What do you think?
Rate this book
Tankborn #1
Tankborn
Best friends Kayla and Mishalla know they will be separated for their Assignments. They are GENs, Genetically Engineered Non-humans, and in their strict caste system, GENs are at the bottom rung of society. GENs are gestated in a tank and sent to work as slaves as soon as they reach age fifteen.
When Kayla is Assigned to care for Zul Manel, the patriarch of a trueborn family, she finds secrets and surprises—not least of which is her unexpected friendship with Zul’s great-grandson. Meanwhile, the children that Mishalla is Assigned to care for are being stolen in the middle of the night.
After weeks of toiling in their Assignments, mystifying circumstances enable Kayla and Mishalla to reunite. Together they hatch a plan to save the disappearing children. Yet can GENs really trust humans? Both girls must put their lives and hearts at risk to crack open a sinister conspiracy, revealing secrets no one is ready to face.
When Kayla is Assigned to care for Zul Manel, the patriarch of a trueborn family, she finds secrets and surprises—not least of which is her unexpected friendship with Zul’s great-grandson. Meanwhile, the children that Mishalla is Assigned to care for are being stolen in the middle of the night.
After weeks of toiling in their Assignments, mystifying circumstances enable Kayla and Mishalla to reunite. Together they hatch a plan to save the disappearing children. Yet can GENs really trust humans? Both girls must put their lives and hearts at risk to crack open a sinister conspiracy, revealing secrets no one is ready to face.
373 pages, Nook
First published September 15, 2011
40 people are currently reading
6900 people want to read
About the author
Karen Sandler
76 books84 followersKaren Sandler grew up in L.A. County’s South Bay, fishing for bonito off the Redondo Beach pier, crunching on sand in her tuna sandwiches, and roasting in the sun until she was lobster-red.
By age 9, she knew she wanted to be a writer without having the slightest notion what that involved. She was practical enough to earn a BA in math & physics and an MS in computer science (hence her love of science fiction), but her software engineering career took a sharp U-turn when she quit to write full-time.
She's the author of numerous novels, screenwriter of a few short films, and now knows exactly what a writer does—tell stories that linger in the hearts of her audience.
By age 9, she knew she wanted to be a writer without having the slightest notion what that involved. She was practical enough to earn a BA in math & physics and an MS in computer science (hence her love of science fiction), but her software engineering career took a sharp U-turn when she quit to write full-time.
She's the author of numerous novels, screenwriter of a few short films, and now knows exactly what a writer does—tell stories that linger in the hearts of her audience.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
November 17, 2011
"When is the DNA surely human? When is it not?"
"I speak. I feel. I laugh and cry." She broke off and looked away briefly. "Some things I want so badly I think I'll die of it. I do worship the Infinite. But to be told everyday that I'm not human..."
In the 400 years since the end of Earth, human society is a vastly different place on the Planet Loka. There are levitating cars, strange monstrous creatures, and babies that are suddenly taken by the government without any explanation. Best friends Kayla and Mishalla were not born of birth mothers in this world, but were designed to be GENS, Genetically Engineered Non-Humans. Each GEN is enhanced with special skill sets that make them desirable workers for trueborns, who are the wealthy, high status members of society. When Kayla is assigned to work for a dying trueborn named Zul Mandel, she must leave her nurture family and the only home she's ever known--and she's forced into close proximity with his all-too-attractive grandson Devak.
The GENs are really slaves, forced into servitude and at the mercy of a cruel caste system that treats them as lower than the lowest born human. Skin color, clothing, jewels, land, drugs, and levitating cars are all blatant status symbols in this world, and it's interesting to see how the author works in echoes of previous shameful world events in the segregation of the GENs, the widely-held belief that touching a GEN would result in shriveled skin or crooked bones, and even in the saying "Work will make you safe," which is of course derived from "Work makes us free" from Nazi Germany and "Be happy in your work" from The Bridge Over the River Kwai. These themes are all intelligently and subtly worked into the book in a way that never feels too blatant or pretentious.
Once the story got going, there are plenty of exciting events and issues to think about. I was fascinated by the well thought-out society as well as the presentation of the two very different religions to which humans and GENs subscribe. There is finely built tension in several "search and seizure" type scenes and there were moments when I felt terrible pity and sorrow for the characters, including the first time Kayla comes upon the gorgeous Mandel house and sees the shocking contrast to the slums where GENs are kept, and Kayla's constant, devastating fear of punishment by being "reset," which wipes out all of a GEN's existing personality but retains his or her body for recycling and reuse.
There are a couple of really nice, slow-building romances in this book, but as the relationships between Kayla and Devak and between Mishalla and Eoghan develop, the young protagonists also discover who they really are and what they really stand for. Some of the best parts of the book are the forbidden, snatched conversations between Kayla and Devak as they discuss what makes someone beautiful, what makes someone kind, and most importantly, what makes someone human.
I do wish that the bookends to the novel were a little longer, as the beginning was a little abrupt and all the new names and rules and creatures took some getting used to. A little more time showing the friendship between Kayla and Mishalla before their Assignments would have helped as well. The ending chapters following the climax could have been a little more developed too, as they felt a little rushed to me and some of the details involving Devak's father were a bit sketchy.
Still, this was an immensely enjoyable dystopian novel with excellent character development, a complex story, and nuanced themes, with everything I had hoped for from A Long, Long Sleep and Matched, but didn't quite get. The ending leaves the door open a bit for a possible sequel, and I for one would very much like to visit Kayla's world again.
Tankborn is one of the first books from Lee & Low's new Tu imprint, which is dedicated to publishing YA books with protagonists of color. The majority of the characteristics, society, and customs in this book are derived from South Asian and African-American influences, and if this is an indication of the type of products that Tu will be producing, then sign me up as a dedicated fan. This is the sort of young adult literature we can definitely use more of--books that not only feature more diversity and world views, but ones that are also thoughtfully conceived and exceptionally well-written.
This review also appears in The Midnight Garden. An advance copy was provided by the publisher.
Additional Content:
On the book's official website, you can Visit Planet Loka, where you can see illustrations of the giant arachnid animals that inhabit this unusual world. There's also a free short story download that is set in the Tankborn universe. Enjoy!
"I speak. I feel. I laugh and cry." She broke off and looked away briefly. "Some things I want so badly I think I'll die of it. I do worship the Infinite. But to be told everyday that I'm not human..."
In the 400 years since the end of Earth, human society is a vastly different place on the Planet Loka. There are levitating cars, strange monstrous creatures, and babies that are suddenly taken by the government without any explanation. Best friends Kayla and Mishalla were not born of birth mothers in this world, but were designed to be GENS, Genetically Engineered Non-Humans. Each GEN is enhanced with special skill sets that make them desirable workers for trueborns, who are the wealthy, high status members of society. When Kayla is assigned to work for a dying trueborn named Zul Mandel, she must leave her nurture family and the only home she's ever known--and she's forced into close proximity with his all-too-attractive grandson Devak.
The GENs are really slaves, forced into servitude and at the mercy of a cruel caste system that treats them as lower than the lowest born human. Skin color, clothing, jewels, land, drugs, and levitating cars are all blatant status symbols in this world, and it's interesting to see how the author works in echoes of previous shameful world events in the segregation of the GENs, the widely-held belief that touching a GEN would result in shriveled skin or crooked bones, and even in the saying "Work will make you safe," which is of course derived from "Work makes us free" from Nazi Germany and "Be happy in your work" from The Bridge Over the River Kwai. These themes are all intelligently and subtly worked into the book in a way that never feels too blatant or pretentious.
Once the story got going, there are plenty of exciting events and issues to think about. I was fascinated by the well thought-out society as well as the presentation of the two very different religions to which humans and GENs subscribe. There is finely built tension in several "search and seizure" type scenes and there were moments when I felt terrible pity and sorrow for the characters, including the first time Kayla comes upon the gorgeous Mandel house and sees the shocking contrast to the slums where GENs are kept, and Kayla's constant, devastating fear of punishment by being "reset," which wipes out all of a GEN's existing personality but retains his or her body for recycling and reuse.
There are a couple of really nice, slow-building romances in this book, but as the relationships between Kayla and Devak and between Mishalla and Eoghan develop, the young protagonists also discover who they really are and what they really stand for. Some of the best parts of the book are the forbidden, snatched conversations between Kayla and Devak as they discuss what makes someone beautiful, what makes someone kind, and most importantly, what makes someone human.
I do wish that the bookends to the novel were a little longer, as the beginning was a little abrupt and all the new names and rules and creatures took some getting used to. A little more time showing the friendship between Kayla and Mishalla before their Assignments would have helped as well. The ending chapters following the climax could have been a little more developed too, as they felt a little rushed to me and some of the details involving Devak's father were a bit sketchy.
Still, this was an immensely enjoyable dystopian novel with excellent character development, a complex story, and nuanced themes, with everything I had hoped for from A Long, Long Sleep and Matched, but didn't quite get. The ending leaves the door open a bit for a possible sequel, and I for one would very much like to visit Kayla's world again.
Tankborn is one of the first books from Lee & Low's new Tu imprint, which is dedicated to publishing YA books with protagonists of color. The majority of the characteristics, society, and customs in this book are derived from South Asian and African-American influences, and if this is an indication of the type of products that Tu will be producing, then sign me up as a dedicated fan. This is the sort of young adult literature we can definitely use more of--books that not only feature more diversity and world views, but ones that are also thoughtfully conceived and exceptionally well-written.
This review also appears in The Midnight Garden. An advance copy was provided by the publisher.
Additional Content:
On the book's official website, you can Visit Planet Loka, where you can see illustrations of the giant arachnid animals that inhabit this unusual world. There's also a free short story download that is set in the Tankborn universe. Enjoy!
January 19, 2012
This is one of those very rare occasions when I feel comfortable recommending a book I didn’t enjoy myself. Tankborn is a story that raises some very important issues and manages to make all the necessary points while completely avoiding a condescending tone. It is a dystopian novel with elements of science fiction, and I think it’s safe to say that it stands out among the (too) many dystopian novels that seem to be growing like mushrooms these days.
There are three levels of society in Tankborn: tankborns, genetically engineered non-humans, created specifically for one purpose by adding a certain skill set (sket); lowborns, usually manual workers and certainly not rich, but with rights and control over their lives; and trueborns, nobility of sorts, who have wealth, power and complete control over tankborns.
Tankborn is told from three different points of view: Kayla’s, Mishalla’s and Devak’s. Both Kayla and Mishalla are tankborns. Kayla was made stronger than an average human and she is meant to be a caregiver, and Mishalla’s genes were altered in a way that allows her to be a good nanny and her job is to take care of children. As tankborns, neither of the girls has any rights, they are essentially slaves. Kayla is considered a freak even among her own because her GEN tattoo is on the wrong cheek. Devak is a trueborn, from one of the most prominent families on Loki. He saves Kayla and her nurture brother Jal from some boys and later Kayla gets assigned to take care of his grandfather.
While the social structure was carefully thought out and very convincing, the worlbuilding left a lot to be desired. Tankborn is set on a planet called Loka that reminded me too much of Earth in every way. I felt that the author, having decided to create this planet, should have seen it through and given the readers a little more information about it. There was a brief description of some animals on Loka at the very beginning that caused me to get my hopes up, but after that, the planet itself stopped being important.
The few mammals on Loka weren’t as hideous as the spider-creatures. The wary seycats that kept the vermin down in the warehouses sported intriguing pelts and tall tufted ears. The six-legged droms that roamed the plains had thick mottled wool and droopy noses and only one pair of large black eyes set in their camel-like heads.
Do you see now why I wanted more of that? To have one such passage in the first chapter, and nothing after, was a little disappointing.
I can’t say that I was really convinced by Devak’s feelings for Kayla. He went from not wanting to touch her and being disgusted by her to liking her a little too quickly for my taste.
Tankborn is a solidly written story about racism, hatred and survival of friendship. It’s entirely my fault that I didn’t enjoy it more, and while that information may be useless for other readers, I really can’t lie and say that I liked it more than I did. Part of my problem was that it felt more like a middle grade novel than young adult. I’m nevertheless pretty sure that fans of dystopia will be thrilled with these characters and society.
For this review and more, please visit The Nocturnal Library
There are three levels of society in Tankborn: tankborns, genetically engineered non-humans, created specifically for one purpose by adding a certain skill set (sket); lowborns, usually manual workers and certainly not rich, but with rights and control over their lives; and trueborns, nobility of sorts, who have wealth, power and complete control over tankborns.
Tankborn is told from three different points of view: Kayla’s, Mishalla’s and Devak’s. Both Kayla and Mishalla are tankborns. Kayla was made stronger than an average human and she is meant to be a caregiver, and Mishalla’s genes were altered in a way that allows her to be a good nanny and her job is to take care of children. As tankborns, neither of the girls has any rights, they are essentially slaves. Kayla is considered a freak even among her own because her GEN tattoo is on the wrong cheek. Devak is a trueborn, from one of the most prominent families on Loki. He saves Kayla and her nurture brother Jal from some boys and later Kayla gets assigned to take care of his grandfather.
While the social structure was carefully thought out and very convincing, the worlbuilding left a lot to be desired. Tankborn is set on a planet called Loka that reminded me too much of Earth in every way. I felt that the author, having decided to create this planet, should have seen it through and given the readers a little more information about it. There was a brief description of some animals on Loka at the very beginning that caused me to get my hopes up, but after that, the planet itself stopped being important.
