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344
Novel • Fiction
Colorado • Near Future
2012
YA
12-18 years
HL590L
In the year 2024, after a bus crashes due to a hailstorm, fourteen students take refuge in a superstore in Monument, Colorado, while encountering environmental disasters and a toxic chemical leak. They work together to survive, led by Niko Mills, a skilled social outcast, and navigate complex social dynamics and moral challenges over twelve days. The book includes instances of sexual assault, physical violence, and child endangerment.
Suspenseful
Dark
Unnerving
Emotional
Gritty
25,276 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Monument 14 by Emmy Laybourne offers an engaging mix of high-stakes survival and intense emotional drama. Readers commend its fast pace and vivid depiction of a dystopian scenario, capturing the tension among the young protagonists. However, some critique the character development and simplistic narrative approach. Overall, it's a gripping, if somewhat uneven, read.
A reader who would enjoy Emmy Laybourne's Monument 14 is likely a young adult interested in fast-paced, dystopian thrillers featuring survival themes and strong character dynamics. Fans of Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games and Rick Yancey's The 5th Wave will appreciate the high-stakes action and immersive world-building in this series.
25,276 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Niko Mills
A high-school junior and outcast nicknamed “Brave Hunter Man,” instrumental in rescue efforts. His leadership skills quickly earn him the position of group leader.
Jake Simonsen
A senior and popular football hero initially placed in charge of the group. His popularity does not prevent his eventual decline in the group’s hierarchy.
Astrid Heyman
A high-school senior and at the top of the social hierarchy, initially responsible for cooking duties. Known for her beauty and independent nature.
Brayden
A junior known for his good looks and high social standing. He often ridicules others but later forms a relationship with Josie.
Alex Grieder
Dean’s younger brother, who is highly analytical and good with technologies. He collaborates with others to improve group conditions.
Josie Miller
A 16-year-old described as a “hippie activist,” who takes on a nurturing role among the younger children. Initially withdrawn, she later becomes more active in the group.
Sahalia
An eighth grader who aspires to fit in with the older kids and is often depicted in revealing outfits. She becomes entangled with complex interactions.
Chloe
A very energetic third-grader noted for her demanding presence.
Batiste
An 8-year-old who is deeply religious and often assists in the kitchen, considering himself a moral authority.
Ulysses
A quiet, young Mexican first-grader who speaks Spanish and bonds with fellow Spanish-speaker, Robbie.
Max
A first-grader known for sharing mature and intricate stories well beyond his years.
Henry and Caroline McKinley
The youngest students who consistently look for their mother and eventually stay with Dean and Astrid.
Mr. Appleton
The school district chancellor who arrives injured at the Greenway seeking refuge.
Robbie
A maintenance worker from the local high school who arrives to help and has a strong connection with the group of children.
Mrs. Wooly
The bus driver who initially rescues the children and drives them to the Greenway before setting out to seek additional aid.
344
Novel • Fiction
Colorado • Near Future
2012
YA
12-18 years
HL590L
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