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54 pages 1 hour read

Little Brother

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2008

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Book Brief

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Cory Doctorow

Little Brother

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Francisco, California • 2000s

Publication Year

2008

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

900L

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Super Short Summary

In Cory Doctorow's Little Brother, 17-year-old Marcus Yallow leads a tech-savvy rebellion against the Department of Homeland Security after San Francisco is transformed into a police state following a terrorist bombing. With the help of teenage gamers and using his skills to outsmart surveillance, Marcus confronts the challenges of privacy, free speech, and personal growth in his fight for freedom. This book includes instances of terrorism and violence, including the waterboarding of a teenager.

Suspenseful

Adventurous

Informative

Challenging

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.2

54,169 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Little Brother by Cory Doctorow is praised for its engaging plot, timely themes of surveillance, and tech-savvy protagonist. Critics commend its relevance to contemporary issues and its appeal to young adults. Some reviews highlight the didactic tone and heavy exposition as drawbacks. Nonetheless, it remains a thought-provoking and thrilling read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Little Brother?

Readers who enjoy Little Brother by Cory Doctorow are tech-savvy, interested in social justice, and captivated by themes of surveillance and civil liberties. Fans of Orwell's 1984 and Huxley's Brave New World will appreciate its dystopian narrative, while those who enjoyed The Hunger Games will find its rebellious spirit appealing.

4.2

54,169 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Marcus Yallow

The protagonist, a high school senior and social engineer who is passionate about technology and privacy.

Marcus's girlfriend, known for her intelligence, confidence, and tech-savvy nature, who shares a strong commitment to personal freedom.

The primary antagonist, an imposing figure due to her stern demeanor and relentless pursuit of Marcus.

Marcus's father, a consultant and professor with a strong focus on security, who often debates privacy versus safety.

Marcus's British mother, skilled in cultural analysis, who supports Marcus’s views on privacy and surveillance.

Marcus's friend from a Catholic high school, known for his programming skills and insightful perspective on racial dynamics in dissent.

A clever member of Marcus’s team, whose pragmatic approach contrasts with Ange's idealism and passionate support.

Marcus’s close friend and the catalyst for Marcus's pivotal actions against the authorities, marked by his initial hesitation and later absence.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Francisco, California • 2000s

Publication Year

2008

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

900L

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