S. Pearce

STORY-LINE:

Mo is growing up, and the pressure from everyone is growing as well. Meet a young Pakistani boy who must make decisions, while his conscience, parents, and friends all apply more pressure on his young mind. Come along and follow him as he tries to transition from child to youth. My book reviews follow.

CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, DEVELOPMENT:

Mo is the story of an American born Pakistani boy when is feeling growing pains and facing decisions which affect the rest of his life. Pearce skillfully paced this story, and his plotting is excellent. Any age group from teen to adult will enjoy this tale, especially the younger generation who are facing the same issues. Immature in his thinking, he's pulled in many directions. He encounters prejudice, ridicule, and a family who wants the best for him without remembering he should have a voice in his future.

Although set in Britain, this tale could have occurred anywhere. Teens face enormous pressure to join the group and be the same as everyone else or face the stigma of isolation and ridicule. The Mothman is an excellent character who intrigues Mo. Renaming him Moth, he receives sage advice from this old man as well as an education in moths, nature, and how their behavior resembles human behavior. I found his dialogue wise, gentle, and soothing as he tries to steer him in the right direction.

S. Pearce faced head-on the issues of prejudice, terrorism, and bullying. Every teen should read this story; I am sure they will relate to the problems Mo faces.

MY OPINION:

I found this tale thought-provoking, deep, and intriguing as Mo journeys from childhood to the next step in his development. Who does not remember the conflicts of those years between child and parent, friends who are no longer friends, and the challenges of joining in or being labeled different?

Then when Pearce added the elements of gaming, the mysterious Runner, and the terrorist organization, I found he is ripe for the plucking as the group slowly begins indoctrination. I found this story well-written with well-developed characters and scenes which transition smoothly. Left open-ended, I found myself pondering Mo's response.

I would not hesitate to buy this book for myself or a friend.

RECOMMENDATION: STARS 4

ALSO, PLEASE NOTE:

Also, I borrowed this edition from --------- as well as receiving a copy from the author. I chose to review with honest book reviews voluntarily. Lastly, reviews of any novel are dependent on the author’s opinion. Consequently, all reviews online and on my blog, are my opinion.… (mehr)