The few mammals on Loka weren’t as hideous as the spider-creatures. The wary seycats that kept the vermin down in the warehouses sported intriguing pelts and tall tufted ears. The six-legged droms that roamed the plains had thick mottled wool and droopy noses and only one pair of large black eyes set in their camel-like heads.
Do you see now why I wanted more of that? To have one such passage in the first chapter, and nothing after, was a little disappointing.
I can’t say that I was really convinced by Devak’s feelings for Kayla. He went from not wanting to touch her and being disgusted by her to liking her a little too quickly for my taste.
Tankborn is a solidly written story about racism, hatred and survival of friendship. It’s entirely my fault that I didn’t enjoy it more, and while that information may be useless for other readers, I really can’t lie and say that I liked it more than I did. Part of my problem was that it felt more like a middle grade novel than young adult. I’m nevertheless pretty sure that fans of dystopia will be thrilled with these characters and society.
For this review and more, please visit The Nocturnal Library
August 6, 2016
Let’s just get straight to it: I loved Tankborn. If I’m being really, really honest, I wasn’t looking too forward to reading it. It’s the second to last book in my Dystopian August schedule and I had yet to come across a book that was mostly dystopian. I’ve had post-apocalyptic and science fiction, often with dystopian-type aspects (and some with none) but nothing like Matched, Divergent, The Giver or The Hunger Games – ‘traditional’ dystopian societies. The reason I was apprehensive about Tankborn was that it looked very science-fiction-y. It is, but it’s also extremely believable. I consider it to be dystopian as the society is at the heart of the storyline.
Tankborn is set on a different planet: Loca, which, as far as I could tell, is identical to Earth. The story is told from two perspectives – Kayla and Mishalla – Genetically Engineered Non-humans (GENs) and in the society they live in, there is a strict caste system. GENs are at the very bottom of the hierarchy and once they turn 15-years-old, they are sent to be slaves to ‘trueborns’ (ranging from low-status to high-status trueborns).
The world-building is very well done: the society is clearly described and in detail; I could easily picture it and understand its social rules and the implications for rule-breaking. I did feel a chill run down my spine as one of the main characters discovers a ‘real’ book and comments on how the words are written on paper and not on a virtual screen; I read this book on a Kindle. It also introduces new terms such as “skets” (skill sets), which I found easy to grasp and learn. However, what makes Tankborn stand out is that it explores issues of class and race as this is what the strict caste system is based on. It’s extremely thought-provoking and although it is fictional and futuristic, it mirrors our own society.
Tankborn won’t get as much publicity, and therefore hype, as the above books but it is definitely worth checking out. It has traditional dystopian aspects: the police-state, the underground rebels, the control of beliefs and ideas, control of freedom and individual rights, and control over relationships; all of which may seem very fictional but are instead very real. I very much enjoyed learning about Kayla and Mishalla’s society and their individual stories so I am giving Tankborn 5/5 stars.
This book was obtained as an eGalley from Tu Books.
Dystopian or Not Dystopian? Dystopian
I also reviewed this book over on Pretty Books.
Tankborn is set on a different planet: Loca, which, as far as I could tell, is identical to Earth. The story is told from two perspectives – Kayla and Mishalla – Genetically Engineered Non-humans (GENs) and in the society they live in, there is a strict caste system. GENs are at the very bottom of the hierarchy and once they turn 15-years-old, they are sent to be slaves to ‘trueborns’ (ranging from low-status to high-status trueborns).
The world-building is very well done: the society is clearly described and in detail; I could easily picture it and understand its social rules and the implications for rule-breaking. I did feel a chill run down my spine as one of the main characters discovers a ‘real’ book and comments on how the words are written on paper and not on a virtual screen; I read this book on a Kindle. It also introduces new terms such as “skets” (skill sets), which I found easy to grasp and learn. However, what makes Tankborn stand out is that it explores issues of class and race as this is what the strict caste system is based on. It’s extremely thought-provoking and although it is fictional and futuristic, it mirrors our own society.
Tankborn won’t get as much publicity, and therefore hype, as the above books but it is definitely worth checking out. It has traditional dystopian aspects: the police-state, the underground rebels, the control of beliefs and ideas, control of freedom and individual rights, and control over relationships; all of which may seem very fictional but are instead very real. I very much enjoyed learning about Kayla and Mishalla’s society and their individual stories so I am giving Tankborn 5/5 stars.
This book was obtained as an eGalley from Tu Books.
Dystopian or Not Dystopian? Dystopian
I also reviewed this book over on Pretty Books.
November 12, 2011
Generations ago, a select few fled Earth to colonize a new world. The rich who funded the project became known as "high-born," the scientists and engineers into "demi-status" and the laborers as "lowborn." The low born were only supposed to stay in indentured servitude for 50 years, but by that time, the caste system was too entrenched to break out of. Just when lowborn riots started becoming a serious problem, the GENs appeared. Gifted with the strength or senses of animals, with brains that could be wiped or overwritten with a single command, the GENs were the perfect work force.
Kayla is a GEN just assigned to her first job at the ripe old age of 15. She's to care for a sickly high-born man, Zul, but coming in contact with him embroils her in a global conspiracy.
This is not a good book. The major plot twist is absurdly obvious.
The characters make no sense. Zul
Kayla goes on and on about how terrible it is to be ripped from her family in order to serve elsewhere, but when she's finally got the ability to contact them, it never crosses her mind. She gets access to but never thinks about letting her supposedly beloved family in on the secret. She meets some random hot highborn dude that's alternately nice and cruel to her, and considers herself desperately in love with him after only (at most) a few months. Meanwhile, her bff Mishalla falls in love with *her* hot dude, Crazypants!
Maybe if I were much, much younger, and had read less sf and dystopic ya books already, I would like this book. As it is, it mostly reads as an uninspired retread of the same ol' tropes, not particularly well-handled.
Kayla is a GEN just assigned to her first job at the ripe old age of 15. She's to care for a sickly high-born man, Zul, but coming in contact with him embroils her in a global conspiracy.
This is not a good book. The major plot twist is absurdly obvious.
The characters make no sense. Zul
Kayla goes on and on about how terrible it is to be ripped from her family in order to serve elsewhere, but when she's finally got the ability to contact them, it never crosses her mind. She gets access to but never thinks about letting her supposedly beloved family in on the secret. She meets some random hot highborn dude that's alternately nice and cruel to her, and considers herself desperately in love with him after only (at most) a few months. Meanwhile, her bff Mishalla falls in love with *her* hot dude, Crazypants!
Maybe if I were much, much younger, and had read less sf and dystopic ya books already, I would like this book. As it is, it mostly reads as an uninspired retread of the same ol' tropes, not particularly well-handled.
November 27, 2011
Read This Review & More Like It On My Blog!
Tankborn surprised me. What I initially assumed was simply a run-of-the-mill, churn-'em-out-quick young-adult dystopia, Tankborn emerges as a strong novel with compelling adult-ish themes about defining what humanity and beauty mean to every individual. Clocking in at a nice length of almost 400 pages, Karen Sandler creates a distinctive, dark and utterly readable world with her science fiction gem. I would put her indie-published Tankborn up there with The Hunger Games and The Demi-Monde: Winter as the best young-adult dystopias I have had the pleasure to read in 2011. Simply and best put: Tankborn is an all-inclusive novel that is not one to miss for any reader that appreciates well-rounded plot, outstanding and three-dimensional characters within an alien but totally interesting location.
The beginning of the novel does suffer a bit from a rushed introduction to a large variety of terms, places, people, scientific ideas. The book very quickly dispenses with needed information and details, and Tankborn is quickly a rewarding and interesting read. This is a standalone novel that doesn't stint on imagination: from vocabulary to flora and fauna, Karen Sandler left no stone unturned in creating her highly-realized and almost tangible Loka (I also wondered if the name "Loka" was a statement that the way of life on the planet was well . . loca. Sorry, I make bad jokes.) With both ominous and interesting-sounding names like sewer-toads, droms, seycats and (eeugh!!) giant spiders known as bhimkay, Loka is a wild tangle of creative, and very original plots and threads that mesh very well together. Over and over, I both felt that this was a book that was crafted so believably and so intricately as well as being very impressed by the effort of the author. It felt probable in a way I had had not anticipated for a youg-adult science fiction novel about gene-spicing and engineered people. It helps that the "science" of the novel is basic and minimal, without missing out on specificity or indulging in ridiculousness.
Kayla, the main character and my personal favorite of the varied lot, is a 14th-year GEN - otherwise known to everyone on the planet of Loka as a Genetically Engineered Non-human. In the 400 years since humans left earth, "gene-splicers" have mixed animal and human DNA, ascribing certain skill sets to each individual GEN. Within her very intricate, detailed and striated society because if this DNA and her tank-origin, Kayla represents the lowest of the low on the entire planet of Loka. Marked with identifying facial tattoos, Kayla's caste is reminiscent of both the "untouchables" of real-world India's infamous social pyramid mixed with the downtrodden Jewish population of Nazi Germany. I really liked Kayla through the course of her struggles; this is a girl considered less than human, but one that genuinely empathizes and sympathizes with a trueborn even on her worst day. I do wish the novel had shown her with her tanksister and fellow main character Mishalla, but Kayla does not disappoint on her own. It's also refreshing to once again read a character of color, without her skin tone becoming her defining characteristic.
I can't say too much about Kayla's tanksister Mishalla. One of the few issues I had with this delightful read were with this particular character. She lacked initiative and in such a situation as she was in - it just drove me crazy for her to just sit and worry for 250 pages. I also felt her romance with the rarely-seen Eoghan was completely unrealistic. The reader sees them together maybe three times before the ending, and I never bought into their "love". Also . Now, lets talk about Kayla's love interest Devak. I liked him infinitely more than Eoghan and Mishalla, and thought his rounded personality of hedged kindness, curiousity and sheer arrogance presented a very real face/name for the readers to root for redemption. He's a bit naive, as is Kayla, in that these two believe so much of what they are told and do not question authority at all. I did like Kayla's and Devak's approach to their "relationship": it was mature, it was giving and especially at the end, it was surprising.
Echoing the earlier Nazi-vibes with the facial tattoos/identification of Kayla and the rest of the GENs, is the party saying, "Work Will Make You Safe" for the lowest of their rigid and regimented society (Nazi's used the infamous "Arbeit macht frei" meaning "works makes us free" above the concentration camp of Aushwitz.) This omnipresent saying is both a reminder of the GENs own mythology of work ensuring happiness and reward after death from their deity The Infinite and also serves as a subtle threat from the government. The message is simple: the GENs existence is only suffered as a work force. If a GEN doesn't work, it is useless and will be "reset", or "realigned" out of existence. I love the multiple facets of real-world hatred and oppresion were worked into the framework of the soceity within Tankborn. From the allusions to Nazism and the "untouchable" aspect akin to India mentioned earlier, I also felt an echo of the United States slavery and continuing racial issues into the 1960's. Like blacks and whites of Earth before the Civil Rights Act, the GENs of Loka cannot share a water fountain, a seat with a trueborn: immediate action and punishment would follow were they to even try. Human suffering and oppression are universal, sadly, and Ms. Sandler's sad, but entirely apt homage to that fact only reinforces the solidity of her science fiction creation.
(Warning: Slight spoilers ahead) All that praise written above is not to say I did not have a few quibbles with Tankborn. I sometimes felt that Kayla'sneverending search for understanding and answers seemed a tad drawn out... especially when the man with literally ALL THE ANSWERS has both had illicit and seditious coversations with the main character as well as living less than 100 feet away. If a little time had been trimmed off her to-and-fro'ing, it would've been a more seamless (and sensical) read. I also wondered just why the gene-splicers are having issues creating new GENs - if they've had no issues the first 50 years of the experiments, why all of the sudden there is an issue? Still, these are two very minor issues waving in the face of much more win and awesome, so I didn't fixate on the irritations.
With an open ending that manages to both fulfill open-ended questions and leave a possibility for more in this complex world, Tankborn is a win. I will be on the constant lookout for more books from this author, set in this world/series or not. Karen Sandler is most impressive with her science fiction, young-adult dystopia set in a world far far away. It's a relevant and insightful look into racism, young love and burgeoning independence.
Tankborn surprised me. What I initially assumed was simply a run-of-the-mill, churn-'em-out-quick young-adult dystopia, Tankborn emerges as a strong novel with compelling adult-ish themes about defining what humanity and beauty mean to every individual. Clocking in at a nice length of almost 400 pages, Karen Sandler creates a distinctive, dark and utterly readable world with her science fiction gem. I would put her indie-published Tankborn up there with The Hunger Games and The Demi-Monde: Winter as the best young-adult dystopias I have had the pleasure to read in 2011. Simply and best put: Tankborn is an all-inclusive novel that is not one to miss for any reader that appreciates well-rounded plot, outstanding and three-dimensional characters within an alien but totally interesting location.
