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61 pages 2 hours read

Code Orange

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005

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Book Brief

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Caroline B. Cooney

Code Orange

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

200

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

2005

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

0850

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Super Short Summary

In Code Orange by Caroline B. Cooney, Mitty Blake, a high school student in Manhattan, selects smallpox for his biology research project. While studying, he finds smallpox scabs in an old medical book and fears he may have infected himself. As he seeks answers online, terrorists kidnap him, but Mitty cleverly thwarts their plan to use him as a biological weapon, ultimately discovering he is not infected. The book includes themes of terrorism and infectious disease.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Unnerving

Adventurous

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.0

7,542 ratings

59%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Code Orange by Caroline B. Cooney receives praise for its fast-paced, engaging plot and the genuine, relatable voice of its teenage protagonist. Critiques note that some plot elements feel implausible and certain characters lack depth. Overall, it's seen as an exciting thriller suitable for young adults, though not without its flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Code Orange?

Fans of young adult thrillers with a scientific twist, such as those showcased in Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park or Laurie Halse Anderson's Fever 1793, will enjoy Code Orange by Caroline B. Cooney. This book appeals to readers who appreciate intense, scientifically-driven plots and strong teenage protagonists.

4.0

7,542 ratings

59%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

200

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

2005

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

0850

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