Title: Grasshopper Jungle
Author: Andrew Smith
First published February 11, 2014
388 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780525426035 (ISBN10: 0525426035)
Rating: 3.63
Overview
Seventeen-year-old Lily Thompson recounts the story of how she and her best friend, Miles, brought about the end of the world and the rise of a monstrous, genetically modified grasshopper species in their small town of Ealing, Iowa. Amidst the chaos, Lily finds herself struggling with her own identity and feelings, torn between her boyfriend, Lucas, and her growing attraction to Miles.
As the world around them crumbles, Lily navigates the complex realities of love, friendship, and the human condition. In this thrilling tale of survival and self-discovery, Lily must face her fears and fight to save what’s left of the world.
About the Author
Andrew Smith has written several books including Winger, Grasshopper Jungle, The Alex Crow, 100 Sideways Miles, and Rabbit & Robot. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the release of his newest book, Exile from Eden: Or, After the Hole, which is the long-awaited sequel to Grasshopper Jungle.
The book will be published by Simon & Schuster on September 24, 2019.
Editoral Review
In Andrew Smith’s 2014 novel, “Grasshopper Jungle,” the author explores themes of identity, sexuality, and loss of innocence through the lens of a small-town, Midwestern high school overrun by giant, man-eating insects. Smith, known for his YA novels that tackle weighty subject matter with a blend of humor and heart, combines elements of science fiction, horror, and coming-of-age stories in this inventive and thought-provoking book.
The novel’s protagonist, Austin Szerba, is a sixteen-year-old who is struggling to come to terms with his attraction to both his girlfriend, Shann, and his best friend, Robby. As he navigates his confusing feelings, the town of Ealing, Iowa, becomes ground zero for a plague of six-foot-tall praying mantis-like creatures that threaten to destroy everything in their path.
At its core, “Grasshopper Jungle” is a story about the complexities of human emotion and behavior. Smith’s writing is witty and insightful, capturing the angst and confusion of adolescence while also weaving in commentary on larger societal issues, such as the power of corporations and the impact of historical events on current generations.
One of the strengths of the novel is the vivid and imaginative world-building. Smith creates a detailed and believable atmosphere of small-town Americana, complete with eccentric, memorable characters and quirky local landmarks.
The inclusion of the giant insects adds an unsettling and surreal element to the narrative, and Smith handles their presence with a deft touch, avoiding any over-reliance on horror tropes. The pacing of the novel is another area in which Smith excels.
Despite its length, the book never drags or becomes bogged down in unnecessary detail. Instead, the action propels the story forward, building to a climactic and satisfying conclusion.
However, there are a few areas where “Grasshopper Jungle” falls short. The stream-of-consciousness narration style may be off-putting to some readers, and the multiple plot threads can occasionally feel disjointed.
Additionally, the ending may leave some readers wanting more closure or resolution. Overall, “Grasshopper Jungle” is a compelling and original work that combines humor, horror, and heart in equal measure.
It will appeal to fans of YA literature, as well as those interested in stories that explore the complexities of human nature in unexpected ways. Rating: 4/5 stars.
