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Riot Act
Punk rock meets 1984 in this story of a group of theater kids who take on a political regime, perfect for readers who love books by A.S. King and Marie Lu.
In an alternate 1991, the authoritarian US government keeps tabs on everybody and everything. It censors which books can be read, what music can be listened to, and which plays can be performed.
When her best friend is killed by the authorities and her theater teacher disappears without a trace, Gigi decides to organize her fellow Champaign High School thespians to put on a production of Henry VI. But at what cost?
In an alternate 1991, the authoritarian US government keeps tabs on everybody and everything. It censors which books can be read, what music can be listened to, and which plays can be performed.
When her best friend is killed by the authorities and her theater teacher disappears without a trace, Gigi decides to organize her fellow Champaign High School thespians to put on a production of Henry VI. But at what cost?
304 pages, Hardcover
Published July 16, 2024
18 people are currently reading
431 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Lariviere
4 books20 followersSarah grew up in Champaign, Illinois, graduated with a degree in theater from Oberlin College and has a master’s degree in social work from Hunter College in New York City, where she specialized in casework with children and families. She lives in Los Angeles, California, where she is inspired by her wild garden and listening to her son play guitar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 13, 2024
This almost felt....too real.
Riot Act caught my attention a while ago, but it took me a while to circle back to it. Told in an alternate version of the US in 1991, it's a book that serves as a cautionary tale.
What Worked: Thought I don't want to spoil the book (it's kept vague within the summary), I do want to point out that Lariviere chose a very interesting narrator for the story. It was unexpected and worked well with the rest of the content. There were unique implications for this character having an almost omnipresent role in the lives of the other characters. I also appreciated the complicated feelings and relationships that were tackled through the various interactions of the characters. The lack of trust, the fear, the desire to be close to someone, the fracturing of familial relationships were strategically interwoven into the story. The back drop of Henry VI served as an effective catalyst for the story as whole and defined the essence of resistance.
What Didn't Work: I wanted just a little more world building. This is a personal preference and could be an urge that has developed from our current political climate. I do think that teens seeking out this book will appreciate the focus on the coming of age elements. There were also some pacing issues in which the conclusion to a mystery is revealed early on making certain portions of the book anticlimactic particularly the ending. Stylistically, I understand what Lariviere was attempting to do on an emotional level, but it left much to be desired.
Overall, this was a solid read and one that I would recommend to teens who may show interest in books that have a "Handmaid's Tale" vibe to them. The 90s grunge thespians will appear to theater kids far and wide.
Riot Act caught my attention a while ago, but it took me a while to circle back to it. Told in an alternate version of the US in 1991, it's a book that serves as a cautionary tale.
What Worked: Thought I don't want to spoil the book (it's kept vague within the summary), I do want to point out that Lariviere chose a very interesting narrator for the story. It was unexpected and worked well with the rest of the content. There were unique implications for this character having an almost omnipresent role in the lives of the other characters. I also appreciated the complicated feelings and relationships that were tackled through the various interactions of the characters. The lack of trust, the fear, the desire to be close to someone, the fracturing of familial relationships were strategically interwoven into the story. The back drop of Henry VI served as an effective catalyst for the story as whole and defined the essence of resistance.
What Didn't Work: I wanted just a little more world building. This is a personal preference and could be an urge that has developed from our current political climate. I do think that teens seeking out this book will appreciate the focus on the coming of age elements. There were also some pacing issues in which the conclusion to a mystery is revealed early on making certain portions of the book anticlimactic particularly the ending. Stylistically, I understand what Lariviere was attempting to do on an emotional level, but it left much to be desired.
Overall, this was a solid read and one that I would recommend to teens who may show interest in books that have a "Handmaid's Tale" vibe to them. The 90s grunge thespians will appear to theater kids far and wide.
May 23, 2024
I like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book.
This book is interesting, and I feel if you're a drama kid / Shakespeare / dystopian fan you'd enjoy this. It's just... edgy, raw, with purpose. There is a lot of references to now and the possible future.
Lets give a run-down. Like the movie Sunset Boulevard, our main character is dead. He died at one point in the story. So were are seeing things from his eyes in the afterlife, doomed / stranded to watch his friends put the pieces of his death together amidst a totalitarian regime that began as one guy wanting to run for presidency in the 80s'... and then... never leave. In return, he twisted and made the world into a never aging, never advancing American Dream* gone wrong.
Rock and Roll stopped at the 80's and never went forward, same with Rap, same with any sort of music that gives a viewpoint that isn't aligned with wholesome and pure. Sure, people know of the music that was before the wholesome and pure times, but it's a problematic thing if you were to listen to it.
Like 1984, people rat on others, take them away for not following the code / law / supporting the ideals. Our main character got trapped in that all and that's why he died. He made a mistake, but the mistake cost him. So now he is forced to watch his best friend either doom herself or somehow make it through performing a play of Henry the IV.
The Henry the IV play was iconic. You have women playing men, interpreting the dialogue and its visuals in new ways, a gritty sort of tongue and cheek nod to the world they're living in now. I thought that was the best thing about the book. Like, the book itself felt like a play within a play within a play.
Ugh. A lot of rambling and feelings, but the author posted a list of books about living in communist or controlling societies (some I've read) which helped influence her. She also posted a playlist too that follows the book in terms of songs mentioned during certain scenes.
It's a good book, it might be too good for some, but I really recommend it as a raw, edgy read if you enjoyed all the above.
This book is interesting, and I feel if you're a drama kid / Shakespeare / dystopian fan you'd enjoy this. It's just... edgy, raw, with purpose. There is a lot of references to now and the possible future.