The beginning of the novel does suffer a bit from a rushed introduction to a large variety of terms, places, people, scientific ideas. The book very quickly dispenses with needed information and details, and Tankborn is quickly a rewarding and interesting read. This is a standalone novel that doesn't stint on imagination: from vocabulary to flora and fauna, Karen Sandler left no stone unturned in creating her highly-realized and almost tangible Loka (I also wondered if the name "Loka" was a statement that the way of life on the planet was well . . loca. Sorry, I make bad jokes.) With both ominous and interesting-sounding names like sewer-toads, droms, seycats and (
Kayla, the main character and my personal favorite of the varied lot, is a 14th-year GEN - otherwise known to everyone on the planet of Loka as a Genetically Engineered Non-human. In the 400 years since humans left earth, "gene-splicers" have mixed animal and human DNA, ascribing certain skill sets to each individual GEN. Within her very intricate, detailed and striated society because if this DNA and her tank-origin, Kayla represents the lowest of the low on the entire planet of Loka. Marked with identifying facial tattoos, Kayla's caste is reminiscent of both the "untouchables" of real-world India's infamous social pyramid mixed with the downtrodden Jewish population of Nazi Germany. I really liked Kayla through the course of her struggles; this is a girl considered less than human, but one that genuinely empathizes and sympathizes with a trueborn even on her worst day. I do wish the novel had shown her with her tanksister and fellow main character Mishalla, but Kayla does not disappoint on her own. It's also refreshing to once again read a character of color, without her skin tone becoming her defining characteristic.
I can't say too much about Kayla's tanksister Mishalla. One of the few issues I had with this delightful read were with this particular character. She lacked initiative and in such a situation as she was in - it just drove me crazy for her to just sit and worry for 250 pages. I also felt her romance with the rarely-seen Eoghan was completely unrealistic. The reader sees them together maybe three times before the ending, and I never bought into their "love". Also . Now, lets talk about Kayla's love interest Devak. I liked him infinitely more than Eoghan and Mishalla, and thought his rounded personality of hedged kindness, curiousity and sheer arrogance presented a very real face/name for the readers to root for redemption. He's a bit naive, as is Kayla, in that these two believe so much of what they are told and do not question authority at all. I did like Kayla's and Devak's approach to their "relationship": it was mature, it was giving and especially at the end, it was surprising.
Echoing the earlier Nazi-vibes with the facial tattoos/identification of Kayla and the rest of the GENs, is the party saying, "Work Will Make You Safe" for the lowest of their rigid and regimented society (Nazi's used the infamous "Arbeit macht frei" meaning "works makes us free" above the concentration camp of Aushwitz.) This omnipresent saying is both a reminder of the GENs own mythology of work ensuring happiness and reward after death from their deity The Infinite and also serves as a subtle threat from the government. The message is simple: the GENs existence is only suffered as a work force. If a GEN doesn't work, it is useless and will be "reset", or "realigned" out of existence. I love the multiple facets of real-world hatred and oppresion were worked into the framework of the soceity within Tankborn. From the allusions to Nazism and the "untouchable" aspect akin to India mentioned earlier, I also felt an echo of the United States slavery and continuing racial issues into the 1960's. Like blacks and whites of Earth before the Civil Rights Act, the GENs of Loka cannot share a water fountain, a seat with a trueborn: immediate action and punishment would follow were they to even try. Human suffering and oppression are universal, sadly, and Ms. Sandler's sad, but entirely apt homage to that fact only reinforces the solidity of her science fiction creation.
(Warning: Slight spoilers ahead) All that praise written above is not to say I did not have a few quibbles with Tankborn. I sometimes felt that Kayla's
With an open ending that manages to both fulfill open-ended questions and leave a possibility for more in this complex world, Tankborn is a win. I will be on the constant lookout for more books from this author, set in this world/series or not. Karen Sandler is most impressive with her science fiction, young-adult dystopia set in a world far far away. It's a relevant and insightful look into racism, young love and burgeoning independence.
March 13, 2012
It's kind of funny...in reading through the other reviews of this book, everyone is all "O dystopia!" and the reason I was excited to read it was because it's a science fiction book and I cut my teeth, so to speak, on science fiction. And, in the interest of disclosure, it's also published by the publisher of my new book (Cat Girl's Day Off), which is how I came by my copy.
On a planet settled by people who had fled Earth some years before, society is rigidly divided into castes (based on the caste system in India but even more extreme). At the very bottom rung are the GENs, or the genetically modified non-humans. But are they non-human? Really?
Kayla is a GEN. She and her friend Mishalla have no plans of rebellion or striving for more; they are tied to their path in life (after all, their religion tells them it's the way to the Infinite). But the both of them wind up thoroughly entangled in things that may change their society forever. Devak, on the other hand, is a trueborn, born into the highest echelon of society. On the one hand, he has his mother and father, who tell him one way to behave. On the other, the influence of his grandfather, who teaches him respect. Which way will he go?
I really enjoyed this one. I thought the worldbuilding was quite good and convincing (which is the hardest part). And I'm really excited to see that there will be two more books! I really wanted to know what happens to Kayla and Devak next (Mishalla's story is pretty well wrapped up).
On a planet settled by people who had fled Earth some years before, society is rigidly divided into castes (based on the caste system in India but even more extreme). At the very bottom rung are the GENs, or the genetically modified non-humans. But are they non-human? Really?
Kayla is a GEN. She and her friend Mishalla have no plans of rebellion or striving for more; they are tied to their path in life (after all, their religion tells them it's the way to the Infinite). But the both of them wind up thoroughly entangled in things that may change their society forever. Devak, on the other hand, is a trueborn, born into the highest echelon of society. On the one hand, he has his mother and father, who tell him one way to behave. On the other, the influence of his grandfather, who teaches him respect. Which way will he go?
I really enjoyed this one. I thought the worldbuilding was quite good and convincing (which is the hardest part). And I'm really excited to see that there will be two more books! I really wanted to know what happens to Kayla and Devak next (Mishalla's story is pretty well wrapped up).
March 18, 2013
Originally Reviewed on The Book Smugglers: http://thebooksmugglers.com/2012/03/b...
On the distant world of Loka, lightyears away from Earth, humanity has changed. Separated into distinct, non-transmutable castes, Lokans run the spectrum from trueborn humans of untainted DNA and significant wealth to lowborn humans living in shanties and working menial jobs. At the very bottom of the hierarchy of power are the GENs – tankborns with human and animal DNA, as well as some machine integration, noted by a telltale tattoo on their right cheek. Every GEN is also enhanced with a special skill set (a “sket”), that will determine where they will work once they come of assignment age.
Kayla and her best friend Mishalla are both GENs from the same lowlying sector, Chadi. The slightly elder Mishalla is assigned to be a nurturer in a district thousands of kilometers away, and shortly after Kayla is assigned to be a private elderly caretaker for a wealthy trueborn family – and though the girls believe that they might never see each other again, their destinies are inextricably linked. While Mishalla is heartbroken as night after night her charges are taken away by lowborn nurturers, Kayla learns that her own charge, Zul Manel, has secrets from his past and plans for the future that will rock the very foundations of society. With the unexpected help of a trueborn human, Zul’s grandson Devak, and a lowborn human named Eoghan, Kayla and Mishalla will change everything.
I’m of two minds when it comes to Tankborn. The most important thing to say is: I absolutely head-over-heels LOVE the world that Ms. Sandler has created. Lee and Low books is a publisher dedicated to diversity and publishing books that feature or are by people of color, and Tankborn lives up to that mission with its fascinating, imaginative, and wonderfully diverse world. The society on Loka is stratified into different castes, with trueborns ranked high with their dark skin and diamond bali earrings, and lowborns with their paler skin and lower grade balis denoting status. GENs, not even considered human, are naught more than slaves, utterly deprived of basic rights and freedoms. Even more, the GEN belief system is a religion that glorifies in an ultimate, infinite being that has created trueborns and lowborns, and the GENs to serve them. And the coolest thing about this rigid social strata? None of it feels forced or overt – there is subtlety in Ms. Sandler’s writing, which is incredibly refreshing and appreciated, especially in a subgenre (YA SciFi Dystopia) that is chock-full of sledgehammer-technique message-making. There is an utter convincingness to this world order and cultural system that is both familiar, in those glimpses taken from aspects of human history, and alien.
In the same vein, the technological aspects of the world are believable (within the realm of science fiction, of course) with limitations, explanations, and technology that makes sense. The concept of GENs with their “annexed” and “bare” brains – where their machine integration allows the annexed portions to be programmed, and their biological portions to behave as a regular human brain would – is fascinating. The GEN tattoos that allow for the interfacing of technology to biology is an interesting conceit, and though the human-machine is a science fiction standby, Tankborn does so much to distinguish itself from the tired Cyborg routine by virtue of its complex social world.
I did mention that I am of two minds when it comes to Tanborn, though, all praises said. While I was completely won over by the intricate details and flawless worldbuilding, I felt underwhelmed by the actual plot and characters. The overarching story is meant to follow dual protagonists Kayla and Mishalla, but in practice the story is far more lopsided, as Kayla is undoubtedly our primary protagonist, with Mishalla’s story is interspliced every four or five chapters. As characters, Kayla is our clumsy heroine with physical strength as her sket and some emotional strength to match. Mishalla is similarly good-hearted and generally amiable. The thing is though, both characters lack bite. They are empathetic and we can feel for them as they struggle against a world in which they are controlled and mistreated, but there’s nothing particularly interesting or distinctive about either character. The story, too, is muted and lethargic, with the main conflict focused on the mysterious disappearing children, and a group of people that have approached Kayla and Mishalla (as well as other GENs) and have appropriated some of their programming and given them tech to hide and to pass on. Much of the novel is actually focused on Kayla as she struggles in her new role as Zul’s caregiver, and her burgeoning relationship with Devak, both of whom figure into the much larger plot. There are some revelations that happen in the last act of the novel, lackluster and somewhat trite.
Overall, Tankborn has a lot going for it – a beautifully developed world, a society that is culturally detailed, and a scifi background that abides by set rules. On the other hand, the characters are a little underdeveloped, the story lacking direction and ultimately coming to a slightly disappointing conclusion. Ultimately, though, Tankborn‘s strengths outweigh its shortcomings, and I know that I’ll be on the lookout for more books by Karen Sandler in the future.
On the distant world of Loka, lightyears away from Earth, humanity has changed. Separated into distinct, non-transmutable castes, Lokans run the spectrum from trueborn humans of untainted DNA and significant wealth to lowborn humans living in shanties and working menial jobs. At the very bottom of the hierarchy of power are the GENs – tankborns with human and animal DNA, as well as some machine integration, noted by a telltale tattoo on their right cheek. Every GEN is also enhanced with a special skill set (a “sket”), that will determine where they will work once they come of assignment age.
Kayla and her best friend Mishalla are both GENs from the same lowlying sector, Chadi. The slightly elder Mishalla is assigned to be a nurturer in a district thousands of kilometers away, and shortly after Kayla is assigned to be a private elderly caretaker for a wealthy trueborn family – and though the girls believe that they might never see each other again, their destinies are inextricably linked. While Mishalla is heartbroken as night after night her charges are taken away by lowborn nurturers, Kayla learns that her own charge, Zul Manel, has secrets from his past and plans for the future that will rock the very foundations of society. With the unexpected help of a trueborn human, Zul’s grandson Devak, and a lowborn human named Eoghan, Kayla and Mishalla will change everything.
I’m of two minds when it comes to Tankborn. The most important thing to say is: I absolutely head-over-heels LOVE the world that Ms. Sandler has created. Lee and Low books is a publisher dedicated to diversity and publishing books that feature or are by people of color, and Tankborn lives up to that mission with its fascinating, imaginative, and wonderfully diverse world. The society on Loka is stratified into different castes, with trueborns ranked high with their dark skin and diamond bali earrings, and lowborns with their paler skin and lower grade balis denoting status. GENs, not even considered human, are naught more than slaves, utterly deprived of basic rights and freedoms. Even more, the GEN belief system is a religion that glorifies in an ultimate, infinite being that has created trueborns and lowborns, and the GENs to serve them. And the coolest thing about this rigid social strata? None of it feels forced or overt – there is subtlety in Ms. Sandler’s writing, which is incredibly refreshing and appreciated, especially in a subgenre (YA SciFi Dystopia) that is chock-full of sledgehammer-technique message-making. There is an utter convincingness to this world order and cultural system that is both familiar, in those glimpses taken from aspects of human history, and alien.
In the same vein, the technological aspects of the world are believable (within the realm of science fiction, of course) with limitations, explanations, and technology that makes sense. The concept of GENs with their “annexed” and “bare” brains – where their machine integration allows the annexed portions to be programmed, and their biological portions to behave as a regular human brain would – is fascinating. The GEN tattoos that allow for the interfacing of technology to biology is an interesting conceit, and though the human-machine is a science fiction standby, Tankborn does so much to distinguish itself from the tired Cyborg routine by virtue of its complex social world.
I did mention that I am of two minds when it comes to Tanborn, though, all praises said. While I was completely won over by the intricate details and flawless worldbuilding, I felt underwhelmed by the actual plot and characters. The overarching story is meant to follow dual protagonists Kayla and Mishalla, but in practice the story is far more lopsided, as Kayla is undoubtedly our primary protagonist, with Mishalla’s story is interspliced every four or five chapters. As characters, Kayla is our clumsy heroine with physical strength as her sket and some emotional strength to match. Mishalla is similarly good-hearted and generally amiable. The thing is though, both characters lack bite. They are empathetic and we can feel for them as they struggle against a world in which they are controlled and mistreated, but there’s nothing particularly interesting or distinctive about either character. The story, too, is muted and lethargic, with the main conflict focused on the mysterious disappearing children, and a group of people that have approached Kayla and Mishalla (as well as other GENs) and have appropriated some of their programming and given them tech to hide and to pass on. Much of the novel is actually focused on Kayla as she struggles in her new role as Zul’s caregiver, and her burgeoning relationship with Devak, both of whom figure into the much larger plot. There are some revelations that happen in the last act of the novel, lackluster and somewhat trite.
