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Clan
Clans are Unity. No variation. No deviation. On Clades, to be a Clan is to be an exact copy. A perfect society cloning themselves to survive, even as the zombielike Frags threaten to overrun them on an unforgiving planet. Clan 1672 (privately known as Twain) was never supposed to survive the Incubation Tank. But he did. Illegally. He is different from the other Clans. A secret that could destroy him. _______ Suitable for ages 16+ The paperback contains illustrations by the author
336 pages, Paperback
First published November 12, 2013
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786 people want to read
About the author
Realm Lovejoy
7 books240 followersRealm Lovejoy is an American writer and an artist. She grew up in both Washington State and the Japanese Alps of Nagano, Japan. Currently she lives in Seattle and works as an artist in the video game industry. CLAN is her first book. You can find out more about her and her book at realmlovejoy.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
December 19, 2013
An entire civilization of human men cloned from one single being living on a distant planet? From the start I was hooked. These clones of Father Krume are designed to be identical. Same appearance, same ideas, identical desires. And, that's just plain impossible folks. I don't care if you were raised in a petri dish or a human uterus--every human WANTS. Something, anything...and that desire is what separates each of us--even if we happen to be an identical genetic match to another.
In CLAN, we get the viewpoint of three nearly eighteen year-old males. They have very different experiences, despite the call to Unity (conformity).
Clone 1672, also called Twain, tells most of the story. He was never meant to live. A genetic "experiment" by his sponsor Twigg--the second clone from Krume--Twain is raised in Twigg's home completely separate from the other clan. Twain longs to join his brethren, but can't. Because he's different. More so than he even realizes from seeing his white eyes gaze back at him from the mirror. See all clan have brown eyes, and being differnt targets Twain for destruction.
Clone 1249, called Buster, is a rebel. In fact, 1249 isn't even his real clone number. He's on the outskirts of Clan society providing illegal comfort to other clan in order to have a private life raising a defective clan child he saved. He recognizes Twain's plight and strives to teach Twain how to act within clan society--and how to escape it when the executioners come knocking.
Clone 1348, also called Chad, is sponsored by a second generation clone he despises. How can he not? Clan are about Unity, and perfection. And there is nothing perfect about witnessing your "father" commit an act of indecency. Chad will not ever succumb to the Narcissism lingering on the fringe of Clan society, yet his world is shifted by his interactions with Twain. If nothing else, being near this clan makes Chad realize there is more than Unity to respect.
When Father Krume dies and his successor is assassinated, the chaos of the Clan society forces these three unlikely compatriots into a journey none of them want to make--outside the safety of the city walls. There they develop the skill and knowledge to overcome their prejudices and their Frag enemies. Of course, alliances bring them home--but what awaits is a society in even more disarray.
And the secret reason the Clan clones was developed? It's stone-cold.
I don't care that they were 'identical' they were indomitable. The action is fast-paced and the characters leap off the page. Twain learning his genetic anomaly goes far beyond his different colored eyes? Wow. And Chad coming to terms with his fear of the unknown, fear of connection? I was so glad to see. it. But Buster goes the extra mile in every way. Just when you think he's going to take the easy way out--he freaking saves the day. I highly recommend CLAN to all YA readers and anyone who likes dystopian fiction.
In CLAN, we get the viewpoint of three nearly eighteen year-old males. They have very different experiences, despite the call to Unity (conformity).
Clone 1672, also called Twain, tells most of the story. He was never meant to live. A genetic "experiment" by his sponsor Twigg--the second clone from Krume--Twain is raised in Twigg's home completely separate from the other clan. Twain longs to join his brethren, but can't. Because he's different. More so than he even realizes from seeing his white eyes gaze back at him from the mirror. See all clan have brown eyes, and being differnt targets Twain for destruction.
Clone 1249, called Buster, is a rebel. In fact, 1249 isn't even his real clone number. He's on the outskirts of Clan society providing illegal comfort to other clan in order to have a private life raising a defective clan child he saved. He recognizes Twain's plight and strives to teach Twain how to act within clan society--and how to escape it when the executioners come knocking.
Clone 1348, also called Chad, is sponsored by a second generation clone he despises. How can he not? Clan are about Unity, and perfection. And there is nothing perfect about witnessing your "father" commit an act of indecency. Chad will not ever succumb to the Narcissism lingering on the fringe of Clan society, yet his world is shifted by his interactions with Twain. If nothing else, being near this clan makes Chad realize there is more than Unity to respect.
When Father Krume dies and his successor is assassinated, the chaos of the Clan society forces these three unlikely compatriots into a journey none of them want to make--outside the safety of the city walls. There they develop the skill and knowledge to overcome their prejudices and their Frag enemies. Of course, alliances bring them home--but what awaits is a society in even more disarray.
And the secret reason the Clan clones was developed? It's stone-cold.
I don't care that they were 'identical' they were indomitable. The action is fast-paced and the characters leap off the page. Twain learning his genetic anomaly goes far beyond his different colored eyes? Wow. And Chad coming to terms with his fear of the unknown, fear of connection? I was so glad to see. it. But Buster goes the extra mile in every way. Just when you think he's going to take the easy way out--he freaking saves the day. I highly recommend CLAN to all YA readers and anyone who likes dystopian fiction.
July 27, 2014
This review is also posted on my BLOG.
When I first read Clan's blurb I'm a little unsure if I want to add it on my TBR or/and review it. The only Dystopian book that I've read and managed to finish is Divergent and I'm not really planning on reading more dystopian story. (It's not just my thing) But wow! I'm so glad I gave this a chance. This turned out to be one of the best book that I've read. It's original, refreshing and fast-paced! It kept me on the edge of my seat and found myself screaming on it's twists and turns!
The story is set on Clades, a distant planet inhabited by an entire civilization of human men cloned from one single human being, Father Krume. We were first introduced to 1672, or Twain, as his sponsor calls him. All his life, he is hidden from the other clones and all he want is to go outside and be one of them. But his, sponsor, Twigg explained to him that he is different. And on Clades being different is NOT ACCEPTABLE. It's dangerous and may cost you your life! We're also introduced to some more interesting characters like 1249, or Buster, who is more a rule breaker. There's also 1348, also called Chad who is the exact opposite of Buster for he always follows the rules and who is totally Pro-UNITY.
I'm a fan of books that are in third person and I loved this even more because it was told from the POV of the three boys.
This book really surprised me. It kept me interested from the very start and it's so so hard to put down. I love that it's not predictable. There are a lot of times when I would just catch myself screaming because of a twist or sniffing because of something that would happen to Twain, or Buster, or Chad.
This book has a lot of tension going on and OH MY GOSH THE ENDING! I was at 97-98% and I thought 'I know what will happen and I should be at least emotionally prepared for it.." but BAM! The author surprised me again. So just imagine my face the moment I finished it. I was just like "Wait I don't understand.. How..? But why..? I thought.."
Original plot. Interesting characters. Surprising ending. This book is totally a page turner!
Notes: I really want to buy the actual book of this, I've read that there are some illustrations and I want to see it while re-reading it.
*e-copy via the tour host*
December 10, 2013
Check out Laura in Bookland
This book follows around 1672, or Twain, as his sponsor calls him. He has been in hiding for a very long time and all he wants to do is go outside. He sees shadows pass by the frosted glass window every day but that’s all he is able to see. All he knows is that he is special and that is why he can’t go out with all the other clans. Clans are exact copies. They do everything the same every day. There are no women on Clades. Just various ages of clones.
One day after he questions his sponsor enough, he finds out one reason why he isn’t allowed outside, he’s different. Then he finds a way to open the window and someone notices him. He is forced to go into the world and act like everyone else. Not to get noticed. This is very hard when you look and act different that the other clans. This is where his struggles begin. Twain starts out as a very strict rule follower. Then he makes a couple unlikely friends.
This story was definitely very different from anything I have read. I really didn’t know what to expect out of it because there was only one review on Goodreads! This story had quite a few plot twists. I didn’t predict anything that happened in the book. Which I liked because it kept me interested through the whole story. The ending was super intense and I couldn’t wait to find out the outcome. It put a big smile on my face! Ending the book with a smile is a fantastic way to end any book.
I enjoyed the writing style also. There was pretty good world building although it did take some time, that was how the plot played out and I feel it was done nicely. Even though the characters where clones I still really liked them. They had different personalities and you could tell who everyone was without a problem. This book was hard to put down!
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes sci-fi. I would recommend it for more mature readers.
*I received this for free in exchange for an honest review.
This book follows around 1672, or Twain, as his sponsor calls him. He has been in hiding for a very long time and all he wants to do is go outside. He sees shadows pass by the frosted glass window every day but that’s all he is able to see. All he knows is that he is special and that is why he can’t go out with all the other clans. Clans are exact copies. They do everything the same every day. There are no women on Clades. Just various ages of clones.
One day after he questions his sponsor enough, he finds out one reason why he isn’t allowed outside, he’s different. Then he finds a way to open the window and someone notices him. He is forced to go into the world and act like everyone else. Not to get noticed. This is very hard when you look and act different that the other clans. This is where his struggles begin. Twain starts out as a very strict rule follower. Then he makes a couple unlikely friends.
This story was definitely very different from anything I have read. I really didn’t know what to expect out of it because there was only one review on Goodreads! This story had quite a few plot twists. I didn’t predict anything that happened in the book. Which I liked because it kept me interested through the whole story. The ending was super intense and I couldn’t wait to find out the outcome. It put a big smile on my face! Ending the book with a smile is a fantastic way to end any book.
I enjoyed the writing style also. There was pretty good world building although it did take some time, that was how the plot played out and I feel it was done nicely. Even though the characters where clones I still really liked them. They had different personalities and you could tell who everyone was without a problem. This book was hard to put down!
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes sci-fi. I would recommend it for more mature readers.
*I received this for free in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2017
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I loved the premise of this book; in a world of clones, one (1672) finds himself different, hidden from society from which he wouldn't fit in.
While the audio narration is very good (Jeff Hays is amazing and should totally narrate a lot more audiobooks), I wasn't drawn into the characters. Once Twain (1672) meets up with the underground other Clans, there is unnecessary excessive profanity and I feel like it detracts from the novel.
While I really wanted to read this book from the blurb, it just wasn't my cup of tea.
I loved the premise of this book; in a world of clones, one (1672) finds himself different, hidden from society from which he wouldn't fit in.
While the audio narration is very good (Jeff Hays is amazing and should totally narrate a lot more audiobooks), I wasn't drawn into the characters. Once Twain (1672) meets up with the underground other Clans, there is unnecessary excessive profanity and I feel like it detracts from the novel.
While I really wanted to read this book from the blurb, it just wasn't my cup of tea.
February 5, 2014
Clone.
By saying I'm a clone I immediately become the unimportant copy.
The faceless guy with the same haircut as my Brethen.
A borrower - not my own being.
I walk n someone else's shoes.