Lets give a run-down. Like the movie Sunset Boulevard, our main character is dead. He died at one point in the story. So were are seeing things from his eyes in the afterlife, doomed / stranded to watch his friends put the pieces of his death together amidst a totalitarian regime that began as one guy wanting to run for presidency in the 80s'... and then... never leave. In return, he twisted and made the world into a never aging, never advancing American Dream* gone wrong.
Rock and Roll stopped at the 80's and never went forward, same with Rap, same with any sort of music that gives a viewpoint that isn't aligned with wholesome and pure. Sure, people know of the music that was before the wholesome and pure times, but it's a problematic thing if you were to listen to it.
Like 1984, people rat on others, take them away for not following the code / law / supporting the ideals. Our main character got trapped in that all and that's why he died. He made a mistake, but the mistake cost him. So now he is forced to watch his best friend either doom herself or somehow make it through performing a play of Henry the IV.
The Henry the IV play was iconic. You have women playing men, interpreting the dialogue and its visuals in new ways, a gritty sort of tongue and cheek nod to the world they're living in now. I thought that was the best thing about the book. Like, the book itself felt like a play within a play within a play.
Ugh. A lot of rambling and feelings, but the author posted a list of books about living in communist or controlling societies (some I've read) which helped influence her. She also posted a playlist too that follows the book in terms of songs mentioned during certain scenes.
It's a good book, it might be too good for some, but I really recommend it as a raw, edgy read if you enjoyed all the above.
August 20, 2024
Riot Act
By Sarah Lariviere
Thank you so much partner @booksparks @aaknopf for the gifted copy. #SRC2024 #GameSetRead
About the book 👇🏽
In an alternate 1991, the authoritarian US government keeps tabs on everybody and everything. It censors which books can be read, what music can be listened to, and which plays can be performed.
When her best friend is killed by the authorities and her theater teacher disappears without a trace, Gigi decides to organize her fellow Champaign High School thespians to put on a production of Henry VI. But at what cost?
✨My thoughts:
Fast and different! My favorite thing about this one is that our narrator is unique*. If I say why they’re unique, I think it would be considered a spoiler but just know… I loved it. I’ve never read anything like this story. It’s a mixed bag and I found it to be interesting and I was compelled to read it until it was over. I will say, although I enjoyed it, it was also missing something but I can’t quite put my finger on it. It could have been the world building or the character but I wanted more. Overall, it’ll hold your attention, make you think, and the ending may very well crush you. Riot Act is out now!
Happy reading 📖
By Sarah Lariviere
Thank you so much partner @booksparks @aaknopf for the gifted copy. #SRC2024 #GameSetRead
About the book 👇🏽
In an alternate 1991, the authoritarian US government keeps tabs on everybody and everything. It censors which books can be read, what music can be listened to, and which plays can be performed.
When her best friend is killed by the authorities and her theater teacher disappears without a trace, Gigi decides to organize her fellow Champaign High School thespians to put on a production of Henry VI. But at what cost?
✨My thoughts:
Fast and different! My favorite thing about this one is that our narrator is unique*. If I say why they’re unique, I think it would be considered a spoiler but just know… I loved it. I’ve never read anything like this story. It’s a mixed bag and I found it to be interesting and I was compelled to read it until it was over. I will say, although I enjoyed it, it was also missing something but I can’t quite put my finger on it. It could have been the world building or the character but I wanted more. Overall, it’ll hold your attention, make you think, and the ending may very well crush you. Riot Act is out now!
Happy reading 📖
July 12, 2024
What a voice. RIOT ACT is nothing like you've read before. It's timely, it's in your face, and it's brave. The ending wrecked me.
May 31, 2024
4.5 Stars
This book is so incredibly bleak in a way that I so rarely get to experience--and I love it for that. Narrated by a snarky, queer, already-dead teenager stuck tagging along in his former best friend's consciousness (and fully unable to make any sort of connection with her), Sarah Lariviere's book paints a starkly dystopian alternate 1991 drenched in teenage rebellion, more than a bit of Shakespeare, and a newfound "libertarian" American government gone totally wrong. I don't know that I've read a book quite like this, and as soft as the narrative is, its hopelessness is devastating, breathtaking, and poignant.
Anyway, I think I might have liked this one, and more reasons why I did will be included in my full review at Gateway Reviews, going live July 19, 2024. Stop by and leave a comment if and when you get the chance!
Note: I was provided with an ARC by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions here are my own.
This book is so incredibly bleak in a way that I so rarely get to experience--and I love it for that. Narrated by a snarky, queer, already-dead teenager stuck tagging along in his former best friend's consciousness (and fully unable to make any sort of connection with her), Sarah Lariviere's book paints a starkly dystopian alternate 1991 drenched in teenage rebellion, more than a bit of Shakespeare, and a newfound "libertarian" American government gone totally wrong. I don't know that I've read a book quite like this, and as soft as the narrative is, its hopelessness is devastating, breathtaking, and poignant.
Anyway, I think I might have liked this one, and more reasons why I did will be included in my full review at Gateway Reviews, going live July 19, 2024. Stop by and leave a comment if and when you get the chance!
Note: I was provided with an ARC by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions here are my own.
July 4, 2024
~~Thank you to NetGalley and Random Children's House for the ARC!~~
Before I say anything about the book, I must point out the irony of me reading this book the week of 4th of July, the very one where our Supreme Courts ruled to revert our grand country back to a monarchy. How fun is that 🙃
Anyway, despite me agreeing with the politics of the story, I still didn't like it much.
First off, Max, the aforementioned dead friend from the synopsis is the narrator, which is pretty unique and unexpected. It did give the prose a very strong and distinctive voice, but it really bogged down two major elements in the story: The characters, particularly Gigi, and tension.
