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Tentacle and Wing
Twelve-year-old Ada is a Chimera, born with human and animal DNA thanks to a genetic experiment gone wrong. Because being a “kime” is believed to be contagious, she has kept her condition—complete with infrared vision—hidden. But a surprise test outs her, and Ada is shipped off to a quarantined school for kimes.
There Ada meets kids of many different shapes, stripes, and appendages, such as a girl with dragonfly wings and a seal-boy. As she adjusts to her new life, Ada senses that the facility is keeping a secret that could upend everything the world knows about Chimeras. But will someone put a stop to her efforts to uncover the truth?
There Ada meets kids of many different shapes, stripes, and appendages, such as a girl with dragonfly wings and a seal-boy. As she adjusts to her new life, Ada senses that the facility is keeping a secret that could upend everything the world knows about Chimeras. But will someone put a stop to her efforts to uncover the truth?
272 pages, Hardcover
First published October 10, 2017
16 people are currently reading
1159 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Porter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
September 19, 2017
Sarah Porter’s TENTACLE & WING is a deeply moving, viscerally super-charged middle grade sci-fi thriller that had me from the first page. The story is set in the near-future, after a genetic mishap has resulted in children being born as chimeras, with both human and animal DNA. Twelve-year-old Ada has always known she’s different from other kids. She has amazing eyesight that allows her to see through solid objects, a sort of infrared super-vision that turns heat into colors. Her microbiologist dad has trained her to keep her powers secret, since being identified as not totally human (or a chimera) would get her carted off to an isolated prison designed to keep chimeras (or “kimes” as they’re called) separate from normal humans. But when Ada’s secret is discovered, nothing – not even her father – can protect her from being torn away from her family and forced to live with others like herself. Are the kimes really contagious to normal humans, or is it just prejudice and hatred that forces them into isolation? And what is really going on in this newly developing world . . . and why?
This is a remarkably complex story. At first, it seems to be all about our human inability to accept those who are different from ourselves. Ada is mixed race, and even before she’s outed as a kime she’s had to deal endlessly with the question, “What are you?” Before she was identified as a kime, she could always answer that question with, “I’m a human being.” Now she can’t do that. But the normal people’s reaction to the kimes isn’t quite the same as it is to racial or ethnic differences – the kimes are assumed to be contagious, they have animal or insect appendages, they have super-developed senses, and many die at birth. And no one is sure how all this started. Was it really an accident in a genetics lab that set off these genetic mutations? Or is something bigger, even metaphysical happening?
Porter’s characters are fascinating and surprisingly believable. There’s a girl with dragonfly wings who can almost fly, a boy more seal than human who can spend hours under water, and a super attractive boy who seems to be part chameleon (his skin changes with his moods, and it can mimic anything it touches). And all of them seem like real kids, with the same fears and insecurities we all have. The politics of their situation adds additional levels of uncertainty, making it difficult to figure out who the “good guys” and the “bad guys” are. Ada may have kept her secret for years, lying to everyone about what she really saw with her super-human eyes, but the secrets and lies run rampant among the kimes, leaving Ada (and the reader) unsure of whom to trust.
TENTACLE & WING is a surprisingly dark tale, delving deep into the depths of human character. Adults and children alike prove capable of both malicious and benevolent. The lust for power is a driving force, motivating even those who seem like good and caring people. These are characters who struggle to do what’s right while never being quite sure what “right” is. Ultimately, the novel ends with a satisfying conclusion that ties up at least part of Ada’s story while leaving plenty of room for sequels. We learn a lot more about how the kimes came to be, and what their role might be in the future. I was reminded a lot of Octavia Butler’s LILITH’S BROOD series, as well as Margaret Atwood’s ORYK AND CRAKE (both are about genetic manipulation and what it might mean for the future of humanity). And both are very adult books, with very adult themes. TENTACLE & WING is for kids, but it’s challenging and though provoking on a very mature level. Both of my sons would have loved this book when they were in middle school. I highly recommend it.
[Please note: I was provided an Advance Reading Copy of this novel free of charge; the opinions expressed here are my own.]
