Holy Macaroni, Bookworms.
I’m not sure how coherent this post is going to be, because I’m still trying to figure out how to get my jaw off the floor. I recently decided to put my Audible subscription on hold because Scribd is a better deal for my voracious audio book appetite at this time. However, before pulling the proverbial plug, I needed to use up one last credit. I checked my “I Want To Read This” list and hunted for something I could get on Audible that I couldn’t get on Scribd and VOILA! The Girl With All the Gifts by MR Carey seemed like a fabulous option.
Remember a while back when I was talking about Zone One (review) and praising the fact that Colson Whitehead took a different approach to the zombie genre? The Girl With All the Gifts did that. Times a zillion.
Melanie is a little girl. She lives in a cell and each day she’s brought to school after being thoroughly strapped into a wheelchair while being held at gunpoint. All the other children in her class are given subject to the same living conditions and restraints. Despite the odd treatment, Melanie is at the top of her class and adores one of her teachers, Miss Justineau. Miss Justineau treats the children kindly, despite the fact that they’re restrained. I don’t know how to discuss this book without getting spoilery, though I don’t suppose it’s much of a leap to guess why the military personnel don’t laugh when Melanie jokes that she “won’t bite.”
This book was SO GOOD, you guys. I was expecting to enjoy it, but egads it was amazing. Elements of the book reminded me at times of The Passage by Justin Cronin (review) and I Am Legend by Richard Matheson (review) but it still maintained a level of originality that blew me away. Just pick up the book, dagnabit, words are failing me.
Talk to me Bookworms! What was the last book you read that left you awestruck?
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Quirky Chrissy
That sounds good! The last book I read that left me awestruck was Dear Stephanie. I read Bossypants right after that and was thoroughly disappointed, but I suppose it’s hard to fall in love with every book you read, right? I’ll put this one on my list.
Erin @ Biblionomad
I loved this book so much! You’re right, it’s hard to talk about without spoilers, but I will say the ending was absolutely perfect.
Rhian
This was a cracking book. They’re making a movie of it and I reckon the girl they cast to play Melanie will need to be amazing.
I think Code Name Verity was the most recent book I’ve read that had that ‘What? Wow!’ kind of impact, though still not quite as mind blowing as Gifts.
kristin @ my little heart melodies
Yes! This was one of my favorites from last year. I also listened to the audio version—so good!
Jennine G.
I’m convinced! Going on the list to check into!
Heather @ Capricious Reader
Now Mildred. You know I’ve sworn off **those books**. I don’t know if I can give up that vow! But dang it, if you don’t have me wanting to. All right, all right! Quit twisting me arm!
thatashgirl
Ooo I may have to read this.
I’m loving Scribd by the way.
Words For Worms
Yes, yes you do.
Michelle
You just made me add this to my audiobook wishlist. I can’t wait!!
Words For Worms
It’s sooooooo good!
Katie @ Doing Dewey
Everything I’ve heard about this book has been very positive and very intriguing! I must know what’s going on! 🙂
Words For Worms
I’d love to hear your take on it, Katie!