6/10, it was ok. ( )

This isn't the 4 stars I would give to a book up for the Newbery award - but it deserves 4 stars for it's type. This is a Hunger Games readalike for the reluctant reader with high interest level but low reading age or ability (it also reminded me a bit of the HIVE series from Mark Walden). There is some violence/killing/death so most suitable for 10 with reading age of 8 . I love the way this book looks exactly like a normal book with a fab lenticular cover that will appeal to kids and not look like a remedial reader. Boys with normal reading levels will enjoy this as a quick read - it is pretty exciting. I will be buying more from Barrington Stoke - bravo! ( )