At least that's how I was supposed to be.
Civilization that only has Clans - clones that came from one person and now form a society that serves purpose of Unity - to work together and produce more Clans. The history of the planet consists of humans leaving the Frag virus to prevent it from going to Earth. Since Father Krume (main scientist) has volunteered to run the project, every single Clan was the exact copy of him.
But it is impossible to be a copy of someone and having your DNA alternated without being your own person, with emotions and wants. The main character in this story is Train, also known by his Clan number 1672. His sponsor kept him hidden because he was different and once he went into the public, he was called mutant. Being different went against everything that the society stood for and he was not welcomed. But that's when he meets Buster (1249) and Chad (1348) and they became his family, his world.
"Sometimes... You have to live the life you believe in, no matter the outcome. When you're dead, nothing matters except for the lives you affectd. It's... love."
Clan was so different from any Dystopia/Sci-Fi book I read, it was fantastic. I definitely did not expect the twists and non-stop action that was on every page of this book. It was disturbing, sad, ridiculous, and I felt incredible close with all three characters. I'm glad I gave this book a chance and definitely reccomend it to everyone who likes a little nontraditional twist to their books.
Check out amazing graphics and illustrations like the one above on author's website. She also has incredible pictures from the released party of Clan that are awesome! Click HERE to view! xoxo
December 9, 2013
Wonderfully talented author and artist. Love the plot twists and unique writing style. Definitely worth getting the hard copy, the illustrations are breathtaking.
December 17, 2013
To be a Clan is to be an exact copy, a clone. Twain (1672) is not. He wasn't even meant to survive the incubation, but his sponsor saved him and kept him hidden away, only allowing Twain to look out into a world that will never accept him because he is different, and different is not allowed. When the Frag virus (the reason the cloning began in the first place) becomes a danger to the Clans once more, Twain has to fight for survival and risk execution for being different.
When I first picked up Clan I didn't know much about the story, and Realm Lovejoy really did surprise me (in a good way). Clan is a story that threw in plenty of twists and turns as it powered on through the many challenges Twain had to face. The one thing I felt though was that the beginning was a bit slow to get into the story, but once the action began it was a roller coaster of thrills and twists, even throwing an ending in that I didn't see coming (but I won't give anything away here).
Throw in a character that's bullied and tormented for being himself, and toss in a couple of friends (one a very unexpected ally and one with a really quirky personality that make the story interesting) and see what sorts of trouble and problems the character can get into and find solutions to. Twain is a well thought of character, and in this story he would have to be. For a character who is vastly different from everyone around him, he needs to be able to learn and grow in order to progress the story, as well as be sympathetic.
Realm Lovejoy has created a strong sci-fi that is packed with plenty of action and a satisfying ending (this being a stand-alone means you don't have to wait until the next story is released to find out the ending, another bonus). I would recommend this story to anyone who loves a good sci-fi story.
When I first picked up Clan I didn't know much about the story, and Realm Lovejoy really did surprise me (in a good way). Clan is a story that threw in plenty of twists and turns as it powered on through the many challenges Twain had to face. The one thing I felt though was that the beginning was a bit slow to get into the story, but once the action began it was a roller coaster of thrills and twists, even throwing an ending in that I didn't see coming (but I won't give anything away here).
Throw in a character that's bullied and tormented for being himself, and toss in a couple of friends (one a very unexpected ally and one with a really quirky personality that make the story interesting) and see what sorts of trouble and problems the character can get into and find solutions to. Twain is a well thought of character, and in this story he would have to be. For a character who is vastly different from everyone around him, he needs to be able to learn and grow in order to progress the story, as well as be sympathetic.
Realm Lovejoy has created a strong sci-fi that is packed with plenty of action and a satisfying ending (this being a stand-alone means you don't have to wait until the next story is released to find out the ending, another bonus). I would recommend this story to anyone who loves a good sci-fi story.
December 12, 2013
Fast-paced and well-crafted, I couldn't put it down. Reading this book is the kind of experience that stays with you, provoking thought about oneself and our society.The enigmatic characters came alive from the beginning of the work as if they really exist in some other reality.
With many intriguing twists, the plot definitely does not follow a boring formula so common in lighter fiction.
I highly recommend this book for anyone wanting an exciting read with a profound underlying message. Fantastic debut novel from a young author with her finger on the pulse of her generation's sentiments. I look forward to reading Ms. Lovejoy's next book!
With many intriguing twists, the plot definitely does not follow a boring formula so common in lighter fiction.
I highly recommend this book for anyone wanting an exciting read with a profound underlying message. Fantastic debut novel from a young author with her finger on the pulse of her generation's sentiments. I look forward to reading Ms. Lovejoy's next book!
July 23, 2016
I found the story interesting and was getting into it and then a swear word would be thrown in or there would be suggestive content. I've become less tolerant of content lately, especially if I don't already love the plot or characters, and especially because I have so many books to read. I just decided it wasn't a book I would want to promote or read, so ended up being a DNF.
Source: Tour host, which did not affect my review in any way.
Source: Tour host, which did not affect my review in any way.
September 24, 2014
When I started this book, I saw the starkness of the clones, and immediately saw Twain as the outsider. Themes of (non) conformity, individualisms, and cooperation all run through this book. Realm shows us that her expertise in sic-fi extends beyond the computer gaming world. I will definitely recommend this book to others.
Well done, and I look forward to your next book.
Well done, and I look forward to your next book.
March 12, 2017
This book felt as though it had points that I could really discuss in a discussion group. Influences of clones all being similar and differences in a group, good or bad and why. That no matter how hard you try, there are traits that could show stronger in the same gene pool no matter how hard you try to make all the same.
I loved the strong feeling of creating a society of clones in Father Krume's manner. We get that feel then watch it slowly crumble to pieces. He thinks this is a perfect concept that's not perfect.
****FULL REVIEW****
*At my request, this audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review.
Clone 1672, or Twain as his sponsor calls him, should never have lived. The glitch that happened in his pod marked him for dead before birth. However, Twigg took care of him in hopes that the mutation in Twain's genes would save them all. When Father Krume, the original who created the clones on Clades, learns of Twain's existence, he finally agrees to see if Twain can co-exist as a productive unit in their society of unity and no deviation. As Twain lives with others like him, he starts to see there is more happening here than all the clans are aware of.
Jeff gets to perform with this book. We have a few different voices, but for the most part this book is about a clan of same people. This is a challenge for any narrator to perform a book with clones. Why? Because they are all going to have similar voices. However, they could easily have different personalities that come through tones and articulation when they are away from the collective. Jeff performs this with each clone here. We get the voice of the computer that sounds as though it's through computer speakers, giving it a slightly different feel. When we get several speaking at once saying the same words, Jeff creates that for us to hear.
There is a line early in the book, Chapter 2, that really struck me. It feels as though this is the theme of why the clones live as they do.
"We don't want to be like Earth," Father Krume said. "I have told you how their differences caused the humans many wars and strife."
This comment by the creator of these clones on Clades feels to be key, the thought that created this whole world.
Oh the implications of a perfect world where everyone's the same, and how one small difference can be detected and shunned. The thing is, even if you clone and all live in the same fashion, there are still small attributes that shine through. You get a feel of a few clones being slightly different in different aspects; one's stronger and his first interaction with Twain gives us a feel of a bully, another seems carefree and (maybe) loving, another is pointed out to be interested in himself.
This book felt as though it had points that I could really discuss in a discussion group. For instance, influences of clones all being similar and differences in a group, good or bad and why. That no matter how hard you try, there are traits that could show stronger in the same gene pool no matter how hard you try to make all the same.
I loved the strong feeling of creating a society of clones in Father Krume's manner. We get that feel then watch it slowly crumble to pieces. He thinks this is a perfect concept that's not perfect.
There is more differences in the world than many know or see. But with Twain... there are hints to more secrets with Twain. Twigg knows more than he's let on. When we learn of one huge difference, all the hints of what Twain can or can't do and tiny differences make sense. I loved this big discovery moment. It's about the middle of the book, and feels like a huge reveal readying us for the next steps to come.
This book could easily have been boring, but Realm kept the story moving with curiosity. I was interested in Twain and his situation, then what he learned of others at classes for work. We learn about the world history and that there are differences in the clones as we go, keeping me curious. This is a story teens and adults could read/listen to. Learning the concept the world is suppose to function in, then seeing how it's changing, then the reason behind it all. The story was well written for bringing all the points out through the characters.
Our main character we live through is Twain, but we also get chapters through the eyes of Buster and Chad. The three have different views on the world that's suppose to be the same for all, but isn't. By the end of the story, I saw the clones as individuals people who deserved to live. It was quite a journey to get to know them and their reason for being.
I loved the strong feeling of creating a society of clones in Father Krume's manner. We get that feel then watch it slowly crumble to pieces. He thinks this is a perfect concept that's not perfect.
****FULL REVIEW****
*At my request, this audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review.
Clone 1672, or Twain as his sponsor calls him, should never have lived. The glitch that happened in his pod marked him for dead before birth. However, Twigg took care of him in hopes that the mutation in Twain's genes would save them all. When Father Krume, the original who created the clones on Clades, learns of Twain's existence, he finally agrees to see if Twain can co-exist as a productive unit in their society of unity and no deviation. As Twain lives with others like him, he starts to see there is more happening here than all the clans are aware of.
Jeff gets to perform with this book. We have a few different voices, but for the most part this book is about a clan of same people. This is a challenge for any narrator to perform a book with clones. Why? Because they are all going to have similar voices. However, they could easily have different personalities that come through tones and articulation when they are away from the collective. Jeff performs this with each clone here. We get the voice of the computer that sounds as though it's through computer speakers, giving it a slightly different feel. When we get several speaking at once saying the same words, Jeff creates that for us to hear.
There is a line early in the book, Chapter 2, that really struck me. It feels as though this is the theme of why the clones live as they do.
"We don't want to be like Earth," Father Krume said. "I have told you how their differences caused the humans many wars and strife."
This comment by the creator of these clones on Clades feels to be key, the thought that created this whole world.
Oh the implications of a perfect world where everyone's the same, and how one small difference can be detected and shunned. The thing is, even if you clone and all live in the same fashion, there are still small attributes that shine through. You get a feel of a few clones being slightly different in different aspects; one's stronger and his first interaction with Twain gives us a feel of a bully, another seems carefree and (maybe) loving, another is pointed out to be interested in himself.
This book felt as though it had points that I could really discuss in a discussion group. For instance, influences of clones all being similar and differences in a group, good or bad and why. That no matter how hard you try, there are traits that could show stronger in the same gene pool no matter how hard you try to make all the same.
I loved the strong feeling of creating a society of clones in Father Krume's manner. We get that feel then watch it slowly crumble to pieces. He thinks this is a perfect concept that's not perfect.