Overall, Tankborn has a lot going for it – a beautifully developed world, a society that is culturally detailed, and a scifi background that abides by set rules. On the other hand, the characters are a little underdeveloped, the story lacking direction and ultimately coming to a slightly disappointing conclusion. Ultimately, though, Tankborn‘s strengths outweigh its shortcomings, and I know that I’ll be on the lookout for more books by Karen Sandler in the future.
October 5, 2012
Kayla è una NGM, una non umana geneticamente modificata: concepita artificialmente in una capsula, presenta parte di DNA di origine animale. Tale DNA è in grado di dare ai soggetti che lo posseggono particolari caratteristiche: nel caso di Kayla, un'enorme forza nelle braccia. A questo punto probabilmente starete pensando che quindi Kayla sia una specie di super eroina. Niente di più sbagliato. Gli NGM del pianeta Loka sono infatti trattati in tutto e per tutto come schiavi. Privi della libertà, a quindici anni vengono sottoposti all'Investitura e viene fornito loro un compito che dovranno svolgere per il resto della loro (breve) vita. Mancano pochissimi giorni all'Investitura di Kaya e la ragazza è in subbuglio: non vuole andare a vivere lontano dalla sua madre di allevamento e dal suo fratello acquisito, Jal, ma d'altra parte quello è il destino di ogni NGM, ciò che l'Infinito ha previsto per loro. Un giorno, mentre è al fiume con il fratello, viene avvicinata da un gruppo di aristocratici. Uno di loro, Livot, comincia a tirare sassi all'indirizzo di Jal, schernendolo: Kayla interviene facendo uso della sua grande forza per portare via di peso il fratello. Ma non è questo a salvarli. Un ragazzo, un Puro, si mette in mezzo, allontanando gli altri. Ma è proibito rivolgere la parola ai Puri, e del tutto vietato toccarli, se non si vuole che la propria pelle si avvizzisca. Kayla scambia due parole di circostanza con il ragazzo, Devak, per poi fuggire a casa. Qualcosa di lui le è però entrato nel cuore e la ragazza non riesce a non pensarci. Ma arriva il giorno dell'Investitura e Kayla riceve la sua assegnazione: non sa che, in realtà, a partire da quel giorno la sua vita, e quella di molte altre persone, cambieranno per sempre.
Se state leggendo o avete intenzione di leggere Kayla 6982 vi dico subito una cosa: non fatevi scoraggiare dal primo centinaio di pagine. L'autrice infatti ci catapulta di punto in bianco nel mondo di Loka senza spiegarci nulla, riempiendoci la testa di strani nomi di animali, tecnologie e classi sociali. Una sensazione di confusione permea la parte iniziale del libro e io stessa più volte mi sono fermata, chiedendomi di che cavolo si stesse parlando o cercando di raccapezzarmi tra i vari ceti e la loro organizzazione piramidale. Piano piano però le cose ci vengono spiegate e la storia diviene più comprensibile, e da lì in poi per me è stato amore. In Kayla 6982 il mondo fantascientifico non è una mera cornice utilizzata dall'autrice per fare da sfondo a una qualche love story di dubbia insorgenza bensì è il vero protagonista. La società (che ricorda molto la tipica società distopica) che governa Svarga è crudele e corrotta. Gli NGM vengono chiamati bestie, gli Impuri vengono costretti a continuare a pagare un debito che in realtà hanno estinto da anni, i Demis sono carichi di rabbia per il loro stato intermedio e maltrattano chiunque gli capiti sotto tiro mentre i Puri, al vertice della società, ignorano bellamente gli altri e non perdono occasione per schernire e denigrare NGM e Impuri, facendo sfoggio continuo della loro ricchezza e guardando tutti dall'alto in basso. Ciò che soprattutto mi ha colpito della società di cui fa parte Kayla è la sua verosimiglianza, il suo apparire come un futuro assolutamente possibile della nostra: del resto gli abitanti di Loka sono terrestri fuggiti dal pianeta prossimo al collasso per cui hanno decisamente molto in comune con noi. Più volte mi sono sentita in colpa e dispiaciuta per come Kayla veniva trattata, per non parlare di quello che si scopre nella parte finale del romanzo, che mi ha davvero fatto arrabbiare e odiare alcuni dei personaggi coinvolti.
Ho inoltre molto apprezzato l'idea dell'autrice di creare una flora e una fauna tipiche del pianeta, solo in parte simili a quelle della Terra. Lo stesso dicasi per le invenzioni tecnologiche, molto originali: in particolar modo mi è piaciuta moltissimo l'idea della presenza di un tatuaggio sulla guancia degli NGM tramite cui controllarli, immettere o rimuovere dati con l'uso dei data pod. Una trovata intrigante e ben riuscita, davvero.
Un'altra cosa che mi ha colpito molto di questo romanzo è il continuo riferimento a temi di discussione spinosi e attuali: quali sono le frontiere dell'ingegneria genetica? Cosa rende qualcuno non umano? Basta il suo DNA differente, o in realtà l'umanità è un concetto molto più profondo, non relegabile a una manciata di nucleotidi? E la religione è solo un'invenzione dell'uomo per sedare gli animi? Davvero non c'è nulla in cui credere? Questi sono alcuni degli spunti di riflessione che questo romanzo porta alla luce, temi su sui anche ora, mentre scrivo queste righe, sto riflettendo. Mi piace quando i libri danno da pensare, da riflettere sul contemporaneo senza essere pesanti o noiosi. E questo è proprio il caso di Kayla 6982.
In definitiva, un libro sicuramente consigliato agli amanti del genere. Non indicato per coloro alla ricerca unicamente di una storia d'amore. Non vedo l'ora di poter leggere il prossimo volume, Awakening.
Se state leggendo o avete intenzione di leggere Kayla 6982 vi dico subito una cosa: non fatevi scoraggiare dal primo centinaio di pagine. L'autrice infatti ci catapulta di punto in bianco nel mondo di Loka senza spiegarci nulla, riempiendoci la testa di strani nomi di animali, tecnologie e classi sociali. Una sensazione di confusione permea la parte iniziale del libro e io stessa più volte mi sono fermata, chiedendomi di che cavolo si stesse parlando o cercando di raccapezzarmi tra i vari ceti e la loro organizzazione piramidale. Piano piano però le cose ci vengono spiegate e la storia diviene più comprensibile, e da lì in poi per me è stato amore. In Kayla 6982 il mondo fantascientifico non è una mera cornice utilizzata dall'autrice per fare da sfondo a una qualche love story di dubbia insorgenza bensì è il vero protagonista. La società (che ricorda molto la tipica società distopica) che governa Svarga è crudele e corrotta. Gli NGM vengono chiamati bestie, gli Impuri vengono costretti a continuare a pagare un debito che in realtà hanno estinto da anni, i Demis sono carichi di rabbia per il loro stato intermedio e maltrattano chiunque gli capiti sotto tiro mentre i Puri, al vertice della società, ignorano bellamente gli altri e non perdono occasione per schernire e denigrare NGM e Impuri, facendo sfoggio continuo della loro ricchezza e guardando tutti dall'alto in basso. Ciò che soprattutto mi ha colpito della società di cui fa parte Kayla è la sua verosimiglianza, il suo apparire come un futuro assolutamente possibile della nostra: del resto gli abitanti di Loka sono terrestri fuggiti dal pianeta prossimo al collasso per cui hanno decisamente molto in comune con noi. Più volte mi sono sentita in colpa e dispiaciuta per come Kayla veniva trattata, per non parlare di quello che si scopre nella parte finale del romanzo, che mi ha davvero fatto arrabbiare e odiare alcuni dei personaggi coinvolti.
Ho inoltre molto apprezzato l'idea dell'autrice di creare una flora e una fauna tipiche del pianeta, solo in parte simili a quelle della Terra. Lo stesso dicasi per le invenzioni tecnologiche, molto originali: in particolar modo mi è piaciuta moltissimo l'idea della presenza di un tatuaggio sulla guancia degli NGM tramite cui controllarli, immettere o rimuovere dati con l'uso dei data pod. Una trovata intrigante e ben riuscita, davvero.
Un'altra cosa che mi ha colpito molto di questo romanzo è il continuo riferimento a temi di discussione spinosi e attuali: quali sono le frontiere dell'ingegneria genetica? Cosa rende qualcuno non umano? Basta il suo DNA differente, o in realtà l'umanità è un concetto molto più profondo, non relegabile a una manciata di nucleotidi? E la religione è solo un'invenzione dell'uomo per sedare gli animi? Davvero non c'è nulla in cui credere? Questi sono alcuni degli spunti di riflessione che questo romanzo porta alla luce, temi su sui anche ora, mentre scrivo queste righe, sto riflettendo. Mi piace quando i libri danno da pensare, da riflettere sul contemporaneo senza essere pesanti o noiosi. E questo è proprio il caso di Kayla 6982.
In definitiva, un libro sicuramente consigliato agli amanti del genere. Non indicato per coloro alla ricerca unicamente di una storia d'amore. Non vedo l'ora di poter leggere il prossimo volume, Awakening.
August 22, 2011
I received this book as a galley from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Kayla is a GEN, a Genetically Engineered Non-Human, born into a life of servitude and a member of the lowest rung of society. Despite her life's hardships, she loves the people she has come to know as her family and is not looking forward to her official assignment at the age of 15. When she receives a mysterious package that she must deliver and is then assigned to serve a high ranking family, her ideas about her place in life and who she is start to unravel. Her best friend Mishalla sees children disappearing and doesn't know why. With the help of her master's great-grandson, Kayla races to discover the truth behind who she is and what might be happening to the children.
This story was very involved and quite gripping. It takes place in the far future on a planet that was inhabited after earth's resources were depleted. Society is highly structured and who you are and how you were born mean everything. People's skin color, clothing and even technology all tell you where they belong and how they rank. My first observation was that it sounded very much like the caste system in India. In fact, after reading the afterward, it turns out that the author was inspired in part by the stories that an Indian friend told her. The story keeps you on the edge of your seat, as Kayla races, hides and dodges certain destruction to try to discover why children are disappearing and what that has to do with her own origins. This was a book that kept me up late because I couldn't put it down.
As a tool in the classroom, I think that it works well in bringing forward discussions about our own societal hierarchy and how this kind of prejudice, regarding where you come from or your skin tone, has existed and still does. The fact that it is set on a different planet removes it from the context of our own history and brings it somewhere neutral so that it is free to be discussed without the burden of our own history and prejudices. The conversation can then be brought back and compared to similar situations in our own time, like slavery or the feudal system.
My own big issue with this book, and the reason I cannot give it 4 stars, is the way it introduces new language. The story moves very well, but it almost tries too hard to be sci-fi, and that holds it back. It is one thing to introduce a new planet and a few new words, but when you have 2 or 3 created words in a sentence and several on each page, it becomes distracting and confusing. All of my favorite sci-fi books have included words that belong only to that world, but they are presented in such a way that it gives context and makes it easy to assimilate into your own reading vocabulary. There were several instances where new words are thrown at you so often that it takes away from the story. This type of writing can be off-putting to people who don't think that they like reading sci-fi, which is a shame. (I believe that more people should be reading sci-fi, but that's just me.) I only mention it because I felt it took away from a very good story.
Despite that small observation, this was a good, thought provoking book.
Kayla is a GEN, a Genetically Engineered Non-Human, born into a life of servitude and a member of the lowest rung of society. Despite her life's hardships, she loves the people she has come to know as her family and is not looking forward to her official assignment at the age of 15. When she receives a mysterious package that she must deliver and is then assigned to serve a high ranking family, her ideas about her place in life and who she is start to unravel. Her best friend Mishalla sees children disappearing and doesn't know why. With the help of her master's great-grandson, Kayla races to discover the truth behind who she is and what might be happening to the children.
This story was very involved and quite gripping. It takes place in the far future on a planet that was inhabited after earth's resources were depleted. Society is highly structured and who you are and how you were born mean everything. People's skin color, clothing and even technology all tell you where they belong and how they rank. My first observation was that it sounded very much like the caste system in India. In fact, after reading the afterward, it turns out that the author was inspired in part by the stories that an Indian friend told her. The story keeps you on the edge of your seat, as Kayla races, hides and dodges certain destruction to try to discover why children are disappearing and what that has to do with her own origins. This was a book that kept me up late because I couldn't put it down.
As a tool in the classroom, I think that it works well in bringing forward discussions about our own societal hierarchy and how this kind of prejudice, regarding where you come from or your skin tone, has existed and still does. The fact that it is set on a different planet removes it from the context of our own history and brings it somewhere neutral so that it is free to be discussed without the burden of our own history and prejudices. The conversation can then be brought back and compared to similar situations in our own time, like slavery or the feudal system.