This is a remarkably complex story. At first, it seems to be all about our human inability to accept those who are different from ourselves. Ada is mixed race, and even before she’s outed as a kime she’s had to deal endlessly with the question, “What are you?” Before she was identified as a kime, she could always answer that question with, “I’m a human being.” Now she can’t do that. But the normal people’s reaction to the kimes isn’t quite the same as it is to racial or ethnic differences – the kimes are assumed to be contagious, they have animal or insect appendages, they have super-developed senses, and many die at birth. And no one is sure how all this started. Was it really an accident in a genetics lab that set off these genetic mutations? Or is something bigger, even metaphysical happening?
Porter’s characters are fascinating and surprisingly believable. There’s a girl with dragonfly wings who can almost fly, a boy more seal than human who can spend hours under water, and a super attractive boy who seems to be part chameleon (his skin changes with his moods, and it can mimic anything it touches). And all of them seem like real kids, with the same fears and insecurities we all have. The politics of their situation adds additional levels of uncertainty, making it difficult to figure out who the “good guys” and the “bad guys” are. Ada may have kept her secret for years, lying to everyone about what she really saw with her super-human eyes, but the secrets and lies run rampant among the kimes, leaving Ada (and the reader) unsure of whom to trust.
TENTACLE & WING is a surprisingly dark tale, delving deep into the depths of human character. Adults and children alike prove capable of both malicious and benevolent. The lust for power is a driving force, motivating even those who seem like good and caring people. These are characters who struggle to do what’s right while never being quite sure what “right” is. Ultimately, the novel ends with a satisfying conclusion that ties up at least part of Ada’s story while leaving plenty of room for sequels. We learn a lot more about how the kimes came to be, and what their role might be in the future. I was reminded a lot of Octavia Butler’s LILITH’S BROOD series, as well as Margaret Atwood’s ORYK AND CRAKE (both are about genetic manipulation and what it might mean for the future of humanity). And both are very adult books, with very adult themes. TENTACLE & WING is for kids, but it’s challenging and though provoking on a very mature level. Both of my sons would have loved this book when they were in middle school. I highly recommend it.
[Please note: I was provided an Advance Reading Copy of this novel free of charge; the opinions expressed here are my own.]
September 20, 2020
3.5 stars 🌟 ✨
Would love to see more from this world 🌎
The idea behind it is very intriguing and I hope the author explores it more down the line. I would love to see more from these characters and see what happens with them and the society in it.
It is a nicely done tale.
Would love to see more from this world 🌎
The idea behind it is very intriguing and I hope the author explores it more down the line. I would love to see more from these characters and see what happens with them and the society in it.
It is a nicely done tale.
February 5, 2018
Rating: 10 out of 10
Parental rating: PG- This is actual juvenile fiction, as opposed to some of the inappropriate trash that gets called 'young adult'. No cursing, little violence, and pretty much no real violence. Ideal for 4th through 8th graders, though I would recommend it to adults as well.
Synopsis:
In the near future, a 'virus' is accidentally released into the air above Long Is a by a genetics lab. Soon after, chimeras, or kimes for short, start to be born all over the island. These babies have plenty of human DNA, but not all. A kime could have anything from seal flippers, to jellyfish tentacles, to dragonfly wings and are believed by normal humans to be deadly contagious.
Ada has known she was a chimera ever since she found that others couldn't see through solid objects and in the dark as a child, but has managed to keep her infrared vision hidden from the authorities. However, when an underhanded test reveals her, she is sent to an island prison where others like her are kept and as she tries to fit in she discovers that both humans and chimeras keep secrets, enemies aren't the only ones who lie, and even kids can be willing to kill.
The Good:
Deep-thinking - This book covers incredible and important thoughts such as human prejudice against people that are different and what people are willing to do for power.
Characters- Every single character had intricate emotions, thought, beliefs, and wants.
There were a couple that I wanted to be friends with (particularly Ada); a few I wanted to hug; and one or two that I wanted to furiously lecture about the importance of every life, the dangers of ambition, and just morality in general.
World- The setting is amazing, and I love reading about the different kimes.
