Title: The Awakening
Author: Michael Carroll
First published January 1, 2006
264 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780399247255 (ISBN10: 0399247254)
Rating: 3.99
Overview
In the aftermath of a great battle, superhumans have vanished from society. But now, ten years later, two young boys are beginning to exhibit extraordinary abilities.
Danny can move at the speed of light, while Colin possesses an incredible strength. Their parents, who belong to the lost generation of superhumans, have been eagerly waiting for this moment.
But there are those who would go to great lengths to prevent the boys from realizing their true potential. As Danny and Colin navigate their newfound powers, they must face dangerous adversaries who will stop at nothing to control them.
Editoral Review
Michael Carroll’s The Awakening is a young adult science fiction novel that explores the classic theme of good versus evil with an innovative twist. Carroll is a prolific Irish writer known for his contribution to the comic book industry, and he brings his talent for visual storytelling to this thought-provoking and engaging novel.
Set in a world where superpowers are real, The Awakening follows the story of several teenagers who discover that they have special abilities. The protagonist, Alex Sawyer, is a misfit who finds himself in the notorious Furnace Penitentiary, a prison for juvenile delinquents.
With the help of his friends, Alex escapes and joins other super-powered teens to uncover a conspiracy that threatens the world. Carroll’s prose is entertaining and easy to read, with vivid descriptions of the characters and the settings.
The pacing is fast, and the plot is full of twists and turns that keep the reader engaged. The themes of friendship, identity, and the consequences of power are woven seamlessly into the story, making it relatable and relevant to young readers today.
The characters in The Awakening are well-rounded and genuine, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Alex is a relatable protagonist, struggling with trust issues and a complex past, and his friends Zee and Simon are equally compelling.
The villains, on the other hand, are portrayed with nuance and complexity, highlighting the grey areas in morality. One of the strengths of The Awakening is its world-building.
Carroll has created a believable and intriguing universe where superheroes and supervillains exist alongside normal humans, and superpowers come with a price. There is a rich history behind the super-powered phenomenon, and Carroll drops hints throughout the novel that suggest a deeper mystery waiting to be solved.
However, the novel is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the plot to be formulaic and predictable, and the ending may be seen as too convenient.
Additionally, while the themes of the novel are well-executed, they may not be explored as deeply as some readers would like. Overall, The Awakening is an excellent addition to the young adult science fiction genre.
It is exciting, engaging, and thought-provoking, with characters that are easy to root for. While not without its flaws, it is a fun and satisfying read that leaves the reader wanting more.
Recommended for fans of superhero stories, as well as readers who enjoy fast-paced, action-packed novels with a touch of social commentary. The Awakening receives a rating of 4 out of 5 stars for its well-executed themes, entertaining plot, and engaging characters.