My own big issue with this book, and the reason I cannot give it 4 stars, is the way it introduces new language. The story moves very well, but it almost tries too hard to be sci-fi, and that holds it back. It is one thing to introduce a new planet and a few new words, but when you have 2 or 3 created words in a sentence and several on each page, it becomes distracting and confusing. All of my favorite sci-fi books have included words that belong only to that world, but they are presented in such a way that it gives context and makes it easy to assimilate into your own reading vocabulary. There were several instances where new words are thrown at you so often that it takes away from the story. This type of writing can be off-putting to people who don't think that they like reading sci-fi, which is a shame. (I believe that more people should be reading sci-fi, but that's just me.) I only mention it because I felt it took away from a very good story.
Despite that small observation, this was a good, thought provoking book.
August 26, 2011
Tankborn is a reference to how GENs (Genetically Engineered Non-natals) are created, rather than nurtured in a womb, they are in a tank. Because of this they are considered non-Human…even though they are mostly created with human DNA and maybe a bit of animal DNA to enhance physical attributes they would need on the future job assignment they are being created for. Because of their non-human status they are the “untouchables” of this society, both literally and figuratively.
Kayla and Mishalla are best friends. They grew up together in the same GEN sector, and are the same age. Mishalla has already received her assignment as a “nurturer” to young children in what is an emergency foster home until family can be found to care for the child.
Kayla received her assignment as the caregiver of an high status elderly man, Zul, living with his grandson and family. While caring for Zul, Kayla’s eyes are opened to the reality of tankborns and the knowledge shakes her to the very core of her existence.
Tankborn was an incredibly thought provoking read. It took me a little while to get into it because the story starts out using terminology created for the world of the book, and that didn’t necessarily provide a definition for me. One of my all-time favorite authors does this all the time and it just something I, personally, have to fight through.
While it is quite clear that the author wanted to explore the chaste system, this story could really be a metaphor for any “us vs. them” mentality…be it religion, gay rights, politics, you name it, and there are direct correlations within “Tankborn”. It also carried a message of hope.
“Even without the white diamond glitter from the bali in his right ear, Kayla would have known this one was high-status. His dark hair was straight and glossy, not wild and kinked like Kayla’s or tight curls like Jal’s. His skin was the perfect color, a right medium bown. Not near black like Jal’s, nor the pale mud color of her own skin, but a warm shade in between. The color of status.”
Another thing I appreciated about this book was that the higher chaste, “true born”, people were people of color. Actually the whole book is people of color…but found it interesting that those with the mid-range color were more desirable, or higher status, rather than those at the end of spectrum. Leaving lots of room for interpretation. Also, the model on the book cover is also a beautiful girl of color.
I really enjoyed “Tankborn”. The author did a beautiful job weaving together a story, then did a spectacular job of destroying everything Kayla believed in. It’s one of those books readers will still be thinking about days after they have finished it. I know I am!
Kayla and Mishalla are best friends. They grew up together in the same GEN sector, and are the same age. Mishalla has already received her assignment as a “nurturer” to young children in what is an emergency foster home until family can be found to care for the child.
Kayla received her assignment as the caregiver of an high status elderly man, Zul, living with his grandson and family. While caring for Zul, Kayla’s eyes are opened to the reality of tankborns and the knowledge shakes her to the very core of her existence.
Tankborn was an incredibly thought provoking read. It took me a little while to get into it because the story starts out using terminology created for the world of the book, and that didn’t necessarily provide a definition for me. One of my all-time favorite authors does this all the time and it just something I, personally, have to fight through.
While it is quite clear that the author wanted to explore the chaste system, this story could really be a metaphor for any “us vs. them” mentality…be it religion, gay rights, politics, you name it, and there are direct correlations within “Tankborn”. It also carried a message of hope.
“Even without the white diamond glitter from the bali in his right ear, Kayla would have known this one was high-status. His dark hair was straight and glossy, not wild and kinked like Kayla’s or tight curls like Jal’s. His skin was the perfect color, a right medium bown. Not near black like Jal’s, nor the pale mud color of her own skin, but a warm shade in between. The color of status.”
Another thing I appreciated about this book was that the higher chaste, “true born”, people were people of color. Actually the whole book is people of color…but found it interesting that those with the mid-range color were more desirable, or higher status, rather than those at the end of spectrum. Leaving lots of room for interpretation. Also, the model on the book cover is also a beautiful girl of color.
I really enjoyed “Tankborn”. The author did a beautiful job weaving together a story, then did a spectacular job of destroying everything Kayla believed in. It’s one of those books readers will still be thinking about days after they have finished it. I know I am!
January 16, 2012
It's been a while since I've picked up a book that is mainly science fiction and enjoyed it so much. Karen Sandler introduces us to Loka, a planet that the people of Earth colonize in the future due to Earth's climate crumbling down, and in the process introduces us to a whole new vocabulary. Names of plants, animals, inanimate objects, all strange names for strange things. It is truly a fascinating new world. Fans of dystopia and a little known movie called "Avatar" will enjoy this.
Tankborn is told from two different points of view, Kayla and Mishalla's. Kayla and Mishalla are childhood friends and really see each other more like sisters, nurture sisters, because they are "tankborn" or born from a tank and not a mother, or as more commonly referred to in the book, they are GENs (Genetically Engineered Non-Humans). GENs are human in every aspect of the word, except that they are not born from an actual mother, they have an extra annexed brain to which you can upload information to and download information from, and carry an elaborate tattoo on their cheek which serves as the interface with which this annexed brain can be accessed.
GENs are raised by "nurture mothers" up to age 15, at which age the GEN is assigned as a slave somewhere where they spend the rest of their short lives serving others. You see, Loka's society is not like the one we know now on Earth. Society is divided into different social statuses, starting from the High-Status Trueborns which are the richer few and born the traditional way and all the way down to the GENs which are the lowest in the social ladder. Kayla and Mishalla are two GENs who are assigned to different assignments in two different regions of Loka. Assignments that couldn't be any more different from each other, but that in reality are linked together in a very unique way. Before they know it, Kayla and Mishalla are thrown into a web of deceit, hatred, and racism while in the process finding out that they are not just any ordinary GENs as they have been told their whole lives that they are.
Both Kayla and Mishalla find love during this travesty, in the most unlikely of places. I did feel that the relationships in this book were a bit rushed and out of the blue and at the end of the book felt that the story needed to continue. I am sincerely hoping that Karen Sandler is planning on continuing the story. A sequel? I definitely hope so. I gave this book 4 stars for the well told and unique story. I would have given it 5 if the romance between the characters had been better developed.
(Originally reviewed at JJiReads.blogspot.com)
Tankborn is told from two different points of view, Kayla and Mishalla's. Kayla and Mishalla are childhood friends and really see each other more like sisters, nurture sisters, because they are "tankborn" or born from a tank and not a mother, or as more commonly referred to in the book, they are GENs (Genetically Engineered Non-Humans). GENs are human in every aspect of the word, except that they are not born from an actual mother, they have an extra annexed brain to which you can upload information to and download information from, and carry an elaborate tattoo on their cheek which serves as the interface with which this annexed brain can be accessed.
GENs are raised by "nurture mothers" up to age 15, at which age the GEN is assigned as a slave somewhere where they spend the rest of their short lives serving others. You see, Loka's society is not like the one we know now on Earth. Society is divided into different social statuses, starting from the High-Status Trueborns which are the richer few and born the traditional way and all the way down to the GENs which are the lowest in the social ladder. Kayla and Mishalla are two GENs who are assigned to different assignments in two different regions of Loka. Assignments that couldn't be any more different from each other, but that in reality are linked together in a very unique way. Before they know it, Kayla and Mishalla are thrown into a web of deceit, hatred, and racism while in the process finding out that they are not just any ordinary GENs as they have been told their whole lives that they are.
Both Kayla and Mishalla find love during this travesty, in the most unlikely of places. I did feel that the relationships in this book were a bit rushed and out of the blue and at the end of the book felt that the story needed to continue. I am sincerely hoping that Karen Sandler is planning on continuing the story. A sequel? I definitely hope so. I gave this book 4 stars for the well told and unique story. I would have given it 5 if the romance between the characters had been better developed.
(Originally reviewed at JJiReads.blogspot.com)
September 28, 2012
Premetto che, contrariamente a quanto si legge in giro, questo NON è un distopico: è (merce molto più rara di questi tempi - oddio, non che i distopici come Suzanne Collins comanda siano proprio frequenti come margherite...) un ottimo romanzo di fantascienza per ragazzi, scritto con competenza, con una solida trama e la capacità di lasciare molte domande: non domande banali come "ma Tizio si metterà con Caia, o con Sempronia", nè "il pianeta Loka esploderà o la popolazione tirerà le cuoia per la fame o si salveranno tutti", ma domande che riguardano l'essere umano: cosa ci rende umani, se il DNA o quello che proviamo; cos'è la religione, e quale il suo ruolo (vero conforto o oppio dei popoli); se (e quali) dovrebbero essere i limiti della scienza.
Non sono domande facili, e non vengono fornite risposte, facili o meno: sebbene sia un romanzo meno complesso (e meno "filosofico") di Dentro Jenna le questioni vengono poste, e vengono mostrate le storture che nascono dal non mettersi queste domande, o dal cattivo uso che si fa dei mezzi messi a disposizione da scienza e tecnologia.
Mi è piaciuta molto anche l'ambientazione: l'arido pianeta Loka, colonizzato dopo la distruzione ecologica della Terra e abitato da una popolazione inquadrata in un rigido sistema di caste (sia questo, che gli abiti, che le varie sfumature di pelle mi hanno ricordato la società indiana - un piacevole cambiamento d'atmosfera, devo dire, rispetto alle ambientazioni WASP della stragrande maggioranza degli YA) viene reso con chiarezza, sia nell'ambiente che nella vita quotidiana; e i personaggi sono credibili nelle loro debolezze e nella forza che scoprono di avere, anche quando tutte le loro convinzioni di una vita vengono stravolte e si trovano davanti a una realtà nuova, magmatica, a cui devono adattarsi del tutto.
E mentre la possibilità dell'instant love è sempre dietro l'angolo, ho apprezzato anche come si sviluppano le storie d'amore di Mishalla e Kayla, le ragazze protagoniste; con delicatezza, con timore, e con la piena consapevolezza che il mondo stesso in cui vivono le rende impossibili: e che, forse, allora bisogna cambiare il mondo.
Non sono domande facili, e non vengono fornite risposte, facili o meno: sebbene sia un romanzo meno complesso (e meno "filosofico") di Dentro Jenna le questioni vengono poste, e vengono mostrate le storture che nascono dal non mettersi queste domande, o dal cattivo uso che si fa dei mezzi messi a disposizione da scienza e tecnologia.
Mi è piaciuta molto anche l'ambientazione: l'arido pianeta Loka, colonizzato dopo la distruzione ecologica della Terra e abitato da una popolazione inquadrata in un rigido sistema di caste (sia questo, che gli abiti, che le varie sfumature di pelle mi hanno ricordato la società indiana - un piacevole cambiamento d'atmosfera, devo dire, rispetto alle ambientazioni WASP della stragrande maggioranza degli YA) viene reso con chiarezza, sia nell'ambiente che nella vita quotidiana; e i personaggi sono credibili nelle loro debolezze e nella forza che scoprono di avere, anche quando tutte le loro convinzioni di una vita vengono stravolte e si trovano davanti a una realtà nuova, magmatica, a cui devono adattarsi del tutto.
E mentre la possibilità dell'instant love è sempre dietro l'angolo, ho apprezzato anche come si sviluppano le storie d'amore di Mishalla e Kayla, le ragazze protagoniste; con delicatezza, con timore, e con la piena consapevolezza che il mondo stesso in cui vivono le rende impossibili: e che, forse, allora bisogna cambiare il mondo.
September 14, 2011
Tankborn was definitely another reminder to me not to judge books by their covers, which I will undoubtedly continue to do ad infinitum. Still, I know I shouldn't. The only reason I requested this on NetGalley was because of the golden word dystopia in the description. If it says dystopia, I will read it. So yeah, the cover's not the best (and, yet again, does not seem to depict one of the main characters), but don't let that stop you.
The characters and the story both intrigued me right off. It took a few chapters for me to get completely absorbed, because you're dropped into the middle of this completely unfamiliar landscape and have to get used to how things work there. Once I did, though, I could barely put the book down, except for having to work and sleep and feed the cat and all of that.
My one complaint, and it's pretty mild, is that I would really like to know more about why they left Earth. What happened there? There really wasn't too much said about that and I can only hope that there will be a sequel that might delve into some of that, and tell more of Kayla's future.
The lessons this book conveys about racism and religion are really well done, not so much lecturing as raising an ethical point and getting you to really think about the philosophical and theological leaps needed to support certain ways of being. This might make an excellent book club read for that very reason.
If you love dystopias, you will not want to miss Tankborn.
The characters and the story both intrigued me right off. It took a few chapters for me to get completely absorbed, because you're dropped into the middle of this completely unfamiliar landscape and have to get used to how things work there. Once I did, though, I could barely put the book down, except for having to work and sleep and feed the cat and all of that.
My one complaint, and it's pretty mild, is that I would really like to know more about why they left Earth. What happened there? There really wasn't too much said about that and I can only hope that there will be a sequel that might delve into some of that, and tell more of Kayla's future.