So, despite being dead, Max has a psychic connection to Gigi, so he's about to read all her thoughts/feelings to the reader. But him doing that really feels like he was taking Gigi's spot as the main character. Even on her own, I didn't find Gigi interesting. Yes, she did manage and direct Henry VI all on her own, a very commendable feat, but I really got annoyed at the love triangle she was having with Axl and Orin. The rest of the characters either annoyed me just as much as Gigi or are non characters, like the rest of the theater troupe.
As for specific reveals, the details of Max's death are told to us before Gigi, and when she finally is told, it lessened the impact so much. I so wish this book was strictly in Gigi's POV, because getting the more intimate details about Max really ruined the mystery and whatever image the reader could have of him.
The only thing about this book I liked a lot was the the showing of a totalitarian regime. Even though this takes place in an alt 90s reality, so much of the messaging, phrases, and actions of the SYXTEM echoes so much of what I've been seeing nowadays. Lariviere also included the reading/research she did in order to create the world, which I appreciate a lot. The small town setting also showed how oppressive the world had gotten since the regime took over.
All in all, despite me liking the world building, there's a lot keeping me from liking this book more. I just wish Gigi was a stronger character, and Max was allowed to be the dead boy whose presence was constantly felt but not heard.
Before I say anything about the book, I must point out the irony of me reading this book the week of 4th of July, the very one where our Supreme Courts ruled to revert our grand country back to a monarchy. How fun is that 🙃
Anyway, despite me agreeing with the politics of the story, I still didn't like it much.
First off, Max, the aforementioned dead friend from the synopsis is the narrator, which is pretty unique and unexpected. It did give the prose a very strong and distinctive voice, but it really bogged down two major elements in the story: The characters, particularly Gigi, and tension.
So, despite being dead, Max has a psychic connection to Gigi, so he's about to read all her thoughts/feelings to the reader. But him doing that really feels like he was taking Gigi's spot as the main character. Even on her own, I didn't find Gigi interesting. Yes, she did manage and direct Henry VI all on her own, a very commendable feat, but I really got annoyed at the love triangle she was having with Axl and Orin. The rest of the characters either annoyed me just as much as Gigi or are non characters, like the rest of the theater troupe.
As for specific reveals, the details of Max's death are told to us before Gigi, and when she finally is told, it lessened the impact so much. I so wish this book was strictly in Gigi's POV, because getting the more intimate details about Max really ruined the mystery and whatever image the reader could have of him.
The only thing about this book I liked a lot was the the showing of a totalitarian regime. Even though this takes place in an alt 90s reality, so much of the messaging, phrases, and actions of the SYXTEM echoes so much of what I've been seeing nowadays. Lariviere also included the reading/research she did in order to create the world, which I appreciate a lot. The small town setting also showed how oppressive the world had gotten since the regime took over.
All in all, despite me liking the world building, there's a lot keeping me from liking this book more. I just wish Gigi was a stronger character, and Max was allowed to be the dead boy whose presence was constantly felt but not heard.
April 15, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Children's, Knopf Books for Young Readers, and Sarah Lariviere for the opportunity to read Riot Act in exchange for an honest review.
This book has what an 80's or 90's baby wants to read for nostalgia, while offering an interesting take on the time period for younger contemporary readers. Riot Act takes place in an alternate, kind of dystopian, version of 1991 in the United States. With this authoritarian government, personal freedoms are more limited. Art is the key focus of censorship. Books, music, and plays are all limited and need government approval to read, listen, or watch.
While Gigi is the main character, the story is told from the perspective of her best friend Max's ghost. He narrates Gigi's life after her loss of him. He certainly has some thoughts about who she chooses to date, but she can't hear him. Her thoughts do process into Max's mind though. After his death and the disappearance of their theater teacher, both government-related incidents, Gigi wants to get the Thespians (their high school theater group) together to finish the performance of William Shakespeare's Henry VI that was started with their teacher. The plan is to put on this play under the government's radar with a few alterations as a show of rising up for artistic freedoms and justice.
I both loved and disliked this book at the same time. It was a strange reading experience to feel so conflicted. I found the 1984-esque style to be rather foreboding (in an interesting way), especially given today's world. As an English teacher, I also have an appreciation for the use of Shakespeare to demonstrate a purpose, as well as making the modifications to the performance that their society needs to get the needed message of the time.
While I liked the characters, I found the narrative choice to be both unique and awkward at the same time, though I can see ultimately why telling the story through Max was done. The story itself felt like a lot happened while nothing happened at the same time. I liked how the internet was a newer phenomenon during the time period and how that was played around with, but it could have been more in-depth to the crucial intent of mass global communications. For some reason, I wanted to finish this book, but the spark wasn't there to keep me going. I did finish, though it took longer than expected. Overall, I am neutral about the book for myself, but do recommend it for teen readers as a high school cautionary tale about art and government control.
This book has what an 80's or 90's baby wants to read for nostalgia, while offering an interesting take on the time period for younger contemporary readers. Riot Act takes place in an alternate, kind of dystopian, version of 1991 in the United States. With this authoritarian government, personal freedoms are more limited. Art is the key focus of censorship. Books, music, and plays are all limited and need government approval to read, listen, or watch.
While Gigi is the main character, the story is told from the perspective of her best friend Max's ghost. He narrates Gigi's life after her loss of him. He certainly has some thoughts about who she chooses to date, but she can't hear him. Her thoughts do process into Max's mind though. After his death and the disappearance of their theater teacher, both government-related incidents, Gigi wants to get the Thespians (their high school theater group) together to finish the performance of William Shakespeare's Henry VI that was started with their teacher. The plan is to put on this play under the government's radar with a few alterations as a show of rising up for artistic freedoms and justice.