There is more differences in the world than many know or see. But with Twain... there are hints to more secrets with Twain. Twigg knows more than he's let on. When we learn of one huge difference, all the hints of what Twain can or can't do and tiny differences make sense. I loved this big discovery moment. It's about the middle of the book, and feels like a huge reveal readying us for the next steps to come.
This book could easily have been boring, but Realm kept the story moving with curiosity. I was interested in Twain and his situation, then what he learned of others at classes for work. We learn about the world history and that there are differences in the clones as we go, keeping me curious. This is a story teens and adults could read/listen to. Learning the concept the world is suppose to function in, then seeing how it's changing, then the reason behind it all. The story was well written for bringing all the points out through the characters.
Our main character we live through is Twain, but we also get chapters through the eyes of Buster and Chad. The three have different views on the world that's suppose to be the same for all, but isn't. By the end of the story, I saw the clones as individuals people who deserved to live. It was quite a journey to get to know them and their reason for being.
February 28, 2017
( Format : Audiobook )
"But you, you could be anybody."
A lone human man has become Father to a whole society. With no other humans on his planet, he has used his own body to clone copies of himself, growing babies in cats, all identical in appearance. And, necessarily, all male. The occasional mutation is destroyed. The members of this new society are known by a number, sewn onto the individual's clothing, and a verifiable inserted chip. Like "peas in a pod", each successive generation is trained to fit in, to never stand out as different, conforming to a unity within the highly structured organisation.
But one clone is visibly different from the others, a mutation who has been hidden by his sponsor since childhood but who yearns to leave his father's home and enter the world he sees outside of the window. 1672, also known as Twain, is about to enter a mostly hostile world at an especially dangerous time: they are about to be invaded by the infamous Frag virus.
As well as being an exciting action adventure, Clan has the classic science fiction quality of building a new world by which our own with it's faults and growing trends can be reflected back to us writ large, as in Brave New World, or 1984. The nature of personality, emotion and corruption is well covered, as is discrimination, but some good ideas, although introduced, are not followed through, such as that of how can someone really be identified when everyone looks identical? And also the very interesting possibilities. offered by the nature of Twain's differentness. Perhaps these are being saved for a future story.
Jeff Hays is an excellent narrator, with a very pleasant reading voice which imbues the written word with even greater tension and excitement and his protagonists are always very distinctive and fitting in character. The dramatisation is further enhanced by subtle (or occasionally explosive) sound effects - I especially enjoyed the very gentle echo on speech which is internal thought, thus differentiating it clearly from that spoken aloud. The whole is a pleasure to hear.
My thanks to the rights holder who freely gifted me a copy of Clan, via Audiobook Boom. It has very interesting and thought provoking ideas bound together in an enjoyable story. Whilst not meeting it's full potential and being a bit ragged in parts, it is still one I would happily recommend, especially in this audio format.
"But you, you could be anybody."
A lone human man has become Father to a whole society. With no other humans on his planet, he has used his own body to clone copies of himself, growing babies in cats, all identical in appearance. And, necessarily, all male. The occasional mutation is destroyed. The members of this new society are known by a number, sewn onto the individual's clothing, and a verifiable inserted chip. Like "peas in a pod", each successive generation is trained to fit in, to never stand out as different, conforming to a unity within the highly structured organisation.
But one clone is visibly different from the others, a mutation who has been hidden by his sponsor since childhood but who yearns to leave his father's home and enter the world he sees outside of the window. 1672, also known as Twain, is about to enter a mostly hostile world at an especially dangerous time: they are about to be invaded by the infamous Frag virus.
As well as being an exciting action adventure, Clan has the classic science fiction quality of building a new world by which our own with it's faults and growing trends can be reflected back to us writ large, as in Brave New World, or 1984. The nature of personality, emotion and corruption is well covered, as is discrimination, but some good ideas, although introduced, are not followed through, such as that of how can someone really be identified when everyone looks identical? And also the very interesting possibilities. offered by the nature of Twain's differentness. Perhaps these are being saved for a future story.
Jeff Hays is an excellent narrator, with a very pleasant reading voice which imbues the written word with even greater tension and excitement and his protagonists are always very distinctive and fitting in character. The dramatisation is further enhanced by subtle (or occasionally explosive) sound effects - I especially enjoyed the very gentle echo on speech which is internal thought, thus differentiating it clearly from that spoken aloud. The whole is a pleasure to hear.
My thanks to the rights holder who freely gifted me a copy of Clan, via Audiobook Boom. It has very interesting and thought provoking ideas bound together in an enjoyable story. Whilst not meeting it's full potential and being a bit ragged in parts, it is still one I would happily recommend, especially in this audio format.
January 3, 2019
Wow. What an interesting book. I was pleasantly blown away by it. I am always wary of futuristic novels, because it has to be well done. Well, I am pleased to announce that this one was very well done.
Twain is a Clan. Except, not really. He is hidden away, never allowed out of the house, to see another Clan, or to even look out the window. The only person he has is his sponsor ("father"), Twigg, and the computer. All Twain wants is to be out there, with the other Clans, doing what other Clans do. Except he can't, because he isn't even supposed to be alive. When he is discovered by the leader of the Clans, he is allowed to live, and finally be like other Clans, like he's always wanted. Except, he soon finds out that not everything on Clades is like he has been taught.
Even though everyone is a clone of the same person, the author did a really good job with characterization. Each of the main characters are different, distinctive. Twain is a bit different character. Since he's been hidden away for all of his life, he is very naive, like a child instead of the teenager (I think) he is. I also loved the other characters. Each one has the difficult issue of trying to separate themselves, be an individual. It was a hard task, but one Lovejoy pulled off quite well.
I did not know what to expect going into this, but it surprised me at every turn. Just when I thought I had it figured out...I didn't. There were definite plot twists, and Lovejoy kept it interesting the whole time. And that end? I thought I knew how it would end. But it didn't end that way. What.
I would definitely recommend this book. It was such a refreshing, interesting take on sci-fi and I loved it. It will definitely keep you guessing and entertained. Not to mention, Lovejoy touches on some really tough, deep issues that are more prevalent in our society than we would think. And I hear the paperback even has illustrations. You can't beat that.
I received an ecopy in exchange for my honest opinion for this blog tour. This does not affect my opinions in any way, except that maybe I need a physical copy to see these illustrations.
I received an eARC from the author, this did not affect my honest opinion.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads
Twain is a Clan. Except, not really. He is hidden away, never allowed out of the house, to see another Clan, or to even look out the window. The only person he has is his sponsor ("father"), Twigg, and the computer. All Twain wants is to be out there, with the other Clans, doing what other Clans do. Except he can't, because he isn't even supposed to be alive. When he is discovered by the leader of the Clans, he is allowed to live, and finally be like other Clans, like he's always wanted. Except, he soon finds out that not everything on Clades is like he has been taught.
Even though everyone is a clone of the same person, the author did a really good job with characterization. Each of the main characters are different, distinctive. Twain is a bit different character. Since he's been hidden away for all of his life, he is very naive, like a child instead of the teenager (I think) he is. I also loved the other characters. Each one has the difficult issue of trying to separate themselves, be an individual. It was a hard task, but one Lovejoy pulled off quite well.
I did not know what to expect going into this, but it surprised me at every turn. Just when I thought I had it figured out...I didn't. There were definite plot twists, and Lovejoy kept it interesting the whole time. And that end? I thought I knew how it would end. But it didn't end that way. What.
I would definitely recommend this book. It was such a refreshing, interesting take on sci-fi and I loved it. It will definitely keep you guessing and entertained. Not to mention, Lovejoy touches on some really tough, deep issues that are more prevalent in our society than we would think. And I hear the paperback even has illustrations. You can't beat that.
I received an ecopy in exchange for my honest opinion for this blog tour. This does not affect my opinions in any way, except that maybe I need a physical copy to see these illustrations.
I received an eARC from the author, this did not affect my honest opinion.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads
September 7, 2017
Note: I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.
This book was ... interesting. I liked the unusual premise of it (a planet full of clones) and the underlying message of what it means to be human, in spite of being "identical" to another person. There were some issues that affected my overall score, unfortunately. It started off well enough with the plotting and characters but towards the end it started to seem like it was being rushed along to a conclusion that felt anti-climactic. Not sure how to describe it or exactly when, towards the end, that it happened. But I recall feeling a little unsatisfied with how everything had played out. Still, it made for an interesting listen. Speaking of listening - another superb job by Jeff Hays, the narrator. Recommended for any fan of Hays and/or a fan of this genre.
This book was ... interesting. I liked the unusual premise of it (a planet full of clones) and the underlying message of what it means to be human, in spite of being "identical" to another person. There were some issues that affected my overall score, unfortunately. It started off well enough with the plotting and characters but towards the end it started to seem like it was being rushed along to a conclusion that felt anti-climactic. Not sure how to describe it or exactly when, towards the end, that it happened. But I recall feeling a little unsatisfied with how everything had played out. Still, it made for an interesting listen. Speaking of listening - another superb job by Jeff Hays, the narrator. Recommended for any fan of Hays and/or a fan of this genre.
May 25, 2017
Great book. Boy born with "mutation" clones of one guy. Turns out planet is inhabited by clones and ruled by "Father" scientist to feed alien invasion robotic creatures to save Earth.
March 7, 2017
** Review of Audio Format **
Clan Survival
Twain grows up never going outside, never seeing what’s beyond the opaque glass. He longs for unity, to be fully part of the clan, not just learning about it and never able to join the group. Father says it’s safer this way. Until one day Twain is discovered, he learns he is a mutant. The punishment is usually death, but it is decided that he will join the group as a builder and survive as part of unity…or not.
Twain quickly learns that unity is not all it appears from the outside and there is a whole underworld the clan either doesn’t know exists or ignores. Twain learns that there are those who would be his friend and will risk everything to help him survive. And also that the clan is not what it seems, not at all.
This was a good book and an interesting take on cloning. It all seems so foreign to begin with and the cruelty is hard to listen to. But as I got into it, I was drawn in and by the end I was fully invested in Twain and his friends and their struggle to survive an impossible situation.
The narration by Jeff Hays is a good one. His tone and cadence is perfect for the material and almost all of the voices are male as it is about a cloned society of the same person. But, interestingly, he manages to make them all seem different and unique so I always knew who was speaking.
I received this audiobook for free through Audiobook Boom! in exchange for an honest review.
Clan Survival
Twain grows up never going outside, never seeing what’s beyond the opaque glass. He longs for unity, to be fully part of the clan, not just learning about it and never able to join the group. Father says it’s safer this way. Until one day Twain is discovered, he learns he is a mutant. The punishment is usually death, but it is decided that he will join the group as a builder and survive as part of unity…or not.
Twain quickly learns that unity is not all it appears from the outside and there is a whole underworld the clan either doesn’t know exists or ignores. Twain learns that there are those who would be his friend and will risk everything to help him survive. And also that the clan is not what it seems, not at all.
