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48 pages 1 hour read

Downsiders

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1999

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Book Brief

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Neal Shusterman

Downsiders

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1999
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

1999

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

1110L

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Super Short Summary

Downsiders by Neal Shusterman follows two teenagers, Talon and Lindsay, from the hidden society beneath New York City and the world above as they explore and challenge their distinct identities. With the intricate, secretive life of the Downsiders juxtaposed against Lindsay's experience in the bustling Topside, the story weaves themes of belonging, discovery, and societal clash as they navigate their worlds' complexities. This book features suicidal ideation and some insensitive terms.

Mysterious

Adventurous

Fantastical

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

4,559 ratings

64%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Neal Shusterman's Downsiders received predominantly positive reviews for its imaginative premise and engaging narrative. Readers appreciated the vivid depiction of an underground society and the thought-provoking themes of integration and identity. However, some critiques noted occasional pacing issues and a few underdeveloped characters. Overall, it remains a compelling read for young adults.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Downsiders?

Fans of Neal Shusterman's Downsiders are typically young adults who enjoy speculative fiction and dystopian worlds. Readers who appreciated Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games or Veronica Roth's Divergent series will likely find Downsiders equally compelling, due to its intricate socio-political structures and strong, relatable characters.

4.2

4,559 ratings

64%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Talon Angler

A young protagonist with distinctive pointy ears and a notable scar, who navigates the complexities of living in the Downside while forming a connection with Lindsay.

A Topside-dwelling protagonist who moves to New York City and finds her life changed by meeting Talon, with whom she explores cultural differences.

Talon’s long-time friend and occasional antagonist, who values Downside rules and represents a foil to Talon’s rebellious nature.

A sidekick who is part of Talon and Railborn’s group, often taking on a supportive yet passive role in their adventures.

A historical figure woven into the narrative as a quirky inventor, fictionalized as the originator of the Downside society.

An enigmatic figure residing Topside, offering guidance and support to both Talon and Lindsay without aligning with either society.

Lindsay’s father, busy with his work on an aqueduct project, who has little meaningful interaction with his daughter.

Lindsay’s chatty sidekick who provides comic relief and aids in research tasks, though she is not a close friend.

Lindsay’s antagonistic stepbrother, known for his troublesome behavior and conflicts with Lindsay.

A young man from the Topside who attempts to transition into the Downside, highlighting themes of societal contrasts.

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

1999

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

1110L

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