I both loved and disliked this book at the same time. It was a strange reading experience to feel so conflicted. I found the 1984-esque style to be rather foreboding (in an interesting way), especially given today's world. As an English teacher, I also have an appreciation for the use of Shakespeare to demonstrate a purpose, as well as making the modifications to the performance that their society needs to get the needed message of the time.
While I liked the characters, I found the narrative choice to be both unique and awkward at the same time, though I can see ultimately why telling the story through Max was done. The story itself felt like a lot happened while nothing happened at the same time. I liked how the internet was a newer phenomenon during the time period and how that was played around with, but it could have been more in-depth to the crucial intent of mass global communications. For some reason, I wanted to finish this book, but the spark wasn't there to keep me going. I did finish, though it took longer than expected. Overall, I am neutral about the book for myself, but do recommend it for teen readers as a high school cautionary tale about art and government control.
May 14, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and Sarah Lariviere for an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
"A punk-rock 1984 retold as theater kids putting on an illegal production of Henry VI (Parts I, II and III), through the eyes of a dead boy haunting his best friend" was not on my bingo card for 2024's reads, but this is worth the words in that one-line blurb. Riot Act is insanely quotable, sometimes hysterical, and often more grave than our point of view character, Maximus, ever lets it seem. I forced myself to slow down so I could enjoy it more thoroughly.
Strangely, this is the third(?) book centering on theater kids trying to do cool stuff this year, but it is certainly the most novel of them so far. My only real question is if it is the start of a series/duo or a standalone - I could absolutely see it going either way.
4.5 rounded up. Great read.
"A punk-rock 1984 retold as theater kids putting on an illegal production of Henry VI (Parts I, II and III), through the eyes of a dead boy haunting his best friend" was not on my bingo card for 2024's reads, but this is worth the words in that one-line blurb. Riot Act is insanely quotable, sometimes hysterical, and often more grave than our point of view character, Maximus, ever lets it seem. I forced myself to slow down so I could enjoy it more thoroughly.
Strangely, this is the third(?) book centering on theater kids trying to do cool stuff this year, but it is certainly the most novel of them so far. My only real question is if it is the start of a series/duo or a standalone - I could absolutely see it going either way.
4.5 rounded up. Great read.
July 23, 2024
Highlights:
✨Unqiue Narrator: Max (our narrator) is a queer, snarky character who tragically dies at the hands of the government before the story even begins. Max, now a ghost stuck in limbo, attempts to haunt his best friend, Gigi, as she leads a teenage rebellion against the totalitarian regime that took Max's life.
✨Rebellion Thespians: Defying the laws of the new government, the Thespians stage an underground production of Henry IV, with a contemporary interpretation of the story. Quite clever!
✨Lee Osorio's narration beautifully captures the courage of these defiant teenagers amid challenging times. Well done!
Bottom Line: Unique dystopian with shades of our real-life political climate. Good world-building and an even better ending. Riot Act is book one of a duology filled with secrets, betrayal, friendships, love, and loss.
✨Unqiue Narrator: Max (our narrator) is a queer, snarky character who tragically dies at the hands of the government before the story even begins. Max, now a ghost stuck in limbo, attempts to haunt his best friend, Gigi, as she leads a teenage rebellion against the totalitarian regime that took Max's life.
✨Rebellion Thespians: Defying the laws of the new government, the Thespians stage an underground production of Henry IV, with a contemporary interpretation of the story. Quite clever!
✨Lee Osorio's narration beautifully captures the courage of these defiant teenagers amid challenging times. Well done!
Bottom Line: Unique dystopian with shades of our real-life political climate. Good world-building and an even better ending. Riot Act is book one of a duology filled with secrets, betrayal, friendships, love, and loss.
September 1, 2024
Wow, this book is a tough read, and I mean that in the best way. Set in a distopian version of 1991 (with not so subtle hits at our current political landscape) our narrator Max (a dead queer punk ) tells the story of his best friend leading a revolution against the oppressive government that contributed to Max’s death. This is an edgy punk rock book that both teens & adults will enjoy.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy of this book.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy of this book.
November 9, 2024
I'm in a terrible headspace to read this one, so DNFing. But it's been on my holds list forever and the little bit I did read seemed great lol.
July 2, 2024
“But we’re not the same. Our differences matter. Learning about each other, listening to each other, instead of dehumanizing each other, that’s how we stand up to power.”
The year is 1991, and America is unrecognizable, overtaken by a charismatic dictator who suppresses free expression by any means necessary. In this alternate, authoritarian history, a group of high school students who call themselves “The Thespians” lead their own form of rebellion, putting on a restricted production of William Shakespeare’s Henry VI. Gigi, the leader of this mutiny, is still reeling from the death of her best friend (who also happens to be the novel’s narrator), the disappearance of her theater teacher, and normal teenage struggles (like romance, school, and family relationships). As The Thespians approach show day, Gigi’s world continues to fall apart around her and the stakes of resistance continue to rise.