Emotions- Perhaps the best part is how invested the writing makes you feel.. By page thirty, I felt deeply connected to Ada, and actually cried when they sent her to the island. And this is not not normal for me. With most books, I might cry when my favorite character dies. That's it.The
The Bad:
Secrets- Ada, and, by extension, the reader, is in the dark about pretty much everything for a long time. This is both a good thing and a bad thing, as it creates a really amazing mood throughout the book, but it can get a little annoying.
Humans- I do wish we saw more regular humans, but I am really just nitpicking here. We didn't get a ton of interaction with normals, but what was there was superbly don and helped us understand how both sides thought.
Sequel- No, seriously. Where's the sequel? We neeeed one.
Parental rating: PG- This is actual juvenile fiction, as opposed to some of the inappropriate trash that gets called 'young adult'. No cursing, little violence, and pretty much no real violence. Ideal for 4th through 8th graders, though I would recommend it to adults as well.
Synopsis:
In the near future, a 'virus' is accidentally released into the air above Long Is a by a genetics lab. Soon after, chimeras, or kimes for short, start to be born all over the island. These babies have plenty of human DNA, but not all. A kime could have anything from seal flippers, to jellyfish tentacles, to dragonfly wings and are believed by normal humans to be deadly contagious.
Ada has known she was a chimera ever since she found that others couldn't see through solid objects and in the dark as a child, but has managed to keep her infrared vision hidden from the authorities. However, when an underhanded test reveals her, she is sent to an island prison where others like her are kept and as she tries to fit in she discovers that both humans and chimeras keep secrets, enemies aren't the only ones who lie, and even kids can be willing to kill.
The Good:
Deep-thinking - This book covers incredible and important thoughts such as human prejudice against people that are different and what people are willing to do for power.
Characters- Every single character had intricate emotions, thought, beliefs, and wants.
There were a couple that I wanted to be friends with (particularly Ada); a few I wanted to hug; and one or two that I wanted to furiously lecture about the importance of every life, the dangers of ambition, and just morality in general.
World- The setting is amazing, and I love reading about the different kimes.
Emotions- Perhaps the best part is how invested the writing makes you feel.. By page thirty, I felt deeply connected to Ada, and actually cried when they sent her to the island. And this is not not normal for me. With most books, I might cry when my favorite character dies. That's it.The
The Bad:
Secrets- Ada, and, by extension, the reader, is in the dark about pretty much everything for a long time. This is both a good thing and a bad thing, as it creates a really amazing mood throughout the book, but it can get a little annoying.
Humans- I do wish we saw more regular humans, but I am really just nitpicking here. We didn't get a ton of interaction with normals, but what was there was superbly don and helped us understand how both sides thought.
Sequel- No, seriously. Where's the sequel? We neeeed one.
August 29, 2017
Based on the cover material, i was expecting a fairly light-weight standard early-YA 'being different isn't bad' story, but with tentacles and wings. And it does start out pretty low-key, an introduction to our main character, her family, her world. But it turns darker and darker as it goes, from catastrophic climate change to racism to bigotry, and that's even before you get to the betrayals, the lies, and the attempted murder.
Ada is a bit of a blank slate as characters go, i wish she had more personality, but that's really all i can say is bad about this book. Secondary characters are complex and developed, with motivations and conflicts of their own.
The book wraps up nicely, but with plenty of unanswered questions, so i fully expect a sequel. And i will wait impatiently for it.
Ada is a bit of a blank slate as characters go, i wish she had more personality, but that's really all i can say is bad about this book. Secondary characters are complex and developed, with motivations and conflicts of their own.
The book wraps up nicely, but with plenty of unanswered questions, so i fully expect a sequel. And i will wait impatiently for it.
December 17, 2017
This book is really charming but creepy as well. I loved style,characters (although not all of them,you'll see why) and I loved the world building. And even though it felt like some kind of prison to Ada I liked the home where kids live. It reminded me to house from Miss Peregrine's home for peculiar children. All in all,if you love a good story that contains children who are extraordinary with a pinch of friendship and love,then this is the book for you. You will dive right into it and have a good adventure with Ada. And other children who have some different body parts from you. Like tentacles and wings. But you'll see. They are just like you.
