Birthmarked
Author(s): Caragh M. O'Brien
In the future, in a world baked dry by the harsh sun, there are those who live inside the wall and those, like sixteen-year-old midwife, Gaia Stone, who live outside. Gaia has always believed it is her duty, with her mother, to hand over a small quota of babies to the Enclave. But when Gaia's mother and father are arrested by the very people they so dutifully serve, Gaia is forced to question everything she has been taught to believe. Gaia's choice is now simple: enter the world of the Enclave to rescue her parents, or die trying.
Review(s):
“Readers who enjoy adventures with a strong heroine standing up to authority against the odds will enjoy this compelling tale.” —School Library Journal
“A wonderful addition to the dystopian genre.” —TeensReadToo.com
“Reminiscent of both 1984 and a Brave New World, this gripping page-turner is a perfect intro to futuristic, dystopian fiction . . . Readers accompany the novel's inspiring heroine on an undertaking brimming with danger, intrigue, and romance.” —Education.com
“O'Brien's . . . impulsive and spirited heroine . . . is the kind readers adore.” —Booklist
“This science fiction adventure is a brisk and sometimes provocative read, thanks to solid pacing, a resourceful heroine, and a few surprise twists.” —Publishers Weekly
“Well-written and fast-paced.” —VOYA
“In grand dystopic tradition.” —Kirkus Reviews
“It was a very good book that made me think.” —Abby, age 12
“I love dystopian futures. Birthmarked is great dystopian future.” —Sam, age 16
Winner Rhode Island Children's Book Award, Long-listed Georgia Peach Book Award Master List (2011), American Library Association Best Books for Young Adults (2011), Long-listed ALA Best Books for Young Adults (2011), Long-listed Texas TAYSHAS High School Reading List (2011), Winner Capitol Choices Noteworthy Titles for Children and Teens (2011), Long-listed Arkansas Teen Book Award ML (2012)
ISBN: 9780312674724