Stranger

Welcome to the quaint little town of Las Anclas, a frontier town with high surrounding walls and guards constantly watching from above. Interestingly, those guards are many ages, from teenagers to adults, and they all look like they know how to handle those weapons they’re carrying.

In this harsh world, places like Las Anclas are necessary refuges. You’re either a normal human or a mutant who is “Changed,” giving you special powers and abilities. There are those who will respect you for being different, and others who will despise you.

Ross Juarez has just escaped death from a bounty hunter, and the lethally dangerous crystalline trees and have made it to Las Anclas. There, he will make friends, but also enemies. He is also in possession of a special ancient book written in a language he can’t read.

Stranger is one of the few post-apocalyptic young adult books to earn its place next to Hunger Games. The diversity of the cast makes this made-up world a completely believable one. The science fiction elements leave you shivering with fright, but also wanting to understand more. By the end of the book, you’ll be looking for the sequel; fortunately, there is one.