To read the whole review go to pobesnelabubamara.blogspot.rs :)
To read the whole review go to pobesnelabubamara.blogspot.rs :)
November 24, 2025
I chose this book purely for vanity reasons- #1 I needed a book with a tentacle on the cover for a book challenge prompt. & #2 the cover is so PRETTY 😍
A twelve year old girl Ada grows up keeping a secret- that she is a chimera (part animal and part human) because of a genetic experiment gone wrong. She has infrared vision but can’t tell anyone, not even her own mother, for fear that she will be sent away to a quarantined school for “kimes” AKA freaks of nature. A surprise DNA test exposes her and she is forced to go to the Kimes School, that is more of a prison for all sorts of kids with fins, fur, wings, spider eyes, and color changing skin. While there, Ada discovers a secret that will change everything.
What to expect:
🐙 found family
🪰 not sure who to trust
🦭 tons of hybrid animal/humans
🦎 Miss Peregrines Home for Peculiar Children vibes minus the time loop but with more science 🧬 involved (not too complicated as it is a middle grade book)
Overall a fun story with some great twists (one twist was a tad wonky in my opinion) but an easy unique read you can knock out in a day or weekend.
A twelve year old girl Ada grows up keeping a secret- that she is a chimera (part animal and part human) because of a genetic experiment gone wrong. She has infrared vision but can’t tell anyone, not even her own mother, for fear that she will be sent away to a quarantined school for “kimes” AKA freaks of nature. A surprise DNA test exposes her and she is forced to go to the Kimes School, that is more of a prison for all sorts of kids with fins, fur, wings, spider eyes, and color changing skin. While there, Ada discovers a secret that will change everything.
What to expect:
🐙 found family
🪰 not sure who to trust
🦭 tons of hybrid animal/humans
🦎 Miss Peregrines Home for Peculiar Children vibes minus the time loop but with more science 🧬 involved (not too complicated as it is a middle grade book)
Overall a fun story with some great twists (one twist was a tad wonky in my opinion) but an easy unique read you can knock out in a day or weekend.
September 2, 2025
All her life, Ada has been told to hide the fact that she has special abilities. Her ability to see beyond the visible spectrum means that she's a "kime," with genetic adaptations that make her not fully human. When she is discovered and sent away to a government-run home for kimes, she learns that some of the things she's been taught are not true -- and that everyone has their secrets.
This was a really strong read, especially for those who like stories about homes or schools for kids with different powers. I liked how complex all of the characters and their motivations were. I did sometimes think that I would have liked a little more setup for subsequent actions -- things were moving fast, and I felt like I was missing stuff. That could, of course, have more to do with me that with the book. At any rate, I enjoyed it very much, and would recommend it.
This was a really strong read, especially for those who like stories about homes or schools for kids with different powers. I liked how complex all of the characters and their motivations were. I did sometimes think that I would have liked a little more setup for subsequent actions -- things were moving fast, and I felt like I was missing stuff. That could, of course, have more to do with me that with the book. At any rate, I enjoyed it very much, and would recommend it.
October 20, 2017
First thing about this novel to grab my attention was the very creative book cover. I noticed events in the novel happen one after the other not much filler story in the novel keeps you interested which is great as Middle school kids get distracted quite easily. For someone as myself who is not in middle school I find it a very easy fast fun read. The story starts off with Ada realising she's not quite all human and gets thrown into a "secured" home for children like her... What adventure awaits her and what will she learn about people like her.... I recommend you read the novel so you to can find out.
March 2, 2018
Porter, Sarah Tentacle & Wing, 263 pages. Houghton Mifflin, 2017. $17. Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG.
Ada’s father taught her from when she was little to never talk to anyone about how she sees the world – because she doesn’t see it the way everyone else does. Because her difference is hidden, unlike other kids with wings, or tentacles, or other oddities, she has remained hidden – until now. A DNA test has revealed her difference and now she has been dragged away with to live with the other chimeras, or kimes. But they don’t want her either. While some are welcoming, the heads of the secluded group are sure that she’s a spy. And in order to keep their secrets, they are willing to get her out of their way permanently. But Ada’s curious nature leads her to more important discoveries – ones that can effect kimes and humans alike.