The lessons this book conveys about racism and religion are really well done, not so much lecturing as raising an ethical point and getting you to really think about the philosophical and theological leaps needed to support certain ways of being. This might make an excellent book club read for that very reason.
If you love dystopias, you will not want to miss Tankborn.
August 27, 2011
I'm really getting into dystopia types of books and really enjoyed reading this one. I liked the author's story of the future, DNA technology and the struggle to overcome matrix or appearance of what actually is reality.
However, I will say that it was not as an easy read as Delirium and XVI and a few others I have read. The beginning started really slow for me, and I almost lost interest. I understand the author was trying to describe the setting, but I found it really unnecessary (especially in describing all the animals). There were too many uniquely spelled words and new words, and yes I understand we're talking about the future, that it took a while for it to all process in my mind.
But, once I got more into the story line, I found it more enjoyable to read and was eager to finish it. The changing between the three characters frustrated me because it would stop at just the most suspenseful part, but I realized that even though Kayla is the main character, Mishella and even Devak's perspectives were crutial to their individual roles in the story.
Although I kind of guessed the ending early on, the author did throw in a couple of surprises and twists that kept me on my toes. The ending broke my heart, but I think it's a good way to end the story. Any other alternative wouldn't have the same effect.
However, I will say that it was not as an easy read as Delirium and XVI and a few others I have read. The beginning started really slow for me, and I almost lost interest. I understand the author was trying to describe the setting, but I found it really unnecessary (especially in describing all the animals). There were too many uniquely spelled words and new words, and yes I understand we're talking about the future, that it took a while for it to all process in my mind.
But, once I got more into the story line, I found it more enjoyable to read and was eager to finish it. The changing between the three characters frustrated me because it would stop at just the most suspenseful part, but I realized that even though Kayla is the main character, Mishella and even Devak's perspectives were crutial to their individual roles in the story.
Although I kind of guessed the ending early on, the author did throw in a couple of surprises and twists that kept me on my toes. The ending broke my heart, but I think it's a good way to end the story. Any other alternative wouldn't have the same effect.
August 21, 2011
When earth became uninhabitable, the rich decided to pack up and head into space. Realizing they needed laborers to build the ships and their new homes, they brought along indentured servants creating instant hierarchy and discord. To placate the lowborn, the rich created another race to serve, these were the the Tankborn (rather than natural born). These new people were enhanced with animal dna and programmed with special skills that could help them in their labors. Kayla is a tankborn and at the age of 16 she is assigned to help an old man with his basic needs, but things are not what they seem and Kayla finds herself in the middle of a quiet revolution that goes against everything she's been taught.
Tankborn has a good balance of explaining the science behind the world and character development. The class unrest and profiling felt very probable to me and everything was easy to follow. The story was full of twists and I never felt like I knew what was coming, so it kept me interested all the way through.
Tankborn has a good balance of explaining the science behind the world and character development. The class unrest and profiling felt very probable to me and everything was easy to follow. The story was full of twists and I never felt like I knew what was coming, so it kept me interested all the way through.
November 13, 2011
3.5 stars, but I'm giving it a half-star bonus on principle (like I did with For The Win). I would rather see more 3.5-star books with a diverse cast and well-thought-out SF worldbuilding than 3.5-star books filled with the same old stuff.
I think now that this world is built, she'll be able to unclench a bit and have more fun with characterization in future installments. The people felt stiff to me, the romance a bit rushed, the conversations a bit lifeless.
The world really carried this. I want to see more of the arachnid-based fauna, to say nothing of the landscapes outside the urban areas. There's a whole continent to explore -- I anticipate interesting things ahead.
Sandler is clearly smart, as the worldbuilding shows; I anticipate the human side of things will catch up fast, and we'll have a good, solid series on our hands.
I think now that this world is built, she'll be able to unclench a bit and have more fun with characterization in future installments. The people felt stiff to me, the romance a bit rushed, the conversations a bit lifeless.
The world really carried this. I want to see more of the arachnid-based fauna, to say nothing of the landscapes outside the urban areas. There's a whole continent to explore -- I anticipate interesting things ahead.
Sandler is clearly smart, as the worldbuilding shows; I anticipate the human side of things will catch up fast, and we'll have a good, solid series on our hands.
November 30, 2011
Initial thoughts: slow moving in the first part, but that's a good thing for this book. A lot of the book involves very important (and interesting and creative) world-building, so it needs a patient reader. It picks up quite a bit later on and throws in a lot of things I didn't see coming. I would say this is not a book for a casual SF reader, mostly because the world takes a lot of dedication to understand. You've got to really enjoy that aspect of SF to enjoy the book.
I thought the romances were a little clumsy but sweet.
Full review here: http://www.stackedbooks.org/2011/10/t...
I thought the romances were a little clumsy but sweet.
Full review here: http://www.stackedbooks.org/2011/10/t...
November 3, 2013
DNF - 40 pages in and we're worrying about cramps. The world building is inconsistent and too reliant on made up words to stand in for real words. It's derivative of much older science fiction but not in a good way. Kayla is not compelling or realistic enough a character to carry the story.
http://www.pussreboots.pair.com/blog/...
http://www.pussreboots.pair.com/blog/...
August 28, 2011
Excellent world created by Karen Sandler. Believable and interesting. The Eastern influences were very interesting and one of my favorite aspects of the book. Took a turn that I was NOT expecting and appreciated.
February 3, 2017
Very slow to get started, because there's a lot of world building to establish. And that world building is good, makes sense in context, and is fairly comprehensive. I just didn't really fall in love with the characters.
Want to read
November 13, 201513 November 2015: $1.99 on Kindle
May 20, 2022
Okay first, this rating isn't accurate. My real rating is 2.7. I wasn't quite fond of the book really. It was really, kind of, dry. Maybe a small stream of water. But not as interesting as it should have been. You see, it was about two girls. Kayla and Mishalla. There is a caste system on their planet. There are true borns, lowborns, and gens. Trueborns are the highest, and gens are the lowest. Gens are made for work. There were these two girls and they were sent to work. They both met two boys that were either trueborn or lowborns. And turns out that they like each other. But, apparently, gens aren't allowed to associate with newborns or lowborn. So, it's kinda illegal. And like all dystopias are, there is a secret hidden. That secret starts with babies stolen from a nursery that one of the girls works at. They need to be able to understand why. So, the two girls and the boys go and try to understand why they are stealing babies. Turns out, they aren't making enough gens, so they are stealing babies and transforming them into gens. If that's not scary enough, it turns out that Kayla and Mishalla are some of the victims of gen transformation. So, they are able to restore the babies and they are able to be with the boys. Happy ending! But still, it had a really long dry spot. From the beginning to the end middle, it was really dry. Towards the end, it started to get a little more interesting but still. I guess I recommend it to those who can be able to read dry dystopias?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2023
When reading the book "Tankborn" by Karen Sandler, this book has been found to be a part of the dystopian genre. This book is about a girl who is named Kayla, she is also the protagonist in this book, she has to take care of Zul Manel. However, her society is about GENs who are gestated inside of a tank and sent to work as slaves, until they reach the age of 15, when they are 15 they have been assigned to take care of other tank babies. Adding on, when Kayla is assigned, she is assigned to a patriarch tureborn family, and she has ended up finding secrets and surprises about the family. She has loved the people that have come into her life as a family. I think this book is well written because instead of a normal text word in pages, it looks like a computer typed base, which I think is really cool. To add on, this book was alright, it didn't make sense in the beginning because it just said tank born babies out of nowhere, which was a way that it made it confusing. Then, I didn't expect it to be this way because when Kayla had been assigned to a family, and she had to take care of something, it made me think why would she take care of someone when she is already in a family? I would recommend this book even though there are a few confusment, it does give a good story its name
September 17, 2011
Tankborn by Karen Sandler tells the story of fifteen year old Kayla and her best friend Mishalla. Kayla is waiting to be given an Assignment, something all GENs (Genetically Engineered Non-humans) receive when they turn fifteen. And then these GENs are sent away from their families, sometimes so far away they can never return, in order to complete these jobs. And, since GENs aren't allowed to use any form of communication except word of mouth, they usually never get the chance to speak to their families or friends again. Mishalla has already been assigned as a Nurturer in a far off sector of Loka. But that's not true. Mishalla was assigned as a Nurturer, but she's a lot closer than Kayla believes. Both Kayla and Mishalla begin to realize that something is not right in their society, and it's not just the injustice towards GENs. Something much more sinister is going on and their worlds will be turned upside down as they come together to figure it out.
Sandler has created a rich, realistically complex fantasy world with Tankborn. The characters are deeply ingrained in their world, they were raised there and don't rush to explain to the reader the complexities of it. At first their world, their society, seems strange and confusing. I wondered about everything. What words meant, what objects were, what the animals they describe would look like. It was like being a child and having to re-learn everything. But then it started coming to me. Once I started to see the complexity in Sandler's world, I couldn't put it down. There are different kinds of people, vastly different social classes, complete religions. And then Sandler takes everything you've learned and turns it's completely upside down. Tankborn is a riveting young adult novel that will keep you reading long into the night just to find out what happens next.
The point of view changes from time to time throughout the book. It doesn't change too often, and Sandler gives you plenty of time to really get to know the characters. And then usually switches off just before something big is going to happen, leaving you thinking you want to rush through the next chapter to get back to where the action is. But then she'll do the same thing again and you'll be so caught up in the story you won't want to switch back.
Some of the characters, for me at least, seemed to take longer to get to know. I enjoyed reading from Devak's point of view right away, where as it took me a while to warm up to Mishalla. But I can honestly say I loved Eoghan from the first time he showed up. He was just so sweet. Following Mishalla around like a puppy, helping her with her nurture children. I fell in love.
Then, of course, there's Devak and Kayla. Their story is a little trickier. They both suffer from the same problem. They both believe what society has told them about one another. Devak is a stuck up, mean jerk because he's a trueborn. It's how he was created, so it must be true. Kayla is just a no class GEN. Not even worth taking a second glance at. Someone created her in a lab, so that obviously means she's less than a human. What these characters were missing was that they're the same, despite their difference in social status. And that's what brings them together so nicely. Neither is what they were raised, created, to be. They're just people, even if they were born in a lab. But it's not exactly Devak and Kayla's fault for believing these differences matter. It's how society raised them, how their world works. What matters is that they realize that society is wrong.
Their whole society and caste system is determined mostly by skin color. It plays a huge role in Tankborn. They saw each other as shades of colors, even the trueborns. They used it as a way of telling the different statuses apart. The way even the slightest shade off of high status trueborn color could put you in a lower status. But at the same time, skin color doesn't determine your status for sure. Money will always have the most effect on social status in our world and the same is true on Loka. As long as a trueborn had the money, it didn't matter what they looked like, although they were still looked down on for it. Even GENs, the lowest of the low, could see it was only money which kept these trueborns in power.
The whole time I was reading I just kept thinking "There is no way people can possibly be this inconsiderate of others. Just because someone's different doesn't give you the right to treat them that way. Like slaves! Just because they aren't as rich as you doesn't mean you can treat them like trash. Don't these people have any compassion?!" But sadly, greed and fear usually do cause people to do horrible things to one another. Including bigotry. The world of Tankborn really puts that into prospective.
Tankborn was suspenseful and kept me desperately trying to figure out the plot twist. The entire time I was reading I knew something big was coming, I could see the pieces of the puzzle, I just couldn't put them together no matter how hard I tried. I had guesses and assumptions, but no proof that I was right about any of them. But then, over the course of a few chapters near the end, it all started clicking. I am usually able to figure out where a story is going pretty quickly. Sometimes I can tell just from the synopsis, but with Tankborn it kept me guessing. Flipping through different what-if's in my head. I think that's what hooked me, what kept me reading much longer than I should have. I enjoyed being surprised by the great plot twists, having more pieces click into place as I read.
And the way Sandler leaves the ending open for a sequel leads me to believe we'll be seeing Kayla and Devak again in the future. And hopefully someday the citizens of Loka, all citizens, even GENs, will get their happy ending.
This review was originally published on Pretty In Fiction.
Sandler has created a rich, realistically complex fantasy world with Tankborn. The characters are deeply ingrained in their world, they were raised there and don't rush to explain to the reader the complexities of it. At first their world, their society, seems strange and confusing. I wondered about everything. What words meant, what objects were, what the animals they describe would look like. It was like being a child and having to re-learn everything. But then it started coming to me. Once I started to see the complexity in Sandler's world, I couldn't put it down. There are different kinds of people, vastly different social classes, complete religions. And then Sandler takes everything you've learned and turns it's completely upside down. Tankborn is a riveting young adult novel that will keep you reading long into the night just to find out what happens next.
The point of view changes from time to time throughout the book. It doesn't change too often, and Sandler gives you plenty of time to really get to know the characters. And then usually switches off just before something big is going to happen, leaving you thinking you want to rush through the next chapter to get back to where the action is. But then she'll do the same thing again and you'll be so caught up in the story you won't want to switch back.
Some of the characters, for me at least, seemed to take longer to get to know. I enjoyed reading from Devak's point of view right away, where as it took me a while to warm up to Mishalla. But I can honestly say I loved Eoghan from the first time he showed up. He was just so sweet. Following Mishalla around like a puppy, helping her with her nurture children. I fell in love.
