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The Toll

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Neal Shusterman

The Toll

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

631

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mid Merica • Futuristic

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

850L

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Super Short Summary

The Toll by Neal Shusterman follows the journeys of individuals navigating a world where death is controlled by a select group called Scythes. As society grapples with the ethics of mortality and governance, characters face philosophical and moral dilemmas, challenging the established order in unexpected ways. Part of the Arc of a Scythe series.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Challenging

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

152,863 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Toll by Neal Shusterman concludes the Arc of a Scythe trilogy with a tantalizing mix of thought-provoking themes and complex character arcs. Readers praised its intricate plot and moral questions, though some found the pacing uneven and the multitude of perspectives challenging. Overall, it’s lauded for its imaginative scope and satisfying resolution.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Toll?

A reader who savors intricate dystopian worlds, ethical quandaries, and multi-faceted characters will relish The Toll by Neal Shusterman. Comparable to fans of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and Divergent by Veronica Roth, this novel is ideal for those who enjoy thought-provoking narratives and high-stakes adventure.

4.4

152,863 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Greyson Tolliver

An everyman hero with nondescript looks and a unique relationship with the AI known as the Thunderhead, who evolves to become a wise and insightful character throughout his journey.

A sophisticated artificial intelligence that manages global affairs with a benevolent purpose and begins to explore self-awareness and complex human-like emotions.

An antagonist characterized by his quest for power, whose appearance is notable for his head being grafted onto a younger, muscular body, adding to his instability.

A compassionate and ethical scythe known for her innovative gleaning method, who grapples with her dual identity and the burdens of being a symbol of hope.

A protagonist with a large family background, noted for his charisma and determination as he challenges corruption, and is deeply in love with Citra.

A wise mentor figure with a compassionate gleaning style, known for his selfless actions and deep sense of justice.

A genderfluid character with numerous skills and a light-hearted nature, who plays a crucial role in salvaging key protagonists.

A morally complex character who has a significant internal conflict due to her past actions, and is one of Goddard's associates in the new order.

A former Nimbus Agent entrusted with significant responsibility, recognized for her leadership and teamwork in establishing a critical project on the Kwajalein Atoll.

Book Details
Pages

631

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mid Merica • Futuristic

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

850L

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