Title: Qualify
Author: Vera Nazarian
First published December 20, 2014
600 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781607621331 (ISBN10: 1607621339)
Rating: 4.14
Overview
If you’re a fan of the hit TV show Ghost Hunters, then you know all about T.A.P.S. – The Atlantic Paranormal Society. Now, for the first time ever, Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson are sharing their hair-raising experiences in their book Ghost Hunting: True Stories of Unexplained Phenomena.
With the help of veteran author Michael Jan Friedman, they recount some of their most memorable investigations, from the ones you’ve seen on TV to never-before-told stories. Armed with the most sophisticated scientific equipment available, the men and women of T.A.P.S. are on a mission to uncover the truth about ghosts and other supernatural phenomena.
This funny, fascinating, and sometimes frightening collection will challenge everything you thought you knew about the spirit world. So, are you ready to join the T.A.P.S. team on their quest for the paranormal?
About the Author
Meet Vera Nazarian, a talented writer and artist who has been recognized as a finalist for the prestigious Nebula Award twice. As a member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, Vera enjoys crafting stories that explore moral themes and showcase the wonders of the world.
Vera’s journey to becoming a successful writer began when she immigrated to the United States from the former USSR as a child. At the age of 17, she sold her first story and has since been published in numerous anthologies and magazines around the world, with her work translated into eight different languages.
Among her many accomplishments, Vera has written several acclaimed novels, including the epic fantasy trilogy, Atlantis Grail, and the humorous and romantic parodies, Mansfield Park and Mummies and Northanger Abbey and Angels and Dragons. Her most recent work, the high-octane science fiction series, Cobweb Bride, has even been optioned for film.
After spending many years in Los Angeles, Vera now resides in a cozy Vermont town where she infuses her baking and art with her unique sense of humor and cultural background. Interested in learning more about Vera and her creative works?
Check out her website!
Editoral Review
Qualify by Vera Nazarian is an enthralling young adult novel set in a dystopian future. Nazarian, a Nebula Award-nominated author, has crafted a unique and captivating world that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
The book was first published on December 20, 2014. The novel is set in the near future, where the Earth is facing a catastrophic event that will render the planet uninhabitable.
The only hope for humanity is to send a select group of teenagers to a new planet to start a new civilization. The catch?
The only way to qualify for the mission is to survive a brutal series of tests that will push each candidate to their limits. The main character of the novel is 17-year-old Gwen Lark, a high school student who is forced to participate in the qualifiers after her family’s financial situation takes a turn for the worse.
Along with a diverse group of teenagers from around the world, Gwen must navigate a dangerous and unpredictable journey towards the possibility of a new life. Nazarian’s writing is impeccable throughout the novel.
She expertly balances action and suspense with moments of introspection and character development. The world-building is impressive, with detailed descriptions of the different challenges that the candidates face.
The pacing is also perfect, as the story never feels rushed or slow. The characters in the novel are diverse and well-developed.
Gwen is a relatable protagonist, and readers will root for her throughout the challenges that she faces. The supporting characters also have unique personalities and motivations, which make them stand out.
One of the strengths of the novel is the way that Nazarian tackles relevant social and cultural issues. The idea of teenagers being forced to sacrifice their lives for the greater good is a powerful commentary on the way that society views young people.
Additionally, the diverse cast of characters and the way that they interact with each other is a commentary on the importance of inclusivity and understanding. However, the novel is not without its flaws.
The ending feels rushed, and some of the resolutions feel a bit too convenient. Additionally, some of the challenges that the candidates face feel repetitive and predictable.
Despite these minor issues, Qualify is a fantastic read that will leave readers wanting more. Fans of young adult novels and dystopian fiction will find a lot to love in Nazarian’s work.
Overall, Qualify by Vera Nazarian is a well-written and captivating novel that is sure to entertain and enlighten readers. I would give this book a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The only reason it does not receive a perfect score is due to the rushed ending and predictable challenges. Regardless, I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys science fiction or young adult literature.