The backdrop of extreme political and social oppression that sets this novel does not seem compatible with the portrayal of everyday teenage experiences and struggles, but Lariviere managed to weave these ideas together with a notable grace and cohesiveness. The story was delivered through the narration of Max, one of the Thespians who was killed by law enforcement, but Max’s narration mostly follows his friend Gigi as she navigates the tension-filled political landscape of 1990’s Illinois. Max, despite being slightly removed from the lives of Gigi and others, paints a compelling picture of the characters in this world, having known them intimately. Additionally, the sardonic tone of the narrator fuels the angst of the piece and the setting. The beautiful prose and elegant diction that Max sometimes expresses contrasts with his biting and cutting teenage remarks in a way that captures the seriousness of the situation while also emphasizing the youth of the protagonists. However, the pacing of the novel was frustrating at times. It felt as though everything rapidly escalated in the final few chapters, while some other segments of the story felt very slow. Overall, I appreciated the depth and nuance of the plot and the characters’ relationships. Despite the narrator being grating and sarcastic, Max has some surprisingly powerful moments as well; one instance emerges when Max tries to communicate with Gigi, thinking, “You’re alive, my love is what I’d tell her. There is nothing else to have.” Additionally, the debates between characters about the merits of different acts of rebellion are reflective of debates we see in modern society, demonstrating Lariviere’s deft ability to apply relevant political commentary to a fictional narrative.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank SparkPoint Studio, NetGalley, and Knopf for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook @pinereadsreview, and check out our website at www.pinereadsreview.com for reviews, author interviews, blogs, podcast episodes, and more!
The year is 1991, and America is unrecognizable, overtaken by a charismatic dictator who suppresses free expression by any means necessary. In this alternate, authoritarian history, a group of high school students who call themselves “The Thespians” lead their own form of rebellion, putting on a restricted production of William Shakespeare’s Henry VI. Gigi, the leader of this mutiny, is still reeling from the death of her best friend (who also happens to be the novel’s narrator), the disappearance of her theater teacher, and normal teenage struggles (like romance, school, and family relationships). As The Thespians approach show day, Gigi’s world continues to fall apart around her and the stakes of resistance continue to rise.
The backdrop of extreme political and social oppression that sets this novel does not seem compatible with the portrayal of everyday teenage experiences and struggles, but Lariviere managed to weave these ideas together with a notable grace and cohesiveness. The story was delivered through the narration of Max, one of the Thespians who was killed by law enforcement, but Max’s narration mostly follows his friend Gigi as she navigates the tension-filled political landscape of 1990’s Illinois. Max, despite being slightly removed from the lives of Gigi and others, paints a compelling picture of the characters in this world, having known them intimately. Additionally, the sardonic tone of the narrator fuels the angst of the piece and the setting. The beautiful prose and elegant diction that Max sometimes expresses contrasts with his biting and cutting teenage remarks in a way that captures the seriousness of the situation while also emphasizing the youth of the protagonists. However, the pacing of the novel was frustrating at times. It felt as though everything rapidly escalated in the final few chapters, while some other segments of the story felt very slow. Overall, I appreciated the depth and nuance of the plot and the characters’ relationships. Despite the narrator being grating and sarcastic, Max has some surprisingly powerful moments as well; one instance emerges when Max tries to communicate with Gigi, thinking, “You’re alive, my love is what I’d tell her. There is nothing else to have.” Additionally, the debates between characters about the merits of different acts of rebellion are reflective of debates we see in modern society, demonstrating Lariviere’s deft ability to apply relevant political commentary to a fictional narrative.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank SparkPoint Studio, NetGalley, and Knopf for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook @pinereadsreview, and check out our website at www.pinereadsreview.com for reviews, author interviews, blogs, podcast episodes, and more!
September 8, 2024
I saw this title on Libby and thought it sounded like an interesting story to add to my TBR.
“Riot Act” follows a group of friends who all enjoy doing theatre together. The story is set in an alternative 1991 America, in which a government regime has completely taken control of American citizens. After their theatre teacher goes missing, Gigi decides to organize a play so that they can express their ill-feelings about the oppressive world they live in.
I really enjoyed the premise of this novel, and I think it is such a timely story. Governments in general have the bare-boned intention of protecting its people, but sometimes governments go too far, and try to control too much. Much like the novel “1984”, this novel highlights the negative ramifications when a government oversteps. Additionally, I think this novel did a great job at highlighting how the population can so easily be divided. Some people will think that the government is doing their job and will support them 100%, while other people will reject the government’s conservative ideals and seek to fight back. This was made highly evident in this novel, especially during the performance of the play.
Gigi was a wonderfully creative, complex, and brave character to read about. Her and her friends did not agree with the government, but they were smart and tactful in their rebellions. They knew this could be a life or death situation, and they did not take that lightly, but they were also brave enough to stand up and fight for what they believed in, even though they knew they might be painting a target on their back. Gigi took a classic play and adapted it to be a better reflection of their present world, and I loved that.
As much as I enjoyed the idea of this story, and I had moments I was heavily invested, I did not find myself loving this novel as much as I thought I would. The pacing felt kind of slow to me, and because of the amount of characters, I did not feel connected to any of them. There was also something to monotone about the writing style for me.
I definitely would still recommend this novel to anyone who is interested in a more modern “1984”, and I would still be willing to read from Sarah Lariviere in the future.
“Riot Act” follows a group of friends who all enjoy doing theatre together. The story is set in an alternative 1991 America, in which a government regime has completely taken control of American citizens. After their theatre teacher goes missing, Gigi decides to organize a play so that they can express their ill-feelings about the oppressive world they live in.
I really enjoyed the premise of this novel, and I think it is such a timely story. Governments in general have the bare-boned intention of protecting its people, but sometimes governments go too far, and try to control too much. Much like the novel “1984”, this novel highlights the negative ramifications when a government oversteps. Additionally, I think this novel did a great job at highlighting how the population can so easily be divided. Some people will think that the government is doing their job and will support them 100%, while other people will reject the government’s conservative ideals and seek to fight back. This was made highly evident in this novel, especially during the performance of the play.