This was a good book and an interesting take on cloning. It all seems so foreign to begin with and the cruelty is hard to listen to. But as I got into it, I was drawn in and by the end I was fully invested in Twain and his friends and their struggle to survive an impossible situation.
The narration by Jeff Hays is a good one. His tone and cadence is perfect for the material and almost all of the voices are male as it is about a cloned society of the same person. But, interestingly, he manages to make them all seem different and unique so I always knew who was speaking.
I received this audiobook for free through Audiobook Boom! in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2013
Clan is a very different sort of book. I went in feeling pretty clueless about it since there were no reviews up yet and all I really knew was that it was sci-fi. And it is, and initially feels very sci-fi as you start the book. It feels maybe a bit frigid and sterile. There's not really much emotion. We see that Twain is stifled in a home with his sponsor and that he's never seen the outside. One day he finds a way to look out and someone sees him and then his sponsor points out why he couldn't go out before, he has blue eyes and everyone else has brown. He is a mutant, different. This is because every single 'person' who they call 'clan' is a clone of their 'father'. So everyone looks exactly the same. They live in this society where they aren't suppose to be individuals. No laughter, no fun. Just learn and do what you need to do to keep things together. Twain only barely is allowed to live and they put him out in society to be with the others and contribute. He gets some bullying, which is the first sign that some of the clans do have individual thoughts and opinions. As the book continues we see this is true for most of them, even if they fight it. Twain is introduced to a sort of underground and is told he may need to escape there one day to avoid execution because of being a mutant.
Twain starts out being a rule follower, it was what he was taught his whole life by his sponsor. But he also wasn't out in society and now that he's out and he realizes all his own thoughts and opinions may not be clan and aline with what they are suppose to think. He slowly grows into a much more free thinking character with opinions and cares. He cares about others and when it comes down to really needing to step up he does so, fighting against the societal norm to protect others and himself.
Twain makes two friends, one of which is a total surprise and it shows that everything isn't black and white. While initially I had thought he could be the death of Twain, I was impressed when he became a protector. The other is a friend he made immediately who is much different from the others. In fact, he almost stands out as different to everyone because he has such individual thoughts and opinions and has trouble keeping them to himself. I felt the author did an amazing job in creating characters that were really multidimensional.
Initially I felt the book was a tad slow, but it was just being introduced to the world and seeing how it is. Getting a feel for the city filled with clones of one man. All looking the same and only differentiated by the numbers on their clothing and the chip in their body identifying their number. Once Twain starts to have more individual thought and is introduced to the other side of this society, one with more dirty secrets then he could imagine, the story really takes off. At this point it was hard to put down.
This book has a lot of twists. Because of the nature of it, it wasn't really possible to predict anything. With my brain constantly trying to figure out what might happen next, I just found myself surprised over and over again. I would think one thing only to be shocked by the events that occurred. Because of twists and turns it's not possible to really talk about the plot too much. It was one that was filled with crazyness and tension. There were lots of moments where I couldn't believe anyone could actually survive what was happening. Twain was close to be killed more then once and it was a wild ride!
The ending of the book caught me off guard. I was at 96% and there was still so much we needed to know! Well, the author fills us in about what happened, and it worked out well. It was an ending that really made me smile because I wasn't sure that things could possibly work out. Just the fact that ANYONE lived, would make me smile though, cause that was CRAZY-TOWN!
I definitely do recommend this book to mature YA readers who enjoy sci-fi and twisty plots. Excellent read!
Twain starts out being a rule follower, it was what he was taught his whole life by his sponsor. But he also wasn't out in society and now that he's out and he realizes all his own thoughts and opinions may not be clan and aline with what they are suppose to think. He slowly grows into a much more free thinking character with opinions and cares. He cares about others and when it comes down to really needing to step up he does so, fighting against the societal norm to protect others and himself.
Twain makes two friends, one of which is a total surprise and it shows that everything isn't black and white. While initially I had thought he could be the death of Twain, I was impressed when he became a protector. The other is a friend he made immediately who is much different from the others. In fact, he almost stands out as different to everyone because he has such individual thoughts and opinions and has trouble keeping them to himself. I felt the author did an amazing job in creating characters that were really multidimensional.
Initially I felt the book was a tad slow, but it was just being introduced to the world and seeing how it is. Getting a feel for the city filled with clones of one man. All looking the same and only differentiated by the numbers on their clothing and the chip in their body identifying their number. Once Twain starts to have more individual thought and is introduced to the other side of this society, one with more dirty secrets then he could imagine, the story really takes off. At this point it was hard to put down.
This book has a lot of twists. Because of the nature of it, it wasn't really possible to predict anything. With my brain constantly trying to figure out what might happen next, I just found myself surprised over and over again. I would think one thing only to be shocked by the events that occurred. Because of twists and turns it's not possible to really talk about the plot too much. It was one that was filled with crazyness and tension. There were lots of moments where I couldn't believe anyone could actually survive what was happening. Twain was close to be killed more then once and it was a wild ride!
The ending of the book caught me off guard. I was at 96% and there was still so much we needed to know! Well, the author fills us in about what happened, and it worked out well. It was an ending that really made me smile because I wasn't sure that things could possibly work out. Just the fact that ANYONE lived, would make me smile though, cause that was CRAZY-TOWN!
I definitely do recommend this book to mature YA readers who enjoy sci-fi and twisty plots. Excellent read!
August 31, 2016
Writer Person
This book is really something else. I'm really into sci-fi. I had high expectations for this book, and I must say, I was pretty impressed. One thing that struck me about the paperback was the illustrations. Oh. My. Gosh. For those who have the ebook, I'm sorry to say that you're missing out. It really added an extra something to the book. I enjoyed studying them to see how they related to the scene, and how Realm Lovejoy imagined this scene to be like.. It was nice. It was different. The entire book was in third person, and was told from the POV of three boys: 1249 (aka Buster), 1672 (aka Twain), and
Characters
So I liked Twain from the beginning. It was weird at first because he almost had no personality of his own. Almost. When it starts getting into what the society should be like, you notice just how different Twain always was. Even before the mutation is mentioned or revealed. (I must say that I totally guessed the mutation right. I don't know if it was predictable, or if I'm just awesome. But somehow I had a feeling.) It was really something else to him try to fit in, but also... aspire for something else, I guess. It's hard to describe.
Chad, for example, considered himself to be a perfect Clan. And in a way, he really was. He truly believed in Unity and such. The only ironic/hypocritical part about Unity was that, well. Differences were unacceptable. It makes sense, of course. But think about it. How Unified are they if differences tear them apart? Is it just me? But anyways. Chad irritated me for some time, but eventually he grew on me.
I was if-y about Buster for a while. I wasn't really sure how to feel about him. But as it went on, I found myself feeling very sympathetic. To me, he's the most humane one. The other Clans just scare me. Buster recognizes what's wrong with the society.
Plot
So what is wrong with the society? Well, they're all clones. Of the same guy. Weird?
Yeah, it gets weirder, trust me.
I won't give anything away. But I will say that I was surprised. There were so many aspects that I hadn't even considered. The book wasn't very explicit. There was a bit of language. It threw me off at first, but you get used to it.
It had a decent pace. From the beginning, there was action here, action there. It kind of all exploded at the end (figuratively speaking). I had trouble keeping up with everything that was happening. I suggest reading the last few chapters kind of slow. Just because there is a lot to take in.
Overall, I was impressed. Cloning is certainly an interesting issue and I like the way it was presented. Especially the epilogue. That was great. Like I always say, I love books that make me think. And this certainly made me think. I couldn't just be disgusted or appalled or shocked. I had to actually take into account the kind of world they live in. Not that it makes anything right. But it makes it understandable.
The only thing I might have wished for was a few more glimpses of Earth. What it's like now.
Everything takes place on Clades, and it leaves me wondering.
Rating: 4 stars
Why: I was impressed and I really enjoyed it. Not in love with it, but it really is good.
Recommendation: sci-fi lovers, definitely. People who love action and dystopian societies. Also, people who love illustrations. That may sound a bit weird, but if you enjoy a little extra something, the illustrations are great.
This book is really something else. I'm really into sci-fi. I had high expectations for this book, and I must say, I was pretty impressed. One thing that struck me about the paperback was the illustrations. Oh. My. Gosh. For those who have the ebook, I'm sorry to say that you're missing out. It really added an extra something to the book. I enjoyed studying them to see how they related to the scene, and how Realm Lovejoy imagined this scene to be like.. It was nice. It was different. The entire book was in third person, and was told from the POV of three boys: 1249 (aka Buster), 1672 (aka Twain), and
Characters
So I liked Twain from the beginning. It was weird at first because he almost had no personality of his own. Almost. When it starts getting into what the society should be like, you notice just how different Twain always was. Even before the mutation is mentioned or revealed. (I must say that I totally guessed the mutation right. I don't know if it was predictable, or if I'm just awesome. But somehow I had a feeling.) It was really something else to him try to fit in, but also... aspire for something else, I guess. It's hard to describe.
Chad, for example, considered himself to be a perfect Clan. And in a way, he really was. He truly believed in Unity and such. The only ironic/hypocritical part about Unity was that, well. Differences were unacceptable. It makes sense, of course. But think about it. How Unified are they if differences tear them apart? Is it just me? But anyways. Chad irritated me for some time, but eventually he grew on me.
I was if-y about Buster for a while. I wasn't really sure how to feel about him. But as it went on, I found myself feeling very sympathetic. To me, he's the most humane one. The other Clans just scare me. Buster recognizes what's wrong with the society.
Plot
So what is wrong with the society? Well, they're all clones. Of the same guy. Weird?
Yeah, it gets weirder, trust me.
I won't give anything away. But I will say that I was surprised. There were so many aspects that I hadn't even considered. The book wasn't very explicit. There was a bit of language. It threw me off at first, but you get used to it.
It had a decent pace. From the beginning, there was action here, action there. It kind of all exploded at the end (figuratively speaking). I had trouble keeping up with everything that was happening. I suggest reading the last few chapters kind of slow. Just because there is a lot to take in.
Overall, I was impressed. Cloning is certainly an interesting issue and I like the way it was presented. Especially the epilogue. That was great. Like I always say, I love books that make me think. And this certainly made me think. I couldn't just be disgusted or appalled or shocked. I had to actually take into account the kind of world they live in. Not that it makes anything right. But it makes it understandable.
The only thing I might have wished for was a few more glimpses of Earth. What it's like now.
Everything takes place on Clades, and it leaves me wondering.
Rating: 4 stars
Why: I was impressed and I really enjoyed it. Not in love with it, but it really is good.
Recommendation: sci-fi lovers, definitely. People who love action and dystopian societies. Also, people who love illustrations. That may sound a bit weird, but if you enjoy a little extra something, the illustrations are great.
