Next up in the YA List: Double Helix by Nancy Werlin
Dial Books, 2004
256 p.
Reading level: middle and high school
Curriculum areas: English, Biology, Ethics, Psychology
Teacher's Guide (co-authored by my YA Professor)
School Library Journal explains that "Werlin clearly and dramatically raises fundamental bioethical issues for teens to ponder. She also creates a riveting story with sharply etched characters and complex relationships that will stick with readers long after the book is closed. An essential purchase for YA collections." In Booklist's starred review, they write that "Werlin has proved herself to be one of the best youth thriller writers working today." In this book, "Werlin delivers more than just a solid thriller-cum-growing-up story. She offers a thoughtful consideration of genetic engineering and takes a stand, but not at the expense of an intriguing mystery." The review calls it "A solidly crafted, thoughtful novel featuring a clever, obsessed kid who finds truths, small and large, about life, family, and, of course, himself."
A good one to start some interesting discussions about genetic engineering and ethics. I enjoyed it -- I liked the characters and thought it was well told. And it definitely makes you think.
Posted by Emily at March 20, 2005 11:06 AM