Book details
Rash
Description
Consumption of alcohol: Illegal. Football and other "violent" sports: Illegal. Ownership of guns, chain saws, and/or large dogs: Illegal. Body piercings, tattoos: Illegal. It's late in the twenty-first century, and the United Safer States of America (USSA) has become a nation obsessed with safety. For Bo Marsten, a teenager who grew up in the USSA, it's all good. He knows the harsh laws were created to protect the people. But when Bo's temper flares out of control and he's sentenced to three years of manual labor, he's not so down with the law anymore. Bo's forced to live and work in a factory in the Canadian tundra. The warden running the place is totally out of his mind, and cares little for his inmates' safety. Bo will have to decide what's worse: a society that locks people up for road rage, or a prison where the wrong move could make you polar bear food.
Age
11-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
272 pages
Book in series
#2
Why to read
- Exploration of Freedom and Control: 'Rash' delves into themes of personal freedom versus societal control, set in a futuristic society where safety is prioritized above all else. It prompts readers to think critically about the balance between security and liberty.
- Engaging Dystopian Setting: The book presents a compelling dystopian world where the government has taken extreme measures to ensure safety, leading to a unique and thought-provoking backdrop that fans of the genre will appreciate.
- Character Development: The protagonist, Bo Marsten, is a relatable and dynamic character who undergoes significant growth throughout the story. Readers will enjoy following his journey from a rebellious teenager to someone who learns to navigate and understand the complexities of his world.
- Humor and Satire: Despite the serious themes, 'Rash' is laced with humor and satire, making it an entertaining read that can also serve as a gateway for discussions about societal issues and the consequences of extreme government intervention.