Gigi was a wonderfully creative, complex, and brave character to read about. Her and her friends did not agree with the government, but they were smart and tactful in their rebellions. They knew this could be a life or death situation, and they did not take that lightly, but they were also brave enough to stand up and fight for what they believed in, even though they knew they might be painting a target on their back. Gigi took a classic play and adapted it to be a better reflection of their present world, and I loved that.
As much as I enjoyed the idea of this story, and I had moments I was heavily invested, I did not find myself loving this novel as much as I thought I would. The pacing felt kind of slow to me, and because of the amount of characters, I did not feel connected to any of them. There was also something to monotone about the writing style for me.
I definitely would still recommend this novel to anyone who is interested in a more modern “1984”, and I would still be willing to read from Sarah Lariviere in the future.
May 10, 2024
Thoughts: This is a very interesting book. One that should be read by everyone. Unfortunately, I predict it’s going to be banned by the very people who *should* be reading it. It’s thought provoking and disturbing, but so well-written. Quote: Ms. Lee is still talking. “And when they tell you you can’t do it? You do it anyway. You do it louder. You never stop.”
Told from the point of view of Max, who is actually dead, and trying to get his best friends to hear him, it shows what could happen if a dictator takes over the US. Quote: “History loves its snake oil salesmen.” Only certain music, theater, TV, radio, etc. is allowed. There’s no internet for outside information. Phone calls are regulated, and you can’t leave the city where you live without passes and permission. But that doesn’t stop the Thespian Club from putting on their own performances (in secret) of various plays. Gigi, Max’s best friend, is the main person Max is trying to talk to and she decides to put on version of a Shakespeare play that could really get her in trouble. The kind of trouble that Max got into. This is a story about teenagers who decide to fight back in the only way they know how—through art, theater, music. It is not a happy story or an easy one to read, but it is an amazing story, very well-written and with imagery that stays with you.
I love that there are strong ties to Shakespeare, especially Henry VI, and a couple references to Chekhov as well. At the end of the book, there is a recommended reading list as well as a playlist of music to go with the story.
Definitely Recommended
Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Told from the point of view of Max, who is actually dead, and trying to get his best friends to hear him, it shows what could happen if a dictator takes over the US. Quote: “History loves its snake oil salesmen.” Only certain music, theater, TV, radio, etc. is allowed. There’s no internet for outside information. Phone calls are regulated, and you can’t leave the city where you live without passes and permission. But that doesn’t stop the Thespian Club from putting on their own performances (in secret) of various plays. Gigi, Max’s best friend, is the main person Max is trying to talk to and she decides to put on version of a Shakespeare play that could really get her in trouble. The kind of trouble that Max got into. This is a story about teenagers who decide to fight back in the only way they know how—through art, theater, music. It is not a happy story or an easy one to read, but it is an amazing story, very well-written and with imagery that stays with you.
I love that there are strong ties to Shakespeare, especially Henry VI, and a couple references to Chekhov as well. At the end of the book, there is a recommended reading list as well as a playlist of music to go with the story.
Definitely Recommended
Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
July 17, 2024
“You have to start with an ideal. Americans need to lose our toxic devotion to hierarchy and power. Men, in particular, and white supremacy.”
In the alternate, Orwellian 1991 of "Riot Act by Sarah Lariviere, the authoritarian US government led by a hack businessman known for his tv appearances (sound familiar?) clamps down on creativity, censoring books, music, and plays - trying to control self expression and the Anti-Americans who want to be a part of it.
When Gigi's best friend, who narrates the story from the grave, is killed and her theater teacher vanishes, she rallies her high school theater group to stage a production of Henry VI. But the cost of rebellion is steep
Get ready for a thrilling ride through punk rock, secrets, and high-stakes drama that should serve as a bleak warning to every reader that voting is so important.
I loved the narration style of “Riot Act.” From the first sentence we are tied to Maximus who was killed before the story begins. His queer, snarky commentary helps keep the story from being a huge bummer. It was also interesting that he was omniscient yet didn’t realize his own omniscience.
Thanks to Book Sparks for serving this book up as a part of the Game On #src2024!
#BookRecommendation #YAReads #PageTurner #BookObsessed #MustReads #gamesetread
In the alternate, Orwellian 1991 of "Riot Act by Sarah Lariviere, the authoritarian US government led by a hack businessman known for his tv appearances (sound familiar?) clamps down on creativity, censoring books, music, and plays - trying to control self expression and the Anti-Americans who want to be a part of it.
When Gigi's best friend, who narrates the story from the grave, is killed and her theater teacher vanishes, she rallies her high school theater group to stage a production of Henry VI. But the cost of rebellion is steep
Get ready for a thrilling ride through punk rock, secrets, and high-stakes drama that should serve as a bleak warning to every reader that voting is so important.
I loved the narration style of “Riot Act.” From the first sentence we are tied to Maximus who was killed before the story begins. His queer, snarky commentary helps keep the story from being a huge bummer. It was also interesting that he was omniscient yet didn’t realize his own omniscience.
Thanks to Book Sparks for serving this book up as a part of the Game On #src2024!
#BookRecommendation #YAReads #PageTurner #BookObsessed #MustReads #gamesetread
November 27, 2024
3.5/5
"People are willing to live very small lives if their basic needs are met."
Described as "Punk rock meets Orwell's 1984," Riot Act by Sarah Lariviere is a must read for fans of dystopian fiction.
In an alternate 1991, Gigi Durant grapples with loss and uncertainty in a world overshadowed by the authoritarian grip of the SYXTEM party. Following the tragic death of her best friend Max at the hands of the government, and the mysterious disappearance of her beloved theater teacher Ms. Lee, Gigi finds herself navigating a dystopian landscape where personal freedoms are scarce and danger lurks around every corner. Surrounded by her friends and her theater group, the Thespians, Gigi strives to preserve her identity amidst this oppressive regime.
