49 pages • 1 hour read
The Bar Code Tattoo
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Book Brief
250
Novel • Fiction
United States • Near Future
2004
YA
12-18 years
HL720L
Super Short Summary
In The Bar Code Tattoo by Suzanne Weyn, Kayla Reed lives in a dystopian United States where citizens are mandated to have bar code tattoos detailing their genetic information, which governs their societal status. After her parents' deaths, Kayla escapes, joining a resistance group in the Adirondack Mountains. The story explores themes of rebellion, control, and genetic discrimination within this oppressive regime. Descriptions of violence, racism, suicide, and discussions of mental health conditions are present.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Challenging
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
17,916 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Bar Code Tattoo by Suzanne Weyn presents a thought-provoking dystopian narrative with a compelling premise. While praised for its fast pacing and intriguing societal critique, some reviewers find character development and dialogue lacking depth. Overall, it's an engaging read for young adults interested in futuristic dilemmas and ethical quandaries.
Who Should Read The Bar Code Tattoo?
Readers who enjoy dystopian young adult fiction with themes of resistance and identity will find The Bar Code Tattoo by Suzanne Weyn compelling. Fans of Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games and Lois Lowry's The Giver series will appreciate the high-stakes, thought-provoking narrative.
17,916 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Zekeal Morrelle
Zekeal Morrelle
Zekeal is a new student at Kayla's high school and serves as an initial love interest for Kayla. Initially presenting as an ally against the bar code tattoo, he later reveals a deeper connection to the tattoo initiative.
Mfumbe Taylor
Mfumbe Taylor
Mfumbe is a senior at Kayla's school and a cartoonist for a rebellious magazine. He becomes Kayla's close ally and second love interest, known for his integrity and resistance to societal pressures.
Nedra Harris
Nedra Harris
Nedra is a member of the KnotU2 group and is known for her strong personality. Her trajectory is marked by a shift from resistance to compliance with the bar code tattoo system.
Allyson Minor
Allyson Minor
Allyson is a member of KnotU2 and is deeply interested in genetics, leading her to eventually support the bar code tattoo. Her fascination with science complicates her stance against the societal norm.
August Sanchez
August Sanchez
August is a quiet member of the Techno Club, initially resistant but eventually conforming to the tattoo culture. He later takes drastic measures to resist the bar code system.
Amber Thorn
Amber Thorn
Amber is Kayla's best friend and a staunch supporter of the bar code tattoo. Her beliefs are challenged as her family's circumstances change due to genetic issues linked to the tattoo.
250
Novel • Fiction
United States • Near Future
2004
YA
12-18 years
HL720L
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