Ada’s world is even darker than I expected, what with the kimes deciding to hate her on sight and the danger you would expect from the hatred of the normals. But the world is rich in variety and description and I definitely wanted to know what was going to happen. And I want to know what is going to happen in the (I hope) next book, too.
EL, MS - ADVISABLE. Cindy, Library Teacher
http://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018/...
Ada’s father taught her from when she was little to never talk to anyone about how she sees the world – because she doesn’t see it the way everyone else does. Because her difference is hidden, unlike other kids with wings, or tentacles, or other oddities, she has remained hidden – until now. A DNA test has revealed her difference and now she has been dragged away with to live with the other chimeras, or kimes. But they don’t want her either. While some are welcoming, the heads of the secluded group are sure that she’s a spy. And in order to keep their secrets, they are willing to get her out of their way permanently. But Ada’s curious nature leads her to more important discoveries – ones that can effect kimes and humans alike.
Ada’s world is even darker than I expected, what with the kimes deciding to hate her on sight and the danger you would expect from the hatred of the normals. But the world is rich in variety and description and I definitely wanted to know what was going to happen. And I want to know what is going to happen in the (I hope) next book, too.
EL, MS - ADVISABLE. Cindy, Library Teacher
http://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018/...
February 27, 2018
Ada has known for most of her life that she is a kine. A human-animal hybrid from an unknown source. She looks fully human, though, and this allows her to "pass". Her father teaches her to lie about how things look to her because her hidden hybrid gift is infrared vision. Most kines (chimera) have visible mutations--wings, tentacles, flippers, and such. Humans fear, persecute, and isolate kimes. When a test reveals Ada's true nature she is relieved to think that she will no longer have to conceal her real self. But when she arrives at the kime facility she discovers that humans are not the only ones with prejudices. Does she look too human? Can she be trusted? Can she trust the other kimes, and what do they want her to do with her special ability? Ada discovers an unexpected sister and a way to be her own person, regardless of everyone else.
Ada's character and the theme of this book push it from good to great. Ada has never been accepted for herself, even her mother is a crusader against the kimes and pushes for legislation to protect the human species from them, but Ada herself is very loving, very intelligent, very accepting, and quite wise. Because of her background she is able to see the faults on both sides and to love both sides without prejudice, but with a decided opinion of what is right and what is wrong. She is deeply compassionate and wants very badly to be accepted unconditionally by someone. She sees prejudice for what it is, hurtful and dangerous, regardless of who is pushing it on whom. Her vision is an especially appropriate mutation since she is helping everyone, including the reader, to see more clearly when looking at someone else. This is an outstanding book to see prejudice for what it is.
Ada's character and the theme of this book push it from good to great. Ada has never been accepted for herself, even her mother is a crusader against the kimes and pushes for legislation to protect the human species from them, but Ada herself is very loving, very intelligent, very accepting, and quite wise. Because of her background she is able to see the faults on both sides and to love both sides without prejudice, but with a decided opinion of what is right and what is wrong. She is deeply compassionate and wants very badly to be accepted unconditionally by someone. She sees prejudice for what it is, hurtful and dangerous, regardless of who is pushing it on whom. Her vision is an especially appropriate mutation since she is helping everyone, including the reader, to see more clearly when looking at someone else. This is an outstanding book to see prejudice for what it is.
April 1, 2018
This was an interesting read, and touched superficially on the question of what makes us human. Unfortunately, it fell apart halfway, and really began to unravel at the end, where some rather large plot points were forced into too-short a span. Characters lost nuance and just separated into villain or ally.
