lavish lifestyles. Medical advances ensure that entitled adults live beyond the century mark, creating a self-absorbed, controlling "Ender"class. Too young to work, Callie is a "Starter" on the run, in constant danger of arrest by the marshals and attack by renegades. Adding to her desperation is Tyler's rare lung disorder, making finding a stable home environment imperative. Unable to legally earn money, Callie registers with Prime Destinations, a clandestine service where Enders can re-experience youth by renting the bodies of teenage Starters via brain implants and computer interfaces. Although Callie's instincts scream danger, several rentals of her body proceed smoothly. But a malfunction during a third rental causes Callie to regain consciousness while being inhabited, immersing her in the lives of the rich and powerful, providing a love interest, and propelling her to the center of the sinister schemes unfolding at Prime Destinations. Lissa Price's intriguing, fast-paced tale (Delacorte, 2012) is enhanced by Rebecca Lowman's flawless voicing of each character and perfect timing. Fans of dystopian novels will be completely engaged and clamoring for the sequel.—Rebecca James, Currey Ingram Academy, Brentwood, TN