Then, of course, there's Devak and Kayla. Their story is a little trickier. They both suffer from the same problem. They both believe what society has told them about one another. Devak is a stuck up, mean jerk because he's a trueborn. It's how he was created, so it must be true. Kayla is just a no class GEN. Not even worth taking a second glance at. Someone created her in a lab, so that obviously means she's less than a human. What these characters were missing was that they're the same, despite their difference in social status. And that's what brings them together so nicely. Neither is what they were raised, created, to be. They're just people, even if they were born in a lab. But it's not exactly Devak and Kayla's fault for believing these differences matter. It's how society raised them, how their world works. What matters is that they realize that society is wrong.
Their whole society and caste system is determined mostly by skin color. It plays a huge role in Tankborn. They saw each other as shades of colors, even the trueborns. They used it as a way of telling the different statuses apart. The way even the slightest shade off of high status trueborn color could put you in a lower status. But at the same time, skin color doesn't determine your status for sure. Money will always have the most effect on social status in our world and the same is true on Loka. As long as a trueborn had the money, it didn't matter what they looked like, although they were still looked down on for it. Even GENs, the lowest of the low, could see it was only money which kept these trueborns in power.
The whole time I was reading I just kept thinking "There is no way people can possibly be this inconsiderate of others. Just because someone's different doesn't give you the right to treat them that way. Like slaves! Just because they aren't as rich as you doesn't mean you can treat them like trash. Don't these people have any compassion?!" But sadly, greed and fear usually do cause people to do horrible things to one another. Including bigotry. The world of Tankborn really puts that into prospective.
Tankborn was suspenseful and kept me desperately trying to figure out the plot twist. The entire time I was reading I knew something big was coming, I could see the pieces of the puzzle, I just couldn't put them together no matter how hard I tried. I had guesses and assumptions, but no proof that I was right about any of them. But then, over the course of a few chapters near the end, it all started clicking. I am usually able to figure out where a story is going pretty quickly. Sometimes I can tell just from the synopsis, but with Tankborn it kept me guessing. Flipping through different what-if's in my head. I think that's what hooked me, what kept me reading much longer than I should have. I enjoyed being surprised by the great plot twists, having more pieces click into place as I read.
And the way Sandler leaves the ending open for a sequel leads me to believe we'll be seeing Kayla and Devak again in the future. And hopefully someday the citizens of Loka, all citizens, even GENs, will get their happy ending.
This review was originally published on Pretty In Fiction.
February 4, 2020
Tankborn is an amazing book about Mishalla and Kayla who are GEN's (Genetically Engineered Non-humans). The book changes between Kayla and Mishalla's point of view. Kayla is turning 16 in a few days and is about to get her assignment like all do GENs at the age of 16. Kayla learns that her assignment is to take care of a elderly trueborn by the name of Zul Manel, while taking care of Zul Kayla meets hist grandchild Devak. While Kayla is taking care of Zul her best friend Mishalla is taking care of lowborns. While Mishalla is taking care of the children some of them are being stolen in the middle of the night. Kayla and Mishalla both got a update that take both of them of the grid. Kayla and Mishalla want to figure out what is happening to the children and why the are disappearing, but to save them they will need to trust two humans Devak (trueborn) and Eoghan (lowborn). When trying save all the children they figure out that there being turned into Gens. Once they found the children they turned them back into lowborns. Kayla and Mishalla had the option to become lowborns, but only one of them could so Kayla sacraficed her freedom so Mishalla could become a lowborn. This book is amazing and is one of my favorite dystopian novel so far. I love how this book changes between Kayla and Mishalla's point of view.
February 24, 2020
This book was not that bad. I really like the story behind it where GENs ( Genetically Engineered Non-humans) become slaves to trueborn, which are like humans at the age of 15. But Kayla, the protagonist finds out secrets of how GENs were made what happen to her as well. There is also a love relationship in the book with her. She falls in love with Zul's grandson, Devak. While her friend Mishella finds stolen children that are going to drown in a river. The story of this book was good, but I just didn't understand the love relationship between Kayla and Devak. I didn't see much as a love story between them. But I did like how GENs are like robots. One of Kayla's friends got reset because she got caught escaping from her trueborn family she must serve, and Mishella also got also reset because she disrupted the kids from drowning. I also like that GENs aren't always made by trueborn, some were also trueborn like Kalya which I thought was a nice twist in the book. We also find out the Zul made the GENs and cause their slavery, which was also a good twist. This book had some good turn of events but it had many things I didn't like. To me, it wasn't good enough for me to read the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2011
So, firstly, a big thank you to NetGalley and Lee & Low Books for a copy of this book. This book was ah-mazing to read, I enjoyed it so much. It was right up my alley, with the sci-fi and the genetic engineering and people who are sort of like part-computer in a way … loved the story world, loved the story.
Tankborn takes place in the distant future. Earth is ruined, and humans have been living on a different planet for possibly hundreds of years now (I didn’t quite catch how far in the future this is, my bad. But it’s far). When humans were leaving Earth, the rich who can afford passage became high-status people, the people with special skills (ex. building, programming, etc) became demi-status people and the ones who cannot afford to leave Earth gave themselves to the rich to become their servants in exchange for passage, becoming the lowborns. Thus, on this new planet, there grew a very strict and rigid caste system.
Kayla is not high status, demi status or lowborn. She is a GEN — Genetically Engineered Non-Human. She is at the bottom of the pyramid, so to speak, and all trueborns treat GENs like dirt. GENs are tankborn non-humans, who are mixed with a little bit of animal DNA to give them a special skill (superhuman strength, in Kayla’s case), and are created specifically to be slaves. At fifteen, GENs are given an Assignment, the place they will work for the rest of their life. Kayla is Assigned to be a caretaker for 102 year old high status trueborn Zul Mandel. However, Zul has chosen Kayla to be near him for a greater reason than simply being his caretaker. There is a revolution happening, a conspiracy to unfold, and Kayla will be caught right in the middle of it all.
The world building is very well done and definitely the highlight of this novel. It is a completely fictional, but believable, culture that is created in this book. It is interesting that even though it’s very far in the future, it isn’t the type of sci-fi where there’s robots and lasers and spaceships everywhere. In some ways, the culture felt a bit archaic, what with the strict social hierarchy and all. And I don’t know why, but I kind of imagined their clothes was kind of traditional Indian-style, but that just be because of the clear Indian inspiration for the caste system in this book. Anyway, I liked how the culture and the story world was sort of antiquated but mixed with, obviously, futuristic stuff, like shock guns, and how GENs are kind of like computers — using a Datapod, one can upload and download information from a GEN’s annexed brain (as opposed to their bare brain, which, I gather, is their normal brain, the kind you and I have). The world is quite unique due to this mixture of the old and the new.
I wasn’t too crazy about the characters, but I didn’t dislike them either. I guess I kind of wanted more from them, but they never did anything that really made me love or hate them. I did enjoy their growth and development, as they (meaning everyone except Zul, haha) went from knowing not much and blindly accepting their world as is, to questioning everything down to the meaning of their existence. But anyway, the lack of characters that interested me didn’t matter too much to me because I do not feel this book was meant to be a character-driven story anyway; it’s more about the world and the plot, which more than made up for it to me.
The story was really fascinating to read. It is neither a fast or slow paced book, but instead, chugs along at a pleasant speed. You aren’t overwhelmed with too much information at once, which is quite an easy trap for authors to fall into when they build huge complex worlds and feel the need to explain everything and cram the world’s history into the first chapter. Tankborn mercifully doesn’t do that. I also loved the mystery elements in the book, the unfolding of a conspiracy, and it kept me turning the pages. While some parts of the story I kind of saw coming, some parts genuinely surprised me; I love it when I can’t see the twists coming in a story.
All in all, a wonderfully written story, one that I definitely you try if this sounds interesting to you. I think most people will enjoy this, and it’s honestly a bit sad to me that this book doesn’t have more hype surrounding it. I cannot wait for it to be released, personally!
(This review originally posted at http://skyink.net).
Tankborn takes place in the distant future. Earth is ruined, and humans have been living on a different planet for possibly hundreds of years now (I didn’t quite catch how far in the future this is, my bad. But it’s far). When humans were leaving Earth, the rich who can afford passage became high-status people, the people with special skills (ex. building, programming, etc) became demi-status people and the ones who cannot afford to leave Earth gave themselves to the rich to become their servants in exchange for passage, becoming the lowborns. Thus, on this new planet, there grew a very strict and rigid caste system.
Kayla is not high status, demi status or lowborn. She is a GEN — Genetically Engineered Non-Human. She is at the bottom of the pyramid, so to speak, and all trueborns treat GENs like dirt. GENs are tankborn non-humans, who are mixed with a little bit of animal DNA to give them a special skill (superhuman strength, in Kayla’s case), and are created specifically to be slaves. At fifteen, GENs are given an Assignment, the place they will work for the rest of their life. Kayla is Assigned to be a caretaker for 102 year old high status trueborn Zul Mandel. However, Zul has chosen Kayla to be near him for a greater reason than simply being his caretaker. There is a revolution happening, a conspiracy to unfold, and Kayla will be caught right in the middle of it all.
The world building is very well done and definitely the highlight of this novel. It is a completely fictional, but believable, culture that is created in this book. It is interesting that even though it’s very far in the future, it isn’t the type of sci-fi where there’s robots and lasers and spaceships everywhere. In some ways, the culture felt a bit archaic, what with the strict social hierarchy and all. And I don’t know why, but I kind of imagined their clothes was kind of traditional Indian-style, but that just be because of the clear Indian inspiration for the caste system in this book. Anyway, I liked how the culture and the story world was sort of antiquated but mixed with, obviously, futuristic stuff, like shock guns, and how GENs are kind of like computers — using a Datapod, one can upload and download information from a GEN’s annexed brain (as opposed to their bare brain, which, I gather, is their normal brain, the kind you and I have). The world is quite unique due to this mixture of the old and the new.
I wasn’t too crazy about the characters, but I didn’t dislike them either. I guess I kind of wanted more from them, but they never did anything that really made me love or hate them. I did enjoy their growth and development, as they (meaning everyone except Zul, haha) went from knowing not much and blindly accepting their world as is, to questioning everything down to the meaning of their existence. But anyway, the lack of characters that interested me didn’t matter too much to me because I do not feel this book was meant to be a character-driven story anyway; it’s more about the world and the plot, which more than made up for it to me.
The story was really fascinating to read. It is neither a fast or slow paced book, but instead, chugs along at a pleasant speed. You aren’t overwhelmed with too much information at once, which is quite an easy trap for authors to fall into when they build huge complex worlds and feel the need to explain everything and cram the world’s history into the first chapter. Tankborn mercifully doesn’t do that. I also loved the mystery elements in the book, the unfolding of a conspiracy, and it kept me turning the pages. While some parts of the story I kind of saw coming, some parts genuinely surprised me; I love it when I can’t see the twists coming in a story.
All in all, a wonderfully written story, one that I definitely you try if this sounds interesting to you. I think most people will enjoy this, and it’s honestly a bit sad to me that this book doesn’t have more hype surrounding it. I cannot wait for it to be released, personally!
(This review originally posted at http://skyink.net).
September 12, 2011
I usually stay away from anything science fiction, but since this one was labeled as dystopian too (and I love those), I thought I should give it a try. I am very glad I did, because Tankborn has become a top favorite!
Humans left the Earth and settle on Loka, an arid planet with two suns and almost no green except in the genetically grown preserves. They survived by building a caste system, that kept everyone in its place. In an attempt to make lowborns more agreeable to high-born rule, they created Genetically Engineered Non-Humans or GENs. Grown in tanks using human and animal DNA, they are built with specific skets (skills sets) and assigned jobs working for high borns at the age of fifth teen. They have a sub-neural circuit installed that permits the download and upload of information from their annexed brain through a dermal interface tattoo place on their left cheek. It’s like they have their own internal computer, and like any computer they can be realigned (reset). Even though there are rules against the mistreatment of GENs, they are still treated like scum.
I was a bit daunted at firs with all the jargon and big tech words, but as soon as I straightened it all out in my mind, I was immersed in the story. I found the whole world fascinating; filled with eight legged spider-like animals, micro-lev cars, wristlink communicators, holograms, and the GENs. And that is where the story starts, with a GEN girl.
Kayla 6982 of Chadi sector is a GEN with super strength in her arms and an even stronger will. She is a weird case because her GEN tattoo is on her right cheek. Close to her Assignment day she meets a highborn boy who defends her against some bullies. Bewildered by his nice treatment, she finds herself thinking about him all the time, something sacrilegious. Her Assignment turns out to be taking care of an old highborn called Zul who seems to know more about her origins and GENs like her, the ones whose tattoo is on the wrong side. Kayla will find herself falling for a boy who rules and religion dictate is out of her reach, immersed in an old conspiracy plot that can turn out to be another uprising. When she is presented with the opportunity, will she choose a new beginning for herself or will she stay and help others like her?
Devak is troubled by the sudden feelings he has for Kayla. Because even though he follows grandfather’s views, he still feels ashamed about being called a GEN lover. It’ll be some time before he realizes that GENs have feelings, have desires and dreams too. Will he have the courage to stand up for what he believes is right?