Lariviere vividly captures the complexities of adolescent life under totalitarian rule, offering a compelling narrative that resonates with both heartache and hope. I'm a huge fan of dystopian fiction and enjoyed hearing Gigi's story through Max's eyes. Max completely stole my heart!
Riot Act is a gripping exploration of youthful defiance and survival in the face of tyranny. Lariviere's storytelling prowess shines. If you're a fan of dystopian fiction, Riot Act should be your next read!
Read this if you like:
• dystopian YA fiction
• found family
• an endearing narrator
• theater kids
"People are willing to live very small lives if their basic needs are met."
Described as "Punk rock meets Orwell's 1984," Riot Act by Sarah Lariviere is a must read for fans of dystopian fiction.
In an alternate 1991, Gigi Durant grapples with loss and uncertainty in a world overshadowed by the authoritarian grip of the SYXTEM party. Following the tragic death of her best friend Max at the hands of the government, and the mysterious disappearance of her beloved theater teacher Ms. Lee, Gigi finds herself navigating a dystopian landscape where personal freedoms are scarce and danger lurks around every corner. Surrounded by her friends and her theater group, the Thespians, Gigi strives to preserve her identity amidst this oppressive regime.
Lariviere vividly captures the complexities of adolescent life under totalitarian rule, offering a compelling narrative that resonates with both heartache and hope. I'm a huge fan of dystopian fiction and enjoyed hearing Gigi's story through Max's eyes. Max completely stole my heart!
Riot Act is a gripping exploration of youthful defiance and survival in the face of tyranny. Lariviere's storytelling prowess shines. If you're a fan of dystopian fiction, Riot Act should be your next read!
Read this if you like:
• dystopian YA fiction
• found family
• an endearing narrator
• theater kids
November 1, 2025
I am not emotionally intelligent enough for this book, but you'll probably love it if you enjoy found families, trauma exploration, fighting The Man, intrigue and emotional complexity in relationships (both blood relative and peer). For me, it just didn't hit. Despite how much importance it places on the value of art, resisting authoritarianism and how doing what they say you can't is valuable resistance in itself, the entire unfolding story is basically about people keeping secrets from each other despite caring for each other, all the way to the final pages, with those secrets often being functional or explicit betrayals. And the ending has a tone of bittersweet triumph, but the actual events are a huge downer—it felt like everything led up to nothing but a symbolic gesture that was swiftly crushed, so the whole thing gave me the impression that looking out for one another is exhausting, doomed, and not even worth it.
I'm also not sure the interesting POV really "worked", despite Max's distinct voice, and it got hard to keep all of the characters straight. I gave up on keeping the thespians straight towards the end. But there's a lot of other subtle writing craft here and layers of intrigue, so don't let my 2 stars put you off of this book.
I'm also not sure the interesting POV really "worked", despite Max's distinct voice, and it got hard to keep all of the characters straight. I gave up on keeping the thespians straight towards the end. But there's a lot of other subtle writing craft here and layers of intrigue, so don't let my 2 stars put you off of this book.
July 31, 2024
I received a complimentary copy of this book through BookSparks and their Summer Reading Challenge 2024, Game Set Read!
Set in the early 1990s in Illinois, an alternate experience than what we've known but one that no longer feels unlikely (ie not what actually happened but at this point in history, it feels like it could), people are living a censored life. The US government is keeping tabs on everyone and everything, and there are consequences for everyone who does not comply - including death. Told from the perspective of a teen killed by the authorities as he watches his best friend try to fight back but can no longer communicate with her (because he's dead), this story is unpredictable and almost terrifying in how it paints government and society.
This book was interesting, but I got to a point where I wasn't as invested as I had been at the start. The ending was powerful though, or at least it ended in a way I didn't expect, but unfortunately not a new favorite.
CW: gun violence, death, blood, mentions of suicide
Set in the early 1990s in Illinois, an alternate experience than what we've known but one that no longer feels unlikely (ie not what actually happened but at this point in history, it feels like it could), people are living a censored life. The US government is keeping tabs on everyone and everything, and there are consequences for everyone who does not comply - including death. Told from the perspective of a teen killed by the authorities as he watches his best friend try to fight back but can no longer communicate with her (because he's dead), this story is unpredictable and almost terrifying in how it paints government and society.
This book was interesting, but I got to a point where I wasn't as invested as I had been at the start. The ending was powerful though, or at least it ended in a way I didn't expect, but unfortunately not a new favorite.
CW: gun violence, death, blood, mentions of suicide
July 24, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this. 3.5/5 stars.
I liked the dystopian sort of alternate (but painfully accurate) near future-ish elements of this novel. It is set in the 90s following a president deciding there would be no more elections but also was originally like...a businessman (ha, sound familiar?) and there's definitely elements of 1984 like the anti-american thought and whatnot.
It's told from the perspective of a ghost...which was interesting. But this ghost knew the feelings and thoughts of the main characters? I did like the drama/Shakespeare/angsty teen elements of this, punkrock, riot grrrrl stuff...but it just didn't draw me in to the plot all the way? I liked it more for the environment than I did the actual plot.
I liked the dystopian sort of alternate (but painfully accurate) near future-ish elements of this novel. It is set in the 90s following a president deciding there would be no more elections but also was originally like...a businessman (ha, sound familiar?) and there's definitely elements of 1984 like the anti-american thought and whatnot.
It's told from the perspective of a ghost...which was interesting. But this ghost knew the feelings and thoughts of the main characters? I did like the drama/Shakespeare/angsty teen elements of this, punkrock, riot grrrrl stuff...but it just didn't draw me in to the plot all the way? I liked it more for the environment than I did the actual plot.