January 11, 2014
I had no idea what I was getting into when I opened this book. This isn’t the kind of book I usually go for, though I was happy I did. Clan was a breath of fresh air from the predictable plots and clouded romance a lot of YA books consist of. It was original with some brilliant concepts and underlying messages, though it was hard to understand at times, and sometimes the plot went a little too fast.
Clan is a Sci-fi book set in other planted hosting a community of clones called “Clan”. Each clone refers to themselves as part of the “clan” and have a number – the only thing that deffers one person from the other. The clans are brought up to know no sense of individuality; meaning no emotion, routine and complete, utter sameness. This story is told from number 1672, an illegal, mutated Clan that was classified as dead at birth from his incubation chamber – but survived because he was specifically made by his sponsor, clone number 2. It’s through his eyes we discover what Clan life is like and the major concepts of the story are brought forward.
First up – the prologue of the story absolutely captured me. It summed up the questions and issues brought up in the story. I did have a problem with pace, though. The story started too quickly, but it eventually evened out to a good pace. There were also a lot of refernces that were hard to understand, leaving me confused during the beginning of the book – but that’s to be expected in a Sci-fi.
The book brought of some great issues and concepts. The clones were brought up to live by “Unity”. However, through the eyes of three clones, unity was shown to be nothing but an illusion. Twain: A “mutant” was designed to be different, to change society and let his clan understand that “difference” is a good thing (which he realises and fights for in the end). Buster: His fear of being different led him to save others who fear the same, and now revels in being special. Chad: his dedication for unity (and experiences) lead him to ultimately be different, without him realizing it.
This all leads to the concept of clones; of being nothing but a replica, a shadow of the original. These three show that people are not defined by DNA, but experience, perceptions and actions. I love how the characters come to realize this differently, understanding that their emotionless upbringing is rubbish because they are still human.
The plot was also exciting. I had no idea where it was going. There was contant twists, tension and surprise. The ending was somewhat confusing – I had to read the epilogue twice. I did eventually get the gist of it though, and I found it a fitting end for all the characters.
Overall, the plot was great, number 1672 (aka Twain) was loveable, and the others were also likeable. The plot was excellent, and despite the setting being hard to contemplate, all the characters actions and emotions were believable. I’m really glad I decided to step out of my comfort zone – as I really enjoyed this. If you like a sci-fi, want a break from romance and don’t mind a fast pace story, I recommend Clan to you.
Clan is a Sci-fi book set in other planted hosting a community of clones called “Clan”. Each clone refers to themselves as part of the “clan” and have a number – the only thing that deffers one person from the other. The clans are brought up to know no sense of individuality; meaning no emotion, routine and complete, utter sameness. This story is told from number 1672, an illegal, mutated Clan that was classified as dead at birth from his incubation chamber – but survived because he was specifically made by his sponsor, clone number 2. It’s through his eyes we discover what Clan life is like and the major concepts of the story are brought forward.
First up – the prologue of the story absolutely captured me. It summed up the questions and issues brought up in the story. I did have a problem with pace, though. The story started too quickly, but it eventually evened out to a good pace. There were also a lot of refernces that were hard to understand, leaving me confused during the beginning of the book – but that’s to be expected in a Sci-fi.
The book brought of some great issues and concepts. The clones were brought up to live by “Unity”. However, through the eyes of three clones, unity was shown to be nothing but an illusion. Twain: A “mutant” was designed to be different, to change society and let his clan understand that “difference” is a good thing (which he realises and fights for in the end). Buster: His fear of being different led him to save others who fear the same, and now revels in being special. Chad: his dedication for unity (and experiences) lead him to ultimately be different, without him realizing it.
This all leads to the concept of clones; of being nothing but a replica, a shadow of the original. These three show that people are not defined by DNA, but experience, perceptions and actions. I love how the characters come to realize this differently, understanding that their emotionless upbringing is rubbish because they are still human.
The plot was also exciting. I had no idea where it was going. There was contant twists, tension and surprise. The ending was somewhat confusing – I had to read the epilogue twice. I did eventually get the gist of it though, and I found it a fitting end for all the characters.
Overall, the plot was great, number 1672 (aka Twain) was loveable, and the others were also likeable. The plot was excellent, and despite the setting being hard to contemplate, all the characters actions and emotions were believable. I’m really glad I decided to step out of my comfort zone – as I really enjoyed this. If you like a sci-fi, want a break from romance and don’t mind a fast pace story, I recommend Clan to you.
April 9, 2014
You can check out my Reviews and Giveaways at Http://www.YAReview.com
I got this Ebook copy from Candace’s Book Blog for an honest review for the Author.
I wanted to review this book because of the whole concept of cloning. I haven’t read a YA book about that yet and I thought this was good time to-do just that. The whole concept of cloning has always seemed creepy to me. I don’t know about the rest of you but I wouldn’t want a clone or multiple. It would just drive me crazy, Just no. Even tho cloning might have some perks. I know that cloning animals has been done. And cloning Humans isn’t really that far in thought. It could happen sometime in the future and I really hope it doesn’t happen, but hey you never know.
In this book you follow 3 Clones but the main one is 1672 also know as Twain. Twin is “Mutated” or what they call him. He was never meant to leave his tube and join the rest of the clones cause he wouldn’t fit in. Later on in the book you found out what truly makes him different from the rest of the clones. All the clones must be equal. They all most sound, Walk, and act the same. The ones who don’t get killed off.
Twain meets Buster a rebel Clone, who helps clones that escaped to the outside. Buster tries to protect Twain from being executed. And than you have Chad. A clone that wants noting but to fit in and follow the rules. But struggles at doing just that. He envys Twain for being different but later on in the book he starts to get a little closer to Twain.
To be honest in the beginning of the story it really starts out slow. There was a lot of times I put down my Tablet because I was bored. There was some parts of the book that really was interesting and did stood out than the rest but I just didn’t overall enjoy the book that much. The more the books goes the more awkward it gets. I am not trying to Judge anyone or anything like that but there was this huge plot in the book that made it really awkward to keep reading. Tho I do have to say this book just stand out than must books book it just didn’t have what I wanted in the story and just some parts in the book it was really hard to wrap my head around it. The story does take daring steps that most book stay always from so I do have to give brownie point for bravery. The story isn’t bad, it just isn’t for everyone. If you are open-minded and want to read box that outside the book than this book is perfect. It just wasn’t for me.
Overall: The character stood, The plot line of the story really stands out. Tho the story has a lot of awkward scene that did make feel a little uncomfortable. But really I do see a handful of people who will take interest in this that I totally recommend for. I don’t see people like me liking it too much but it wasn’t a “Bad” story. Even tho I didn’t overall like the story, I still felt like it was still better than a 2 star rating so I am gonna give this a 3 star rating.
I got this Ebook copy from Candace’s Book Blog for an honest review for the Author.
I wanted to review this book because of the whole concept of cloning. I haven’t read a YA book about that yet and I thought this was good time to-do just that. The whole concept of cloning has always seemed creepy to me. I don’t know about the rest of you but I wouldn’t want a clone or multiple. It would just drive me crazy, Just no. Even tho cloning might have some perks. I know that cloning animals has been done. And cloning Humans isn’t really that far in thought. It could happen sometime in the future and I really hope it doesn’t happen, but hey you never know.
In this book you follow 3 Clones but the main one is 1672 also know as Twain. Twin is “Mutated” or what they call him. He was never meant to leave his tube and join the rest of the clones cause he wouldn’t fit in. Later on in the book you found out what truly makes him different from the rest of the clones. All the clones must be equal. They all most sound, Walk, and act the same. The ones who don’t get killed off.
Twain meets Buster a rebel Clone, who helps clones that escaped to the outside. Buster tries to protect Twain from being executed. And than you have Chad. A clone that wants noting but to fit in and follow the rules. But struggles at doing just that. He envys Twain for being different but later on in the book he starts to get a little closer to Twain.
To be honest in the beginning of the story it really starts out slow. There was a lot of times I put down my Tablet because I was bored. There was some parts of the book that really was interesting and did stood out than the rest but I just didn’t overall enjoy the book that much. The more the books goes the more awkward it gets. I am not trying to Judge anyone or anything like that but there was this huge plot in the book that made it really awkward to keep reading. Tho I do have to say this book just stand out than must books book it just didn’t have what I wanted in the story and just some parts in the book it was really hard to wrap my head around it. The story does take daring steps that most book stay always from so I do have to give brownie point for bravery. The story isn’t bad, it just isn’t for everyone. If you are open-minded and want to read box that outside the book than this book is perfect. It just wasn’t for me.
Overall: The character stood, The plot line of the story really stands out. Tho the story has a lot of awkward scene that did make feel a little uncomfortable. But really I do see a handful of people who will take interest in this that I totally recommend for. I don’t see people like me liking it too much but it wasn’t a “Bad” story. Even tho I didn’t overall like the story, I still felt like it was still better than a 2 star rating so I am gonna give this a 3 star rating.
November 25, 2016
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Before I started this novel I had heard that it was a slow starter, so I had mentally prepared myself to be bored for 100 pages or so before it took off. But I really didn’t need to worry about that. Personally I don’t think it was slow to begin with at all, it just set a tone and flowed quite nicely.
Clan is not an action packed science fiction novel, but it’s not meant to be (well…there is some action in the last quarter of the book or so, I was surprised and horrified by it – you’re meant to be horrified by what is happening).
It was a journey of self discovery that starts with the realisation by Twain that he is different in a society of clones. He is hidden away by his sponsor, no-one knows he exists until he is accidentally discovered because of his curiosity. Once it is found he is different to everyone else (who, as they are clones, are exactly the same) he is then challenged to fit in, even though he is obviously going to stick out like a sore thumb.
We are then introduced to Buster and Chad. All of the clones (or clans) are referred to by their numbers as well as their names. This is not difficult to follow at all (and the idea that they are all numbers is a bit depressing). Buster is also different, and we soon learn the punishment for not conforming is quite dire indeed.
I really enjoyed following these three characters, in particular Twain, who is our main protagonist. His character development is wonderful and there’s quite a few twists and turns throughout the story that kept me guessing – his big secret for example. I was not expecting it (I may have actually gasped when it was revealed). The end in particular had my heart racing – I was soooo worried! And it ended really well (it is a standalone novel – a rare thing these days it seems!)
Realm Lovejoy did a brilliant job creating characters that may have all the same physical attributes, but they all had their own quirks, even if their society didn’t allow them to display these traits in public. All the characters we came across were individuals, no one blended in to the background, quite a feat I think; considering all the characters are clones of one man.
Clan brings up many questions about society I think. How we treat others who are different, how we as human beings treat other creatures we feel are inferior. How weird it must be to realise you’re a clone (wouldn’t that be strange?!) and not individual, but at the same time it’s what’s inside of us that is unique.
It was just a great novel and I hope if you feel like something a bit quieter and more thought provoking than your usual science fiction, that you check it out. Clan is well worth a read in my opinion.
