' This book was a little bit like Feed and a lot like what I remember of Ender's Game, but whether or not it was very original, I totally enjoyed it. Can't wait to see what she does next with this series. ' It took me waaaay too long to finish this, and I definitely did not enjoy it as much as everyone else, apparently. ' Perfect example that we can have a well written futuristic sci-fi YA book without all the characters being white. I think my middle schoolers will like it.

The characters were strong and plot moved well.

Overall Performance: Narration Rating: Story Rating:.

Very high tech and cool, but not so much so that I was left trying to figure out what was going on. That was perhaps my favorite thing about this book-how our protagonist learns about real friends, how real their interactions were, and how those relationships come to be meaningful to him. Okay, so maybe think a more humane Ender's Game that highlights relationships. And with a wonderful theme of friendship throughout. Think Ender's Game, but without the language and extreme violence. 'This was just what I needed-a fast-paced, exciting, intriguing read. Kincaid’s futuristic thrill ride of a debut crackles with memorable characters, tremendous wit, and a vision of the future that asks startling, timely questions about the melding of humanity and technology. Life at the Spire holds everything that Tom’s always wanted-friends, the possibility of a girlfriend, and a life where his every action matters-but what will it cost him? Finally, he’ll be someone important: a superhuman war machine with the tech skills that every virtual-reality warrior dreams of. There, Tom’s instincts for combat will be put to the test and if he passes, he’ll become a member of the Intrasolar Forces, helping to lead his country to victory in World War III.

Someone’s been watching his virtual-reality prowess, and he’s offered the incredible-a place at the Pentagonal Spire, an elite military academy. Keeping a roof over their heads depends on a careful combination of skill, luck, con artistry, and staying invisible. For years, Tom’s drifted from casino to casino with his unlucky gambler of a dad, gaming for their survival. More than anything, Tom Raines wants to be important, though his shadowy life is anything but that.

Insignia by sj kincaid