About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle schooler is navigating a major life transition, like starting a new school or moving, and feels like they have to hide their true self to fit in. This dystopian sequel follows Luke, an illegal third child, as he assumes a dead boy's identity to attend a rigid boarding school. It captures the paralyzing anxiety of being an outsider and the intense pressure of high-stakes environments. While the setting is science fiction, the emotional core deals with the very real struggles of social anxiety, bullying, and the search for authentic identity. It is a gripping choice for children aged 9 to 14 who enjoy fast-paced mysteries and stories about standing up for oneself against the odds.