Before I started this novel I had heard that it was a slow starter, so I had mentally prepared myself to be bored for 100 pages or so before it took off. But I really didn’t need to worry about that. Personally I don’t think it was slow to begin with at all, it just set a tone and flowed quite nicely.
Clan is not an action packed science fiction novel, but it’s not meant to be (well…there is some action in the last quarter of the book or so, I was surprised and horrified by it – you’re meant to be horrified by what is happening).
It was a journey of self discovery that starts with the realisation by Twain that he is different in a society of clones. He is hidden away by his sponsor, no-one knows he exists until he is accidentally discovered because of his curiosity. Once it is found he is different to everyone else (who, as they are clones, are exactly the same) he is then challenged to fit in, even though he is obviously going to stick out like a sore thumb.
We are then introduced to Buster and Chad. All of the clones (or clans) are referred to by their numbers as well as their names. This is not difficult to follow at all (and the idea that they are all numbers is a bit depressing). Buster is also different, and we soon learn the punishment for not conforming is quite dire indeed.
I really enjoyed following these three characters, in particular Twain, who is our main protagonist. His character development is wonderful and there’s quite a few twists and turns throughout the story that kept me guessing – his big secret for example. I was not expecting it (I may have actually gasped when it was revealed). The end in particular had my heart racing – I was soooo worried! And it ended really well (it is a standalone novel – a rare thing these days it seems!)
Realm Lovejoy did a brilliant job creating characters that may have all the same physical attributes, but they all had their own quirks, even if their society didn’t allow them to display these traits in public. All the characters we came across were individuals, no one blended in to the background, quite a feat I think; considering all the characters are clones of one man.
Clan brings up many questions about society I think. How we treat others who are different, how we as human beings treat other creatures we feel are inferior. How weird it must be to realise you’re a clone (wouldn’t that be strange?!) and not individual, but at the same time it’s what’s inside of us that is unique.
It was just a great novel and I hope if you feel like something a bit quieter and more thought provoking than your usual science fiction, that you check it out. Clan is well worth a read in my opinion.
December 23, 2013
This review originally appeared on my blog, Leeanna.me.
==
CLAN is an unusual young adult book. Unusual in a good, unique way, that is. Instead of focusing on relationships or adventure or the like, CLAN is a book that will make you think.
On one level, it’s the story of a young clone trying to find his place in a society that values unity. No deviations of behavior are accepted, which makes it difficult, if not impossible, for Twain to fit in. For Twain is unlike the other Clan. His sponsor has never allowed him to spend time with the other Clan of his batch, or even to go outside. Lonely and confused, Twain just wants to fit in. To be Clan.
But when Twain finally gets his chance to be with the others, it comes with a heavy price. He and his sponsor face execution if he cannot fit in. His blue eyes and long hair stand out amongst a sea of brown eyes and crew cuts. There’s one other big difference, but I’ll let you discover it for yourself. I will say I definitely didn’t see it coming.
On another level, CLAN questions what it means to be a clone, and what it means to be human. Are clones identical to the nth degree? Theoretically they should be, right? Because they all come from the same genetic source. But are they really? And why does discrimination still exist when everyone is identical? How far should science go in the effort of trying to save something?
At first, I was a little wary of CLAN. The beginning was slow, and I wondered just where the story was going. But once it got going … I didn’t want to stop reading. The last fourth or so of the book flew by. The author continually surprised me with plot twists and story revelations. I didn’t expect a lot of what happened, and I always enjoy when I can’t predict where a book will go. For example: how do you find a murderer when everyone has the same fingerprints? Yeeeeah. Good question, isn’t it? And if everyone is supposed to look and act the exact same, how do you know for sure if Clan 1400 is really Clan 1400?
I’d recommend CLAN for readers who like thought-provoking books and science fiction. The book is self-published, but well-done. And lastly, if you read the ebook version, make sure you check out the author’s website, since she has drawn several illustrations for the book.
==
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I also participated in the blog tour for this book.
See more of my reviews:
==
CLAN is an unusual young adult book. Unusual in a good, unique way, that is. Instead of focusing on relationships or adventure or the like, CLAN is a book that will make you think.
On one level, it’s the story of a young clone trying to find his place in a society that values unity. No deviations of behavior are accepted, which makes it difficult, if not impossible, for Twain to fit in. For Twain is unlike the other Clan. His sponsor has never allowed him to spend time with the other Clan of his batch, or even to go outside. Lonely and confused, Twain just wants to fit in. To be Clan.
But when Twain finally gets his chance to be with the others, it comes with a heavy price. He and his sponsor face execution if he cannot fit in. His blue eyes and long hair stand out amongst a sea of brown eyes and crew cuts. There’s one other big difference, but I’ll let you discover it for yourself. I will say I definitely didn’t see it coming.
On another level, CLAN questions what it means to be a clone, and what it means to be human. Are clones identical to the nth degree? Theoretically they should be, right? Because they all come from the same genetic source. But are they really? And why does discrimination still exist when everyone is identical? How far should science go in the effort of trying to save something?
At first, I was a little wary of CLAN. The beginning was slow, and I wondered just where the story was going. But once it got going … I didn’t want to stop reading. The last fourth or so of the book flew by. The author continually surprised me with plot twists and story revelations. I didn’t expect a lot of what happened, and I always enjoy when I can’t predict where a book will go. For example: how do you find a murderer when everyone has the same fingerprints? Yeeeeah. Good question, isn’t it? And if everyone is supposed to look and act the exact same, how do you know for sure if Clan 1400 is really Clan 1400?
I’d recommend CLAN for readers who like thought-provoking books and science fiction. The book is self-published, but well-done. And lastly, if you read the ebook version, make sure you check out the author’s website, since she has drawn several illustrations for the book.
==
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I also participated in the blog tour for this book.
See more of my reviews:
February 14, 2015
Clan is a bit different from some of the other YA sci-fi books I've read. I'd even suggest that it leans toward the adult category, but I'm not sure about that. Clan explores the possible culture of a cloned group of people, including the concept of self and sexuality in a population that is entirely the same. Of course, as the story progresses, we see more and more hints that this population really isn't as unified as it claims to be. (Seriously, who were the Clans kidding? They didn't have Unity figured out at all. Granted, there's a reason for that... and I liked seeing why the society was crumbling... so that's a plus. Yay having a plausible backstory.)
At first, I found the writing style choppy, and the first chapter read a little slow for me, but once I got past the first chapter, I was immersed in the story. Though it doesn't have a lot of action, (until the climax), Clan has a strong pull to make you want to know what happens next. You don't get all the details until the very end, and even then, you're left wondering about the results of the climax, and how everything ties together, and what allowed the situation in Clan to come about, and a lot of other things I can't really say because they'd be spoilers.
As a side note... and I may be completely wrong about this, but I think there's a Portal reference in the middle of the book. Hidden for spoilers since it happens at a dramatic moment:
As for the ending, I enjoyed the epilogue thoroughly, .
In regards to the print book, the illustrations were definitly a nice touch-- especially seeing how the illustrations tie into the story. They were the main reason I wanted a print copy of the book, even though I had just gotten a Kindle. Nevermind that it took me a year to actually read Clan. Don't let that discourage you... I just had a long reading list.
Overall, Clan is a thoughtful read, and should appeal to people who like stories with clones and dystopian/utopian societies, were nothing is quite as it seems.
At first, I found the writing style choppy, and the first chapter read a little slow for me, but once I got past the first chapter, I was immersed in the story. Though it doesn't have a lot of action, (until the climax), Clan has a strong pull to make you want to know what happens next. You don't get all the details until the very end, and even then, you're left wondering about the results of the climax, and how everything ties together, and what allowed the situation in Clan to come about, and a lot of other things I can't really say because they'd be spoilers.
As a side note... and I may be completely wrong about this, but I think there's a Portal reference in the middle of the book. Hidden for spoilers since it happens at a dramatic moment:
As for the ending, I enjoyed the epilogue thoroughly, .
In regards to the print book, the illustrations were definitly a nice touch-- especially seeing how the illustrations tie into the story. They were the main reason I wanted a print copy of the book, even though I had just gotten a Kindle. Nevermind that it took me a year to actually read Clan. Don't let that discourage you... I just had a long reading list.
Overall, Clan is a thoughtful read, and should appeal to people who like stories with clones and dystopian/utopian societies, were nothing is quite as it seems.
February 18, 2014
I loved it! Really Enjoyed it!!!
Never read a sci-fi before as I always thought that they are not my cup of tea with all those confusing and mind numbing scientific references. But this year I decided to give chance to every genre so when I spotted a chance to do so after reading the blurb I instantly requested to be part of this review tour. I loved that trailer and what intrigued me most was the idea of a whole community made up of exactly same looking people.
This story follows Twain a.k.a 1672 (as people in his world addressed him) and the fellow clans he come across. He lives on a planet Clades and people on that planet are known as clans who are exact copies. The most interesting part about this planet is that a human (scientist) created a whole civilization of clones who were the same exact copy of him. He raised them as a part of an earth project to divert the harmful space virus from entering Earth.
All Clans were exactly same, photocopies of a single human Father Krume, no woman only clones- men each known with there unique ID number and had a boring monotonous routine. Twain was different and there is no place for difference on Clades but he is given a chance to live. On his first day out in society he meets the rebellious Buster and a bully Chad. And the following days are filled with deathly adventures and many eye-popping revelations and many myths are broken.
This nail biting read has amazing twist and turns which kept me hooked up till the end. The situation felt almost real and has awesome and nicely sketched of characters.
The plot is filled with so many unpredictable surprises that after 50% book I stopped the guessing game and kept my eyes glued to look for the next bomb in the plot.
Twain is a frail (physically) clan with a really strong heart, his curious mind led him to various eye opening and life threatening facts.
Buster is a rebellious kind who break many rules but with a kind heart who loved his friends and can do anything for them. He was like 'Robin Hood' for the needy and helpless. I liked him a lot for his blunt nature.
Chad was a soft heart with hard exterior. Initially a bully who didn't liked Twain and Buster who eventually became the most amazing friend and loved Tawin.
Overall amazing read with stupendous suspense and equally awesome thrill ride sprinkled with a little tinge of emotions. The only down point I felt was that Chad and Buster had a little lacking back story.
I give this fantabulous book 4.5 out of 5.
Originally posted on http://gatewaytodifferentworld.blogsp...
Never read a sci-fi before as I always thought that they are not my cup of tea with all those confusing and mind numbing scientific references. But this year I decided to give chance to every genre so when I spotted a chance to do so after reading the blurb I instantly requested to be part of this review tour. I loved that trailer and what intrigued me most was the idea of a whole community made up of exactly same looking people.
This story follows Twain a.k.a 1672 (as people in his world addressed him) and the fellow clans he come across. He lives on a planet Clades and people on that planet are known as clans who are exact copies. The most interesting part about this planet is that a human (scientist) created a whole civilization of clones who were the same exact copy of him. He raised them as a part of an earth project to divert the harmful space virus from entering Earth.