The science didn't make a lot of sense either, and I was unclear what "the blue" was, since it seemed godlike but helpless at the same time. Both Ms Stuart and Ada's father obviously know about the blue, but how? And how is Ms Stuart trying to replicate the chimera effect when they don't know what caused it to begin with, and are living in a fairly Spartan facility without the right equipment for complex experiments? What did Ada's dad expect her to accomplish, and why did he have to turn out to be a manipulative jerk this whole time (and yet Ada is thinking she will forgive and trust him again someday?)? Why would he even think communicating his plans via email would be secure? Wouldn't the normals turn on him after they realized he lied and got them to try to rescue a chimera? Why doesn't Ms Stuart realize that since Ada has never used the computer, she can't have read the emails earlier, and why doesn't Gabriel open the dumb letter himself instead of getting Ophelia to do his dirty work? I'm SO glad Ms Stuart isn't willing to kill an innocent 12 year old girl, but it was totally ok to break her neck when she was a spy. Why is Soraya randomly a twin to Ada despite being mostly giant squid? What kind of stupid idea is it that chimeras are humanity's insurance if we get wiped out?! Why would they need human like beings around? And if a godlike creature can just build creatures out of parts borrowed from anything, they should be able to build creatures that are better adapted instead of mixed up in weird and not always useful ways. Gabriel and Ms Stuart had such a bad plan (let's infect the whole world!!), and it was so disappointing to see a potentially complicated character turn into a bratty, selfish villain. I can't believe Dr Jacoway's death was just so ignoble and then glossed over. And why stay among people that have betrayed and tried to kill you? SO MANY ISSUES.
As crappy as I think people can be, I also strongly doubt that society would unanimously treat the chimeras this way. It's not like they appeared suddenly, they were born. You'd get some factions that would want to protect them (because they aren't responsible for their differences), and I would expect at least an underground effort where they smuggle the kids out. You'd also get some people that would want to study them (and since they're not treating them as human, why would they balk at that?) and others that would be interested in some of the more useful abilities.
This was an interesting take on an evolving world, but it just had some major logical holes.
The science didn't make a lot of sense either, and I was unclear what "the blue" was, since it seemed godlike but helpless at the same time. Both Ms Stuart and Ada's father obviously know about the blue, but how? And how is Ms Stuart trying to replicate the chimera effect when they don't know what caused it to begin with, and are living in a fairly Spartan facility without the right equipment for complex experiments? What did Ada's dad expect her to accomplish, and why did he have to turn out to be a manipulative jerk this whole time (and yet Ada is thinking she will forgive and trust him again someday?)? Why would he even think communicating his plans via email would be secure? Wouldn't the normals turn on him after they realized he lied and got them to try to rescue a chimera? Why doesn't Ms Stuart realize that since Ada has never used the computer, she can't have read the emails earlier, and why doesn't Gabriel open the dumb letter himself instead of getting Ophelia to do his dirty work? I'm SO glad Ms Stuart isn't willing to kill an innocent 12 year old girl, but it was totally ok to break her neck when she was a spy. Why is Soraya randomly a twin to Ada despite being mostly giant squid? What kind of stupid idea is it that chimeras are humanity's insurance if we get wiped out?! Why would they need human like beings around? And if a godlike creature can just build creatures out of parts borrowed from anything, they should be able to build creatures that are better adapted instead of mixed up in weird and not always useful ways. Gabriel and Ms Stuart had such a bad plan (let's infect the whole world!!), and it was so disappointing to see a potentially complicated character turn into a bratty, selfish villain. I can't believe Dr Jacoway's death was just so ignoble and then glossed over. And why stay among people that have betrayed and tried to kill you? SO MANY ISSUES.
As crappy as I think people can be, I also strongly doubt that society would unanimously treat the chimeras this way. It's not like they appeared suddenly, they were born. You'd get some factions that would want to protect them (because they aren't responsible for their differences), and I would expect at least an underground effort where they smuggle the kids out. You'd also get some people that would want to study them (and since they're not treating them as human, why would they balk at that?) and others that would be interested in some of the more useful abilities.
This was an interesting take on an evolving world, but it just had some major logical holes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2017
In ‘Tentacle and Wing” an imaginative middle school sci-fi thriller the whole of South Fork, Long Island has been quarantined because babies with human and animal DNA are being born thanks to a generic experiment gone wrong. Because being a “kime” is thought to be contagious, and each considered a monster by the populace, any parent harboring a chimera can be sentenced to five years in prison.
