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54 pages 1 hour read

The 5th Wave

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2013

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Book Brief

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Rick Yancey

The 5th Wave

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2013
Book Details
Pages

457

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary United States

Theme
Publication Year

2013

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

HL690L

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Super Short Summary

In The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey, Cassie Sullivan survives alone after a devastating alien invasion that wipes out much of humanity through consecutive waves of destruction, including an electromagnetic pulse, natural disasters, and a deadly pandemic. She navigates a chaotic world, seeking to rescue her brother, Sammy, while struggling to trust others. Sensitive topics in the book include death, violence, and the impact of a pandemic.

Suspenseful

Dark

Mysterious

Emotional

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

482,930 ratings

73%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rick Yancey's The 5th Wave is praised for its fast-paced, gripping narrative and dynamic character development. Critics appreciate its blend of action, science fiction, and emotional depth. However, some find certain plot twists predictable and the romantic elements underwhelming. Overall, it's a compelling read for YA dystopian enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The 5th Wave?

Fans of dystopian adventures and alien invasions will be captivated by The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey. Readers who enjoyed the high-stakes survival and intense action of Suzanne Collins's The Hunger Games and Veronica Roth's Divergent will find a similarly gripping and immersive experience in this novel.

4.2

482,930 ratings

73%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Cassiopeia “Cassie” Sullivan

A high school teenager thrust into survival mode after an alien invasion, who relies on her instincts and determination to protect her younger brother and navigate the new world.

Formerly a charming football player, he becomes a hardened soldier grappling with guilt and driven by the need to protect those he cares about in the aftermath of the invasion.

A mysterious and complex figure who, despite an alien origin, displays unexpected empathy and forms a deep connection with Cassie, challenging his original directives.

Cassie's young brother, whose innocence and vulnerability become central to motivating and uniting other characters in their survival efforts.

Book Details
Pages

457

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary United States

Theme
Publication Year

2013

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

HL690L

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