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96 pages 3 hours read

Life As We Knew It

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2006

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Book Brief

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Susan Beth Pfeffer

Life As We Knew It

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pennsylvania • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2006

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

770L

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Super Short Summary

In Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer, sixteen-year-old Miranda documents her family's struggle to survive after an asteroid's impact on the moon causes global disasters. The increased gravitational pull results in tidal waves, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and a premature winter, leading to widespread destruction, food shortages, and social collapse. The story details the family's efforts to endure these hardships and maintain hope in the face of adversity. This book contains depictions of natural disasters and their harrowing consequences.

Dark

Melancholic

Suspenseful

Emotional

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

132,882 ratings

68%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Susan Beth Pfeffer's Life As We Knew It provides a gripping and poignant portrayal of survival in the wake of a global disaster. Readers praise its emotional depth and realistic depiction of resilience. However, some criticize the pacing and character development. Overall, it's a compelling, thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impact.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Life As We Knew It?

Readers who enjoyed The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins or Hatchet by Gary Paulsen would be captivated by Life As We Knew It. Fans of dystopian survival stories with strong, relatable protagonists and gripping, realistic scenarios will find this book compelling and thought-provoking.

4.2

132,882 ratings

68%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Miranda

A 16-year-old girl whose journal entries detail her experiences as her family faces a catastrophic event. She navigates typical teenage issues alongside growing responsibilities toward her family.

Miranda’s proactive mother, who is focused on ensuring her family's survival amidst worsening conditions. She often clashes with Miranda over the harsh realities they face.

Miranda’s older brother, a philosophy student with a calm demeanor who becomes a pivotal figure in helping the family adapt and survive during the crisis.

Miranda’s younger brother with a passion for baseball, who remains largely unaware of the family’s sacrifices to ensure his well-being.

An elderly family friend who provides support and resources to Miranda’s family during the difficult times following the moon event.

A doctor who dates Miranda’s mother and helps the family by bringing food and support amidst his overwhelming professional obligations.

One of Miranda’s close friends, who turns deeply religious following a personal loss, which creates tension in her friendship with Miranda.

Another of Miranda’s close friends, known for dating multiple boys, who decides to leave town with an older man seeking better opportunities.

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pennsylvania • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2006

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

770L

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