In an atmosphere of fear and hatred twelve-year-old Ada Lahey the daughter of a microbiologist who can see things others can’t has been sheltered and taught to act normal only to fail a blood test at her school and shipped off to Sag Habour to an isolated school for kimes. There she meets Gabriel, a boy whose skin reflects the colors and shapes of the world around him; Ophelia a girl with dragonfly wings who can hover; and Rowan, a seal-boy. But the school is far from being a refuge for kimes as its gates are plagued periodically by mobs of people wanting to see the freaks, as well as hidden secrets within which are proving to be a danger to Ada’s safety.
Fast-paced Sarah Porter blends mystery, danger and adventure into a plot where the “villains” may not be just the people trying to break down the gates to the facility, but within its own walls. In a multifaceted story filled with twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat the action never stops as intensity and suspense build especially with Ada’s discovery of a mysterious sentient blue light, an underground cavern and an enormous creature who she suspects wants to kill her.
Masterfully the author tackles themes like racism, discrimination, and a changing global environment in a dark setting that breeds betrayal, lies and attempted murder. Yet the plot will enthrall middle schoolers and young teens who love strange, superpowered beings in a changing world.
Bringing the story to life are characters that are complex, realistic and diverse like Ada Lahey a musically talented young girl who for years has hidden her power but when it’s revealed, sacrifices her well-being to save her parents and unborn sister or brother. Kind, determined and empathetic she makes friends with Rowan a boy born with flippers and fur who’s considerate, open and honest; Ophelia her secretive and disloyal roommate; and overly confident and sulky Marley who believes she’s totally human. Darkly emotional, reckless and cruel is Gabriel stamped as “the violent child” while the Administrator Miss Stuart who seems warm and loving masks a calculating, power-hungry side.
With mystery and adventure wrapped up in a sci-fi thrill ride, “Tentacle and Wing” is a novel that will keep youngsters captivated for hours. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope that we’ll see more of Ada and her friends in future.
In an atmosphere of fear and hatred twelve-year-old Ada Lahey the daughter of a microbiologist who can see things others can’t has been sheltered and taught to act normal only to fail a blood test at her school and shipped off to Sag Habour to an isolated school for kimes. There she meets Gabriel, a boy whose skin reflects the colors and shapes of the world around him; Ophelia a girl with dragonfly wings who can hover; and Rowan, a seal-boy. But the school is far from being a refuge for kimes as its gates are plagued periodically by mobs of people wanting to see the freaks, as well as hidden secrets within which are proving to be a danger to Ada’s safety.
Fast-paced Sarah Porter blends mystery, danger and adventure into a plot where the “villains” may not be just the people trying to break down the gates to the facility, but within its own walls. In a multifaceted story filled with twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat the action never stops as intensity and suspense build especially with Ada’s discovery of a mysterious sentient blue light, an underground cavern and an enormous creature who she suspects wants to kill her.
Masterfully the author tackles themes like racism, discrimination, and a changing global environment in a dark setting that breeds betrayal, lies and attempted murder. Yet the plot will enthrall middle schoolers and young teens who love strange, superpowered beings in a changing world.
Bringing the story to life are characters that are complex, realistic and diverse like Ada Lahey a musically talented young girl who for years has hidden her power but when it’s revealed, sacrifices her well-being to save her parents and unborn sister or brother. Kind, determined and empathetic she makes friends with Rowan a boy born with flippers and fur who’s considerate, open and honest; Ophelia her secretive and disloyal roommate; and overly confident and sulky Marley who believes she’s totally human. Darkly emotional, reckless and cruel is Gabriel stamped as “the violent child” while the Administrator Miss Stuart who seems warm and loving masks a calculating, power-hungry side.
With mystery and adventure wrapped up in a sci-fi thrill ride, “Tentacle and Wing” is a novel that will keep youngsters captivated for hours. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope that we’ll see more of Ada and her friends in future.
October 12, 2017
Thank you to HMH Kids for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
I have read a couple of Sarah Porter novels before this one, and I'd have to say I liked TENTACLE & WING the best! For a YA fantasy novel this was surprisingly complex and a great lighter suspense (geared towards middle grade).
