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71 pages 2 hours read

Five Survive

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2022

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Book Brief

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Holly Jackson

Five Survive

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2022
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

RV • Contemporary

Publication Year

2022

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL670L

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Super Short Summary

In Five Survive by Holly Jackson, Red Kenny and five friends, traveling in an RV from Philadelphia to Gulf Shores for spring break, break down in rural North Carolina and become targets of a sniper. As they struggle to survive the night, they uncover dark secrets, put their friendships to the test, and confront personal and collective demons in a tense fight for survival.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

186,089 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Holly Jackson's Five Survive captivates with intense suspense and well-drawn characters. Readers praise its gripping, fast-paced plot, making it hard to put down. The dialogue and twists are noted as standout elements. Some critique the predictability of the story and pacing in parts, but overall, it's a thrilling read for mystery enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Five Survive?

Readers who would enjoy Five Survive by Holly Jackson typically appreciate YA thrillers with strong suspense and intense plot twists. Fans of One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus and A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson herself will find this book particularly engaging due to its high-stakes narrative and complex characters.

4.2

186,089 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Redford “Red” Kenny

Red is the protagonist, dealing with past trauma and poverty, who ends up testifying against Frank Gotti under pressure. A character with a strong moral code, she is deeply concerned with the welfare of her friends.

Oliver is an ambitious pre-law student and a controlling presence among the group. He becomes a significant antagonist whose plans often result in harm to others.

Maddy is Oliver’s younger sister and Red’s best friend, who struggles between family loyalty and honesty with Red. She cares deeply for Red but initially hides crucial details about Red’s mother.

Reyna is a Mexican American pre-med student and Oliver’s girlfriend, who secretly loves Jack and eventually stands up to Oliver. She is marked by a strong moral compass.

Arthur, son of Frank Gotti, seeks the truth behind his father’s prosecution while caring for Red and her friends. He harbors romantic feelings for Red and presents a contrast to Oliver’s violent tendencies.

Simon is a friend of Red and Maddy, known for his carefree yet practical nature. He aligns with Red under socioeconomic divides and dislikes Oliver’s actions.

Catherine is a corrupt assistant district attorney who manipulates those around her for personal gain. She plays a key role in Red's testimony against Frank Gotti.

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

RV • Contemporary

Publication Year

2022

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL670L

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