All Clans were exactly same, photocopies of a single human Father Krume, no woman only clones- men each known with there unique ID number and had a boring monotonous routine. Twain was different and there is no place for difference on Clades but he is given a chance to live. On his first day out in society he meets the rebellious Buster and a bully Chad. And the following days are filled with deathly adventures and many eye-popping revelations and many myths are broken.
This nail biting read has amazing twist and turns which kept me hooked up till the end. The situation felt almost real and has awesome and nicely sketched of characters.
The plot is filled with so many unpredictable surprises that after 50% book I stopped the guessing game and kept my eyes glued to look for the next bomb in the plot.
Twain is a frail (physically) clan with a really strong heart, his curious mind led him to various eye opening and life threatening facts.
Buster is a rebellious kind who break many rules but with a kind heart who loved his friends and can do anything for them. He was like 'Robin Hood' for the needy and helpless. I liked him a lot for his blunt nature.
Chad was a soft heart with hard exterior. Initially a bully who didn't liked Twain and Buster who eventually became the most amazing friend and loved Tawin.
Overall amazing read with stupendous suspense and equally awesome thrill ride sprinkled with a little tinge of emotions. The only down point I felt was that Chad and Buster had a little lacking back story.
I give this fantabulous book 4.5 out of 5.
Originally posted on http://gatewaytodifferentworld.blogsp...
December 29, 2013
REVIEW
On the planet Clades, populated by Clans or clones of a "father". Women don't exist. The males are identical to the original which was a scientist from Earth. There was a Frag virus that had almost wiped out the entire planet of Clades. The cloning was done for survival of society.
One young Clan has never been out of his sponsor's home. He is 1672 or Twain. He is a mutant that never should have survived. But he survived the Incubation tank thanks to his sponsor. Once he was discovered he has to join his peers and work at becoming a Builder. 1672 is not accepted with open arms. He is different from them. He stands out from the rest. His hair is longer and his eyes lighter. His peers bullies and beats him. He does find two friends which was unexpected. One turns out to be Twain's biggest bully. His other ally is very unique in his way of living and his personality is one that is definitely distinct. Once again the Frag virus threatens the Clan society. 1672 must fight for his life.
The book was well written and with much imagination. Once you start reading you can't put it down. It is cause for a moment of thought. What if? Is it possible that the Clan society exists out there somewhere? That's an eerie thought, but very possible with today's technology that keeps improving day by day. The book definitely is different. It isn't one that is based on romance, murders, adventurers or any of the other usual themes. It is a book that brings about thought. It's a book that sticks with you even when you are done. Just think, Clones are exact copies of each other, there is no room or tolerance for anything different. Twain 1672 is a misfit. He doesn't belong. Differences are not acceptable. Totally UNACCEPTABLE. Would you want to be a clone?
I had a couple of problems with the book. First the cover: Not very appealing to me. It needed a little spark to it to catch your attention. Second, I believe the curse words could have been left out. I know that kids now a days have probably heard it all, but I feel we don't have to add to it.
Other than those two things, I would recommend the book to YA and Young-at-Hearters. I thought it was quite thought provoking and an interesting read. I'm not a YA. So pick yourself up a copy and travel to Clades and take a look at how 1672 and the others live.
I would give this book 4 CLONES.
I was given a complimentary copy of CLAN from the author Realm Lovejoy for my uncompensated opinion.
On the planet Clades, populated by Clans or clones of a "father". Women don't exist. The males are identical to the original which was a scientist from Earth. There was a Frag virus that had almost wiped out the entire planet of Clades. The cloning was done for survival of society.
One young Clan has never been out of his sponsor's home. He is 1672 or Twain. He is a mutant that never should have survived. But he survived the Incubation tank thanks to his sponsor. Once he was discovered he has to join his peers and work at becoming a Builder. 1672 is not accepted with open arms. He is different from them. He stands out from the rest. His hair is longer and his eyes lighter. His peers bullies and beats him. He does find two friends which was unexpected. One turns out to be Twain's biggest bully. His other ally is very unique in his way of living and his personality is one that is definitely distinct. Once again the Frag virus threatens the Clan society. 1672 must fight for his life.
The book was well written and with much imagination. Once you start reading you can't put it down. It is cause for a moment of thought. What if? Is it possible that the Clan society exists out there somewhere? That's an eerie thought, but very possible with today's technology that keeps improving day by day. The book definitely is different. It isn't one that is based on romance, murders, adventurers or any of the other usual themes. It is a book that brings about thought. It's a book that sticks with you even when you are done. Just think, Clones are exact copies of each other, there is no room or tolerance for anything different. Twain 1672 is a misfit. He doesn't belong. Differences are not acceptable. Totally UNACCEPTABLE. Would you want to be a clone?
I had a couple of problems with the book. First the cover: Not very appealing to me. It needed a little spark to it to catch your attention. Second, I believe the curse words could have been left out. I know that kids now a days have probably heard it all, but I feel we don't have to add to it.
Other than those two things, I would recommend the book to YA and Young-at-Hearters. I thought it was quite thought provoking and an interesting read. I'm not a YA. So pick yourself up a copy and travel to Clades and take a look at how 1672 and the others live.
I would give this book 4 CLONES.
I was given a complimentary copy of CLAN from the author Realm Lovejoy for my uncompensated opinion.
January 29, 2014
3.9
Clan is a ya sci-fi novel about a young man in a society completely composed of clones. Yes, I said clones. Clan, 1672, or Twain as others come to call him, was supposed to be an exact copy of his brethren. Everyone in his society is an exact copy of one man. The man who is in charge of the birth of clones knew when Twain was born that he was different, but instead of killing him like he was supposed to, he hid Twain away in his home for years. I am unsure how old Twain was when the leader of the society found out about Twain, but I assume he was in his late preteens or early teens. Anyway, Twain is very naive and does not even get to see his fellow clones until he is this age and is caught because of his curiosity putting himself at the mercy of the leader. The head honcho doesn't order him killed, but instead they have him groomed for another job. He then has to learn to assimilate with his fellow clones, who do not take well to his differences.
The other clones reaction to Twain's differences really made me think of some other prejudices that have come to pass in our world due to differences in appearance or culture. He is treated terribly and has a long road ahead of him. It really makes you think that if this is such a perfect society, how do these people learn to hate someone so much. All they have ever known is a perfect mundane and uniform life where everyone looks and acts the same. How is anger and hatred their first reaction towards someone just slightly different from themselves? It's not like they were taught to hate someone different. They never expected someone to break the law and let a mutant live. It broke my heart and really made me think.
Getting into some of the other clones head was a great idea on the author's part. While the story is told in third person and focuses on Twain, there are a few other characters that are central to the story. The story also follows Buster and Chad, two other clones, as they learn to deal with Twain's existence and the new changes that are happening in their precious perfect society.
Some parts of the story were hard to follow, however, and I had to backtrack a lot.
I found the actual story-line to be extremely original with plenty of twists that simultaneously shocked and confused me. Very entertaining with awesome images to complement the story and a surprise ending that gave the book a final, albeit strange ending.
Clan is a ya sci-fi novel about a young man in a society completely composed of clones. Yes, I said clones. Clan, 1672, or Twain as others come to call him, was supposed to be an exact copy of his brethren. Everyone in his society is an exact copy of one man. The man who is in charge of the birth of clones knew when Twain was born that he was different, but instead of killing him like he was supposed to, he hid Twain away in his home for years. I am unsure how old Twain was when the leader of the society found out about Twain, but I assume he was in his late preteens or early teens. Anyway, Twain is very naive and does not even get to see his fellow clones until he is this age and is caught because of his curiosity putting himself at the mercy of the leader. The head honcho doesn't order him killed, but instead they have him groomed for another job. He then has to learn to assimilate with his fellow clones, who do not take well to his differences.
The other clones reaction to Twain's differences really made me think of some other prejudices that have come to pass in our world due to differences in appearance or culture. He is treated terribly and has a long road ahead of him. It really makes you think that if this is such a perfect society, how do these people learn to hate someone so much. All they have ever known is a perfect mundane and uniform life where everyone looks and acts the same. How is anger and hatred their first reaction towards someone just slightly different from themselves? It's not like they were taught to hate someone different. They never expected someone to break the law and let a mutant live. It broke my heart and really made me think.
Getting into some of the other clones head was a great idea on the author's part. While the story is told in third person and focuses on Twain, there are a few other characters that are central to the story. The story also follows Buster and Chad, two other clones, as they learn to deal with Twain's existence and the new changes that are happening in their precious perfect society.
Some parts of the story were hard to follow, however, and I had to backtrack a lot.
I found the actual story-line to be extremely original with plenty of twists that simultaneously shocked and confused me. Very entertaining with awesome images to complement the story and a surprise ending that gave the book a final, albeit strange ending.
April 10, 2014
I was a GoodReads First Reads winner of this book. This was a major win! I had recently posted about my love for Ayn Rand's book: The Anthem. Well, The Anthem just met the 2000's.
Spoilers below!!!!
The Clan is a book about a dystopian future society. Earth has been attacked by a migrating virus called The Frag. In order to continue survival a scientist, now referred to as Father Krume, has taken over the new planet referred to as The Clades. Father Krume has learned how to clone and begins cloning himself. The first batch of clones are the second in charge of the colony. There are second-batchers and Controls who maintain order in the colony as well. The purpose of the colony of clones, called Clan, is Unity. With everyone being cloned after Father Krume, there are no differences between members including the fact that they are all male.
The story centers around clan 1672, A.K.A. Twain. Twain was created by his sponsor Twigg. Twigg is a first batch clone and the head of biological and technical engineering. Twain lives in a home with Twigg, but is never allowed to leave or see outside. Twain learns of Twigg's master code and opens the frosted glass of his window one day. This single event leads the story. Twain is discovered and also his secret. Twain is a mutant. There is something about Twain that is unlike the other Clans. This is not supposed to be allowed in the society. If a Clan has any sort of mutation upon birth he is to be incinerated. This is the catalyst of the story.
The story revolves around the ideas of unity, identity, competition, love, connection, and humanity. Taking from the core idea of the book The Anthem the books takings these ideas to the 2000's. One major issue is that of homosexuality and sexuality in general. I loved the fact that homosexuality is referred to as narcissism. The text is moving, heartbreaking, and over all thought provoking. I would have liked the story to be a little more flushed out at the end. For example, where does the Frag virus originate from? What significance do the locusts have? At one point the text talks about the locusts being dormant virus', but what makes them active? Does the Frag virus reduce life expectancy? Overall, though I loved the text, especially the ending. Are all societies doomed? I highly recommend the text and am REALLY thankful to have won this text!
Spoilers below!!!!