Mishalla is Kayla’s best friend. She’s a nurturer, set to care for orphan low born children. But when they begin taking the children in the middle of the night for relocation, Mishalla starts to think there’s something wrong going on. Add to that the mysterious lowborn at the market and the forbidden tech he gave to her. The only one she can trust is Eoghan, but he seems to have forgotten all about her. It will be up to her to save the children.
Karen Sandler has managed to create a unique world and filled it with even more unique characters that you can’t help but to cheer on page after page. Though the first few chapters got a bit tedious with necessary description and explanations, I found the story moved really well after that. I always like it when there is more than one character POV like in Tankborn, because when the narrator changes I’m always trying to read faster to know what happened. I was impressed how even being a YA book the plot explored issues of race, religion, and politics. The ending did break my heart but I liked that it left space for more of there is ever the opportunity. And I really hope so!
*I received this book via Netgalley from the publisher in exchange for my honest review*
Humans left the Earth and settle on Loka, an arid planet with two suns and almost no green except in the genetically grown preserves. They survived by building a caste system, that kept everyone in its place. In an attempt to make lowborns more agreeable to high-born rule, they created Genetically Engineered Non-Humans or GENs. Grown in tanks using human and animal DNA, they are built with specific skets (skills sets) and assigned jobs working for high borns at the age of fifth teen. They have a sub-neural circuit installed that permits the download and upload of information from their annexed brain through a dermal interface tattoo place on their left cheek. It’s like they have their own internal computer, and like any computer they can be realigned (reset). Even though there are rules against the mistreatment of GENs, they are still treated like scum.
I was a bit daunted at firs with all the jargon and big tech words, but as soon as I straightened it all out in my mind, I was immersed in the story. I found the whole world fascinating; filled with eight legged spider-like animals, micro-lev cars, wristlink communicators, holograms, and the GENs. And that is where the story starts, with a GEN girl.
Kayla 6982 of Chadi sector is a GEN with super strength in her arms and an even stronger will. She is a weird case because her GEN tattoo is on her right cheek. Close to her Assignment day she meets a highborn boy who defends her against some bullies. Bewildered by his nice treatment, she finds herself thinking about him all the time, something sacrilegious. Her Assignment turns out to be taking care of an old highborn called Zul who seems to know more about her origins and GENs like her, the ones whose tattoo is on the wrong side. Kayla will find herself falling for a boy who rules and religion dictate is out of her reach, immersed in an old conspiracy plot that can turn out to be another uprising. When she is presented with the opportunity, will she choose a new beginning for herself or will she stay and help others like her?
Devak is troubled by the sudden feelings he has for Kayla. Because even though he follows grandfather’s views, he still feels ashamed about being called a GEN lover. It’ll be some time before he realizes that GENs have feelings, have desires and dreams too. Will he have the courage to stand up for what he believes is right?
Mishalla is Kayla’s best friend. She’s a nurturer, set to care for orphan low born children. But when they begin taking the children in the middle of the night for relocation, Mishalla starts to think there’s something wrong going on. Add to that the mysterious lowborn at the market and the forbidden tech he gave to her. The only one she can trust is Eoghan, but he seems to have forgotten all about her. It will be up to her to save the children.
Karen Sandler has managed to create a unique world and filled it with even more unique characters that you can’t help but to cheer on page after page. Though the first few chapters got a bit tedious with necessary description and explanations, I found the story moved really well after that. I always like it when there is more than one character POV like in Tankborn, because when the narrator changes I’m always trying to read faster to know what happened. I was impressed how even being a YA book the plot explored issues of race, religion, and politics. The ending did break my heart but I liked that it left space for more of there is ever the opportunity. And I really hope so!
*I received this book via Netgalley from the publisher in exchange for my honest review*
October 11, 2012
Con Kayla6982 inauguriamo la lettura della trilogia YA (young adult) fantascientifica bio-distopica con cenni romance, di Karen Sandler, chiamata Tankborn.
La storia di Kayla inizia su Loka, un pianeta in cui gli umani sono emigrati 400 anni prima a seguito della distruzione ambientale della Terra. Su Loka, che ci viene descritta dall’autrice statunitense con grande precisione dando sfoggio di un’invidiabile immaginazione, la società è organizzata in fazioni, o meglio caste.
Gli NGM, ovvero gli “esseri” creati in laboratorio grazie alla combinazione di DNA umana e un’infinitesimale parte animale, sono trattati alla stregua di bestiame da allevamento. Questi vengono impiegati come schiavi degli umani, ovvero coloro nati da una madre e non in capsula, che a loro volta sono suddivisi in altre tre caste: gli Impuri, i Puri di ceto basso e i Puri. Questi si distinguono fra loro in base alle loro ricchezze, in prima analisi, ma anche dalla purezza della loro discendenza. A conti fatti, però, i soldi sono quello che fa girare la società su Loka e che fa dimenticare un colore di pelle più o meno scuro del previsto.
In questa società influenzata sotto tutti i punti di vista dalla biogenetica, conosciamo Kayla6982, una NGM di quindici anni ormai ad un soffio dalla sua Investitura. I Puri, che controllano ogni aspetto della vita dei NGM, decideranno quale sarà la giusta attitudine lavorativa, che generalmente prevede un taglio netto con il passato, e la “programmeranno” per svolgerlo fino alla sua morte.
Kayla, però, arriverà al giorno della sua Investitura con un misterioso upload e un pacchetto nascosto addosso, entrambi “regalo” di una misteriosa pre-investitura di cui non aveva mai sentito parlare. Cosa significa quel misterioso upload che le è stato caricato il giorno prima della sua Investitura ufficiale? Cosa è nascosto nel pacchettino che le è stato intimato di nascondere e portare con sé?
E quale collegamento c’è fra lei e la sua migliore amica, Mishalla, che dalla contea vicina sembra aver subìto lo stesso strano upload, facendola sparire dalla Rete attraverso la quale i Puri monitorano tutti gli NGM di Loki?
I bambini degli Impuri continuano a sparire e nessuno sembra interessato a capire perché; Kayla è alle prese con un lavoro che la porta dritta dritta fra le mura della dimora di un particolare Puro, Devak, conosciuto tempo prima e ormai fisso fra i suoi pensieri; Mishalla si vede strappare i bambini di cui si occupa in piena notte e non sa più che fine fanno, cercando poi l’aiuto dell’Impuro Ehogan… Quale sarà il collegamento fra queste due NGMs e la sommossa sotterranea che sembra prendere sempre più piede sul pianeta Loki?
Copertina originale
Kayla6982 è quello che può essere definito senza problemi un piccolo gioiello della narrativa Young Adult, una rarità assoluta in quanto ricco non solo di una bella ed avvincente trama, ma anche di valori, sentimenti e saggezza.
È un romanzo che, in realtà, si presenta come una favola moderna in grado di stimolare e affascinare le menti, insegnando loro a riflettere senza risultare prolisso o arrogante. È un storia carica di valori come l’amicizia, la tolleranza del diverso, il rispetto per gli altri, il coraggio, l’indipendenza, la fede, l’etica, la morale… Impossibile riuscire a elencare tutte le sfumature di questo libro, ogni volta è possibile trarre un nuovo spunto di riflessione, un nuovo modo di leggere questa magnifica ma triste metafora della società moderna attuale.
Kayla6892 è un romanzo che merita di essere letto e che, se fosse possibile, dovrebbe essere proposto come lettura collettiva in molte scuole proprio per la sua importanza formativa e la ricchezza di spunti di discussione molto educativi. La GiuntiY come sempre è riuscita nuovamente a colpire magistralmente nel segno.
La storia di Kayla inizia su Loka, un pianeta in cui gli umani sono emigrati 400 anni prima a seguito della distruzione ambientale della Terra. Su Loka, che ci viene descritta dall’autrice statunitense con grande precisione dando sfoggio di un’invidiabile immaginazione, la società è organizzata in fazioni, o meglio caste.
Gli NGM, ovvero gli “esseri” creati in laboratorio grazie alla combinazione di DNA umana e un’infinitesimale parte animale, sono trattati alla stregua di bestiame da allevamento. Questi vengono impiegati come schiavi degli umani, ovvero coloro nati da una madre e non in capsula, che a loro volta sono suddivisi in altre tre caste: gli Impuri, i Puri di ceto basso e i Puri. Questi si distinguono fra loro in base alle loro ricchezze, in prima analisi, ma anche dalla purezza della loro discendenza. A conti fatti, però, i soldi sono quello che fa girare la società su Loka e che fa dimenticare un colore di pelle più o meno scuro del previsto.
In questa società influenzata sotto tutti i punti di vista dalla biogenetica, conosciamo Kayla6982, una NGM di quindici anni ormai ad un soffio dalla sua Investitura. I Puri, che controllano ogni aspetto della vita dei NGM, decideranno quale sarà la giusta attitudine lavorativa, che generalmente prevede un taglio netto con il passato, e la “programmeranno” per svolgerlo fino alla sua morte.
Kayla, però, arriverà al giorno della sua Investitura con un misterioso upload e un pacchetto nascosto addosso, entrambi “regalo” di una misteriosa pre-investitura di cui non aveva mai sentito parlare. Cosa significa quel misterioso upload che le è stato caricato il giorno prima della sua Investitura ufficiale? Cosa è nascosto nel pacchettino che le è stato intimato di nascondere e portare con sé?
E quale collegamento c’è fra lei e la sua migliore amica, Mishalla, che dalla contea vicina sembra aver subìto lo stesso strano upload, facendola sparire dalla Rete attraverso la quale i Puri monitorano tutti gli NGM di Loki?
I bambini degli Impuri continuano a sparire e nessuno sembra interessato a capire perché; Kayla è alle prese con un lavoro che la porta dritta dritta fra le mura della dimora di un particolare Puro, Devak, conosciuto tempo prima e ormai fisso fra i suoi pensieri; Mishalla si vede strappare i bambini di cui si occupa in piena notte e non sa più che fine fanno, cercando poi l’aiuto dell’Impuro Ehogan… Quale sarà il collegamento fra queste due NGMs e la sommossa sotterranea che sembra prendere sempre più piede sul pianeta Loki?
Copertina originale
Kayla6982 è quello che può essere definito senza problemi un piccolo gioiello della narrativa Young Adult, una rarità assoluta in quanto ricco non solo di una bella ed avvincente trama, ma anche di valori, sentimenti e saggezza.
È un romanzo che, in realtà, si presenta come una favola moderna in grado di stimolare e affascinare le menti, insegnando loro a riflettere senza risultare prolisso o arrogante. È un storia carica di valori come l’amicizia, la tolleranza del diverso, il rispetto per gli altri, il coraggio, l’indipendenza, la fede, l’etica, la morale… Impossibile riuscire a elencare tutte le sfumature di questo libro, ogni volta è possibile trarre un nuovo spunto di riflessione, un nuovo modo di leggere questa magnifica ma triste metafora della società moderna attuale.
Kayla6892 è un romanzo che merita di essere letto e che, se fosse possibile, dovrebbe essere proposto come lettura collettiva in molte scuole proprio per la sua importanza formativa e la ricchezza di spunti di discussione molto educativi. La GiuntiY come sempre è riuscita nuovamente a colpire magistralmente nel segno.
November 15, 2011
At some point in the future, humans colonize the planet Loka. It is here on the continent of Svarga that different caste systems exist with True Humans at the top (gestated in the womb) while "Genetically Engineered Non-humans" exist to serve those above them. These GENS are born into tanks and fused with technology, a skill set (sket) and animal DNA.
As best friends Mishalla and Kayla embark on their separate assignments, new information comes to light to either destroy them or set them free.
Sandler's premise of a Genetically altered population of beings is an interesting one: What makes a human, human? Her story telling is creative and the plot moves along at a good pace.
While I enjoyed her story-telling, I felt like her themes and scientific explanations could have been further developed:
Of course, there are many topics to discuss in comparing our OWN society's distinction of class and color and stereotypes but to me, it felt like reading a history book than feeling it. Too many themes interwoven that I felt lost and had a hard time focusing on what the author was trying to convey.
Overall, somewhat entertaining; I think some details are missing and provide some holes to what could be more of a fulfilling story. It's a bit predictable. And while there were some gut-wrenching moments, I wanted to feel more for the GENs. The idea is unique and multiculturalism is great to see in a book, but I would have liked it flushed out further.
Personally, The House of the Scorpion By Nancy Farmer was a much more compelling read that also had genetic cloning and multiculturalism.
As best friends Mishalla and Kayla embark on their separate assignments, new information comes to light to either destroy them or set them free.
Sandler's premise of a Genetically altered population of beings is an interesting one: What makes a human, human? Her story telling is creative and the plot moves along at a good pace.
While I enjoyed her story-telling, I felt like her themes and scientific explanations could have been further developed:
Of course, there are many topics to discuss in comparing our OWN society's distinction of class and color and stereotypes but to me, it felt like reading a history book than feeling it. Too many themes interwoven that I felt lost and had a hard time focusing on what the author was trying to convey.
Overall, somewhat entertaining; I think some details are missing and provide some holes to what could be more of a fulfilling story. It's a bit predictable. And while there were some gut-wrenching moments, I wanted to feel more for the GENs. The idea is unique and multiculturalism is great to see in a book, but I would have liked it flushed out further.
Personally, The House of the Scorpion By Nancy Farmer was a much more compelling read that also had genetic cloning and multiculturalism.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews