61 pages • 2 hours read
Code Orange
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Book Brief
200
Novel • Fiction
New York City • Contemporary
2005
YA
12-18 years
0850
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
7,542 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
7,542 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Olivia
Olivia
A studious classmate of Mitty who begins assignments promptly and helps Mitty with his research; she is more comfortable with books than with people.
Derek
Derek
One of Mitty’s closest friends who enjoys teasing Mitty about his academic performance and eventually works with Olivia when Mitty goes missing.
Mr. and Mrs. Blake
Mr. and Mrs. Blake
Mitty’s parents, who are attentive to his school habits and spend quality time with him, but initially are unaware of the fears troubling him.
200
Novel • Fiction
New York City • Contemporary
2005
YA
12-18 years
0850
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