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Thunderhead

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Neal Shusterman

Thunderhead

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

515

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mid Merica • Distant Future

Publication Year

2018

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

870L

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Super Short Summary

Thunderhead by Neal Shusterman continues the story of Rowan Damisch and Citra Terranova one year after the events of Scythe, as they navigate the complexities and corruption within the scythedom while being guided by the benevolent artificial intelligence, the Thunderhead. They are joined by Greyson Tolliver, who becomes entangled in their struggle against the malevolent Scythe Goddard. Topics include death, violence, and large-scale disaster.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Contemplative

Fantastical

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.5

208,525 ratings

89%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Neal Shusterman's Thunderhead receives high praise for its gripping plot, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes. Readers appreciate the intricate world-building and moral dilemmas. Some critics find the pacing uneven and feel certain plot points lack resolution. Overall, it’s a strong sequel that sparks substantial reflection on society and governance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Thunderhead?

Readers who enjoy dystopian novels with deep ethical questions will be captivated by Neal Shusterman's Thunderhead. Fans of Lois Lowry's The Giver or Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games will appreciate the richly imagined world and moral complexities. Ideal for young adults and adults alike who ponder the consequences of a seemingly utopian society.

4.5

208,525 ratings

89%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Citra Terranova/Scythe Anastasia

An 18-year-old newly-ordained junior scythe known for her compassion and unconventional gleaning methods, balancing her roles as a leader in the scythe community with her personal relationships.

An 18-year-old former scythe apprentice operating under an assumed name, motivated by a desire to eliminate corrupt scythes, while grappling with the influence of his contrasting apprenticeships.

An 18-year-old Nimbus Academy student living under an alias, placed in a challenging situation by the Thunderhead which sends him on a journey of self-discovery.

An artificial intelligence system that maintains the world, taking on a more active role in the narrative with its benevolent yet limited influence over human affairs.

Book Details
Pages

515

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mid Merica • Distant Future

Publication Year

2018

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

870L

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