The Clan is a book about a dystopian future society. Earth has been attacked by a migrating virus called The Frag. In order to continue survival a scientist, now referred to as Father Krume, has taken over the new planet referred to as The Clades. Father Krume has learned how to clone and begins cloning himself. The first batch of clones are the second in charge of the colony. There are second-batchers and Controls who maintain order in the colony as well. The purpose of the colony of clones, called Clan, is Unity. With everyone being cloned after Father Krume, there are no differences between members including the fact that they are all male.
The story centers around clan 1672, A.K.A. Twain. Twain was created by his sponsor Twigg. Twigg is a first batch clone and the head of biological and technical engineering. Twain lives in a home with Twigg, but is never allowed to leave or see outside. Twain learns of Twigg's master code and opens the frosted glass of his window one day. This single event leads the story. Twain is discovered and also his secret. Twain is a mutant. There is something about Twain that is unlike the other Clans. This is not supposed to be allowed in the society. If a Clan has any sort of mutation upon birth he is to be incinerated. This is the catalyst of the story.
The story revolves around the ideas of unity, identity, competition, love, connection, and humanity. Taking from the core idea of the book The Anthem the books takings these ideas to the 2000's. One major issue is that of homosexuality and sexuality in general. I loved the fact that homosexuality is referred to as narcissism. The text is moving, heartbreaking, and over all thought provoking. I would have liked the story to be a little more flushed out at the end. For example, where does the Frag virus originate from? What significance do the locusts have? At one point the text talks about the locusts being dormant virus', but what makes them active? Does the Frag virus reduce life expectancy? Overall, though I loved the text, especially the ending. Are all societies doomed? I highly recommend the text and am REALLY thankful to have won this text!
January 20, 2014
My thoughts while reading the story:
Beginning–Wow, this is a cool and original story. It really makes you think.
Middle–ummm…WHAT?! I don’t like those jerks. What a bunch of asses! and ewwww that’s nasty.
Close to end–Oh, heck no! Surely the book isn’t going to end like that.
End- Close book. Satisfied. Days later still contemplating what if’s and some of the social implications and underlying points of this story.
CLAN is about a future society set up on the planet Clades. It is an all male cloned society based around one original “Father”. The society’s pledge is UNITY. Everyone is the same. Everyone behaves the same. Individual thought and feelings never enter into the picture. It is with UNITY that the CLAN survives.
We follow the story of clone #1672 and quickly realize that he (#1672 aka Twain) is different. We learn that not only does he have physical differences from the CLAN but that he also has personality differences. He questions things, he desires things, and he is shocked to discover that he also feels things. Twain was an easy character to love. His story is heartbreaking, heroic, and inspiring.
There is SO much in this story and so many angles to examine and discuss it from. One of the things that stuck with me was the all male society. The world that existed in this society felt cold, sterile, and lacking. The rules, the things that were missing without females present, the things that were done in the absence of their presence, each element added another layer to this very unique story.
I think the world building is fantastic but I also feel that the actual story is unique. It takes so many unexpected turns and has layers to it that is unusual in books today. I experienced a lot of ups and downs with it and I will admit that at times I was more than a little disturbed by some of the things that happened.
It was truly fascinating to me and when I took the time to think about it on a deeper level it made me appreciate even more the value of individuality and the uniqueness that each of us brings into a society.
I know this book is classed in Young Adult but I honestly feel like it should be more in New Adult. So I am recommending this for 17+, based on language and situations. If you enjoy a unique story that is full of layers that can be explored on a deeper level you will enjoy this story.
Beginning–Wow, this is a cool and original story. It really makes you think.
Middle–ummm…WHAT?! I don’t like those jerks. What a bunch of asses! and ewwww that’s nasty.
Close to end–Oh, heck no! Surely the book isn’t going to end like that.
End- Close book. Satisfied. Days later still contemplating what if’s and some of the social implications and underlying points of this story.
CLAN is about a future society set up on the planet Clades. It is an all male cloned society based around one original “Father”. The society’s pledge is UNITY. Everyone is the same. Everyone behaves the same. Individual thought and feelings never enter into the picture. It is with UNITY that the CLAN survives.
We follow the story of clone #1672 and quickly realize that he (#1672 aka Twain) is different. We learn that not only does he have physical differences from the CLAN but that he also has personality differences. He questions things, he desires things, and he is shocked to discover that he also feels things. Twain was an easy character to love. His story is heartbreaking, heroic, and inspiring.
There is SO much in this story and so many angles to examine and discuss it from. One of the things that stuck with me was the all male society. The world that existed in this society felt cold, sterile, and lacking. The rules, the things that were missing without females present, the things that were done in the absence of their presence, each element added another layer to this very unique story.
I think the world building is fantastic but I also feel that the actual story is unique. It takes so many unexpected turns and has layers to it that is unusual in books today. I experienced a lot of ups and downs with it and I will admit that at times I was more than a little disturbed by some of the things that happened.
It was truly fascinating to me and when I took the time to think about it on a deeper level it made me appreciate even more the value of individuality and the uniqueness that each of us brings into a society.
I know this book is classed in Young Adult but I honestly feel like it should be more in New Adult. So I am recommending this for 17+, based on language and situations. If you enjoy a unique story that is full of layers that can be explored on a deeper level you will enjoy this story.
December 18, 2013
My stars : 4.5
I received a ebook copy, in exchange for an honest review.
MY REVIEW
clan movie poster
This is one of those books that come to my hands unexpectedly a sci-fi distopya and a simple summary. I knew little of what to expect, the words cloned society is perhaps the starting point to focus your attention to this book.
How the author would do to develop a society in which all individuals are clones and the story will keep it to the expectation? The name for this answer: Clan 672 aka Twain.
Twain, the imperfect clone in a “perfect world”, the quotes are because as advancements in reading you will notice that, although with clones, society is imperfect. And just a little spark call for individuality Tawain will be questioned within a set of social norms.
These rules and Twain will take you to the core of the creation of this society, which will take you to the sights and unimaginable situations. Managing to a good story until end.
The secondary characters? Even if it is a cloned society you bring some surprises with secondary characters, another extra point, very well done. Fluidly connected with the main character. Making the impossible possible within the story.It has very modern elements, and is clear about the type of genre that is written
The book intrigued me, made me want to know more about this society, is very well developed. Questioning at the same time intriguing, response giving unexpected turns, with a rhythm in a quiet beginning and ending with a great taste, it is these small and simple covers with a synthesis small but inside with a great story waiting to be read.
I want to clarify that I received a copy in ebook format, apparently in paperback format has graphics on it, you can see some viewed as the beginning of this post on the website, if they have the opportunity to acquire it, do it!
It is a huge bonus, well worth worth it.
Blog: All things in the cloud sweet
I received a ebook copy, in exchange for an honest review.
MY REVIEW
clan movie poster
This is one of those books that come to my hands unexpectedly a sci-fi distopya and a simple summary. I knew little of what to expect, the words cloned society is perhaps the starting point to focus your attention to this book.
How the author would do to develop a society in which all individuals are clones and the story will keep it to the expectation? The name for this answer: Clan 672 aka Twain.
Twain, the imperfect clone in a “perfect world”, the quotes are because as advancements in reading you will notice that, although with clones, society is imperfect. And just a little spark call for individuality Tawain will be questioned within a set of social norms.
These rules and Twain will take you to the core of the creation of this society, which will take you to the sights and unimaginable situations. Managing to a good story until end.
The secondary characters? Even if it is a cloned society you bring some surprises with secondary characters, another extra point, very well done. Fluidly connected with the main character. Making the impossible possible within the story.It has very modern elements, and is clear about the type of genre that is written
The book intrigued me, made me want to know more about this society, is very well developed. Questioning at the same time intriguing, response giving unexpected turns, with a rhythm in a quiet beginning and ending with a great taste, it is these small and simple covers with a synthesis small but inside with a great story waiting to be read.
I want to clarify that I received a copy in ebook format, apparently in paperback format has graphics on it, you can see some viewed as the beginning of this post on the website, if they have the opportunity to acquire it, do it!
It is a huge bonus, well worth worth it.
Blog: All things in the cloud sweet
January 13, 2014
*Book source ~ Many thanks to CCB Tours & the author for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
1672 otherwise known as Twain has been locked inside the house for 17 years. He can’t even look out the window. He doesn’t realize he shouldn’t even exist, that his Father, Twigg, has been up to some hinky stuff while doing his job ensuring the health and welfare of the Clan. Clan are supposed to be clones of Father Khume, the only survivor of the Frag invasion on Clag. In 50 years there are nearly 6,000 copies of him, but not all of them are exact.
This book boggles my mind in many ways. First, there is the fact that one man has cloned himself over and over until he has 6,000 copies of himself. That is just plain creepy. Next, Twain has been inside the same building for 17 yrs and hasn’t even been allowed to look out a window. I’d be climbing the walls. Then even though society says they are all about Unity and they are from the same person there are a lot of differences between the clones. Nature vs Nurture seems to play a large part in how they don’t act the same as I would expect. I guess Father Khume has a lot of faces, some of them popping up in clones that don’t have his experience in keeping them submerged and hidden. Khume’s ‘perfect society’ isn’t so perfect after all.
The premise for this book is extremely interesting and it is very well-written. The interaction between the clones was a surprise considering they didn’t act exactly how I thought they would. The first part of the book went along pretty smoothly, but the second half seemed a bit rushed. The ending was a surprise though. I knew something wasn’t quite right about Khume’s story, but I didn’t expect the explanation that was given. Whoa. This is a pretty good sci-fi dystopian about clones and how, no matter what kind of Rules or Laws there are, a human being is a complex organism.
1672 otherwise known as Twain has been locked inside the house for 17 years. He can’t even look out the window. He doesn’t realize he shouldn’t even exist, that his Father, Twigg, has been up to some hinky stuff while doing his job ensuring the health and welfare of the Clan. Clan are supposed to be clones of Father Khume, the only survivor of the Frag invasion on Clag. In 50 years there are nearly 6,000 copies of him, but not all of them are exact.
This book boggles my mind in many ways. First, there is the fact that one man has cloned himself over and over until he has 6,000 copies of himself. That is just plain creepy. Next, Twain has been inside the same building for 17 yrs and hasn’t even been allowed to look out a window. I’d be climbing the walls. Then even though society says they are all about Unity and they are from the same person there are a lot of differences between the clones. Nature vs Nurture seems to play a large part in how they don’t act the same as I would expect. I guess Father Khume has a lot of faces, some of them popping up in clones that don’t have his experience in keeping them submerged and hidden. Khume’s ‘perfect society’ isn’t so perfect after all.
The premise for this book is extremely interesting and it is very well-written. The interaction between the clones was a surprise considering they didn’t act exactly how I thought they would. The first part of the book went along pretty smoothly, but the second half seemed a bit rushed. The ending was a surprise though. I knew something wasn’t quite right about Khume’s story, but I didn’t expect the explanation that was given. Whoa. This is a pretty good sci-fi dystopian about clones and how, no matter what kind of Rules or Laws there are, a human being is a complex organism.
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