Scythe

Neal Shusterman

Walker Books

448 pages, £7.99, paperback

ISBN: 9781406379242

Scythe is “a true successor to The Hunger Games”, according to a quote on the book’s cover. But, if you’ve never read the dystopian trilogy, this doesn’t provide much of an idea about what to expect from Neal Shusterman’s latest novel.

I’ve read The Hunger Games. It’s the one where the girl from X-Men uses a bow and arrows to help Scout and Jem save a mockingbird. It’s very good.

Anyway, back to Scythe, a story that deals with the themes of morality, loyalty and immortality. Which, as it happens, are all key words in my appraisal targets this year. I found the story engaging and entertaining, with a good pace and unexpected twists.

The two central characters, Citra and Rowan, have a lot to deal with in this novel - and take decisions that make them likable, relatable and role models for the book’s audience. The world Shusterman has created is one in which I was glad to be immersed. I even gave serious consideration to the colour of my Scythe robes - fuschia, in case you’re wondering.

I think this is an excellent young adult novel and it is no surprise that the students loved reading it.

David Gower is assistant headteacher at King Edward VI School in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. He tweets @david_gower83

Pupil reviews

‘So unpredictable’

I liked the way Rowan and Citra were trained using different methods. Rowan was trained to “glean” (kill) for the joy of it and to see it as a sport. Citra was trained to see it as a requirement and not to glean for pleasure.

The book explores how two different people deal with the process of gleaning, including the consequences of their actions.

At first I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy this book, but I loved it. The storyline kept me intrigued all the way through. I really liked the way the book was so unpredictable.

William Blackwell, age 12

‘Very plausible’

I really enjoyed reading Scythe. I thought the main characters were really well written and very plausible, even when it came to issues that they faced.

I thought the book was engaging and avoided clichés. It was more captivating than I’d expected and towards the end had more and more unexpected plot twists.

I thought that Scythe was an enthralling read. I would recommend that students and young adults definitely read it.

Maddie Hook, age 14

‘Really makes you think’

Citra and Rowan are chosen to be the apprentices of a Scythe. They must become masters of taking away life from people, knowing that if they fail, it may be their own lives that they lose.

This is a fascinating book. The suspense and mystery could always be felt.

I love how Citra and Rowan’s personalities are so different, yet they are in the same situation so connect with each other. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone 12 or older. It is a story that really makes you think.

Grace Valentine, age 12

‘Roles are reversed’

All the dystopian novels I’ve read have been about a terrible future where people struggle to live. But Scythe is instead set in a world where people struggle to die.

Scythes are employed to “glean” the people chosen to be killed and are treated like royalty - but is the life of a Scythe really that good?

When one plot twist leads to another, you can see why the book is so immersing. There is nothing I disliked about this book. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to read something a bit different.

I would give Scythe 10/10. It was a book I thoroughly enjoyed and that I struggled to put down.

Joe Warner, age 12

If you or your class would like to write a review, please contact sarah.cunnane@tes.com