June 26, 2024
How do you keep going when the oppressive authoritarian government kills your best friend? You take a stand. It has been a long time since I’ve read a dystopian book. This one was so, so good. It was confronting and fast-paced. A rag-tag group of teens is set on making a stand, and you can’t help but be terribly invested. The way the government was set up in this book didn’t feel far-fetched from the current rhetoric.
That thought alone was so upsetting. The characters were flawed and lovable. The ending left me staring into space, not knowing how to feel. I mean that in a positive way. It was confronting.
Overall, I loved this book. I recommend this book to everyone!
That thought alone was so upsetting. The characters were flawed and lovable. The ending left me staring into space, not knowing how to feel. I mean that in a positive way. It was confronting.
Overall, I loved this book. I recommend this book to everyone!
August 16, 2024
I love a good dystopian novel and Riot Act does it in such a unique way: an alternative 1991 United States that embraces the culture of the eighties while delivering a timely message to the present day reader. The setting allows for a richly detailed sense of time and place that is both deeply familiar and terrifyingly foreign. We also get plenty of teen angst related to love, sex, friendship, family that's all well balanced with the nightmare world these kids are living in. Teens gonna teen, but teens are also gonna protest an authoritarian dictatorship with a one-night-only staging of punk rock Shakespeare.
August 20, 2024
Probably this book is the only thing in the entire world that would make me wish for my teenage years again. No mean feat. The kids are all right! facing down a one-party state run by vicious morons, conflicting feelings about themselves and each other, and figuring out how to fight (and maybe die) for artistic truth. While it is set in 1990s Illinois, a place I have never been to, and their slang and musical tastes belong to that offline time, the broader themes are universal and you just know that that restaurant and its owner are all too real. Mean jokes. So relevant in 2024. Will re-read.
July 18, 2024
an interesting mix of theater kid + dystopian world + crime thriller + elements of the 80s. i really enjoyed the unique form of narration which was confusing at first, but i got the hang of it.
honestly i wish there was a bit more worldbuilding and context given to the external world. i thought it was really interesting but the characters didn't explore very much. the context of the world was given to us readers via politics and movements which was a bit disappointing overall. (i do appreciate the riot grrrl zine reference but it was mentioned way too much in my opinion)
honestly i wish there was a bit more worldbuilding and context given to the external world. i thought it was really interesting but the characters didn't explore very much. the context of the world was given to us readers via politics and movements which was a bit disappointing overall. (i do appreciate the riot grrrl zine reference but it was mentioned way too much in my opinion)
February 9, 2025
What went wrong with this?
Dystopian
Shakespeare themed
90’s music references
What could possibly go wrong?
Unfortunately… 😒
The narrator - audio and book - were bad and did the plot and main female character no justice.
The character of Gigi had no true agency in part because she didn’t drive the story… a dead friend did.
The idea of a totalitarian government and its blind, racist, homophobic followers who believe that their way of life is threatened and should be defended is interesting to read - making dystopian fiction my favorite genre…
But this wasn’t it.
Dystopian
Shakespeare themed
90’s music references
What could possibly go wrong?
Unfortunately… 😒
The narrator - audio and book - were bad and did the plot and main female character no justice.
The character of Gigi had no true agency in part because she didn’t drive the story… a dead friend did.
The idea of a totalitarian government and its blind, racist, homophobic followers who believe that their way of life is threatened and should be defended is interesting to read - making dystopian fiction my favorite genre…
But this wasn’t it.
May 7, 2025
The premise for this sounded amazing and very timely. The execution fell completely flat for me. I struggled with caring about any of the characters and their lack of depth & growth. The narrator was an odd choice- I held out hope that I could get behind it, but it became annoying constantly being reminded that they have died. The teenage humor had me rolling my eyes several times. Juvenile in a cringeworthy way. Around halfway through, I became disinterested and felt obligated to finish hoping that it would be worth the payoff. It wasn’t.
August 22, 2024
An alternate history set in middle America 1991. Lariviere does a great job capturing the fashion, the music, and the vibe of the 90s. I appreciate the work she did reading widely about what life under a rising dictatorship is like.
I'm not sure I'd read more if this does become the series it suggests.
I'm not sure I'd read more if this does become the series it suggests.
August 25, 2024
This book is so cool, so smart, so inventive and thrilling. It keeps you guessing in all the great ways. A total page turner. I loved the narrator and his voice and the world building. It feels both dreamily nostalgic and urgently present-day. I loved following all of these characters and didn't want it to end! Glad there's a sequel coming up!
September 15, 2024
This is the most obvious satire with the worst established narrator I’ve ever read. A celebrity becomes president and then a dictator? Surprised he isn’t named Tonald Drump. And the narrator is a dead kid but I keep forgetting it isn’t third person bc it would make more sense for it to be? His friend is supposed to hear him but she hasn’t yet, and somehow I the reader can? It just isn’t good.
July 16, 2024
I wish we lived in a world where this didn’t have to exist. But damn this story. A bunch of theater kids lead a revolution through secret Shakespeare plays in a dystopian story that doesn’t feel dystopian enough.
4.5 stars
Thank you Random House Children for the advance reader copy
4.5 stars
Thank you Random House Children for the advance reader copy
August 8, 2024
Theater as Rebellion, Art as Revolution? Yes, please, and thank you.
I loved it. I wish I’d been able to read this in high school—it would have been my rally and my anthem. As it stands today, I’ll still hold it close to my heart. Thespian punk!
I loved it. I wish I’d been able to read this in high school—it would have been my rally and my anthem. As it stands today, I’ll still hold it close to my heart. Thespian punk!
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