This is set in the near future. After a genetic mishap, there are some children being born as chimeras - so they have both human and animal DNA. The story focuses on 12 year old Ada. Growing up she has always known she was different that the other kids around her. Her eyesight was so incredible, she could see through solid objects and even see in infrared which turned heat into colors. Since she can remember, her dad has always told her to keep her powers a secret from the other kids, otherwise if she was discovered as a chimera then she'd be taken away to be isolated from the normal human population. When her powers are discovered, Ada is ripped away from her home, family, and friends to go live in a facility with other chimeras, or kimes.
Considering this is a YA book that is geared towards middle school age kids I was very surprised at how complex the characters were and the subject that Porter tackled. It's not a heavy read by any means, but having a story about learning to live with and accept people's differences is very topical right now. Only the chimeras and normal humans aren't dealing with race or ethnicity, they are dealing with the stigma and belief that the chimeras are contagious. It's phenomena no one can really figure out - why were these kids born with animal DNA mixed in? Are they actually contagious?
I loved the diverse characters that Ada meets. We meet a girl with dragonfly wings who is still working on being able to fly, a boy that is mostly seal and can spend hours underwater, and then a young man that seemed to more of a chameleon than shape-shifter - he could change colors based on mood or by mimicking what he touches. Despite their physical differences, these kids felt very real and believable in their emotions and struggles.
Overall, if you want a unique YA fantasy premise with memorable characters, then this is a good one to pick up! If you typically aren't a fan of the YA genre, then this might not be for you. I'm not one to go out of my way to pick up YA novels, but I was pleasantly surprised with TENTACLE & WING.
I give this 4/5 stars!
I have read a couple of Sarah Porter novels before this one, and I'd have to say I liked TENTACLE & WING the best! For a YA fantasy novel this was surprisingly complex and a great lighter suspense (geared towards middle grade).
This is set in the near future. After a genetic mishap, there are some children being born as chimeras - so they have both human and animal DNA. The story focuses on 12 year old Ada. Growing up she has always known she was different that the other kids around her. Her eyesight was so incredible, she could see through solid objects and even see in infrared which turned heat into colors. Since she can remember, her dad has always told her to keep her powers a secret from the other kids, otherwise if she was discovered as a chimera then she'd be taken away to be isolated from the normal human population. When her powers are discovered, Ada is ripped away from her home, family, and friends to go live in a facility with other chimeras, or kimes.
Considering this is a YA book that is geared towards middle school age kids I was very surprised at how complex the characters were and the subject that Porter tackled. It's not a heavy read by any means, but having a story about learning to live with and accept people's differences is very topical right now. Only the chimeras and normal humans aren't dealing with race or ethnicity, they are dealing with the stigma and belief that the chimeras are contagious. It's phenomena no one can really figure out - why were these kids born with animal DNA mixed in? Are they actually contagious?
I loved the diverse characters that Ada meets. We meet a girl with dragonfly wings who is still working on being able to fly, a boy that is mostly seal and can spend hours underwater, and then a young man that seemed to more of a chameleon than shape-shifter - he could change colors based on mood or by mimicking what he touches. Despite their physical differences, these kids felt very real and believable in their emotions and struggles.
Overall, if you want a unique YA fantasy premise with memorable characters, then this is a good one to pick up! If you typically aren't a fan of the YA genre, then this might not be for you. I'm not one to go out of my way to pick up YA novels, but I was pleasantly surprised with TENTACLE & WING.
I give this 4/5 stars!
November 25, 2023
I think that this was a good book, but not for me, unfortunately. The concept was interesting and I liked some of the characters, but I just didn’t feel fully immersed while I was reading it. I did think that the ending of this book was pretty strong and there were some interesting plot twists.
November 5, 2017
Ada learned at a young age that she does not see the world as humans do. Ada is a kime - a Chimera born with a combination of human and animal DNA. Most kimes are easy to spot as they have things such as wings, fur, tentacles, or other animal attributes. But Ada looks 100% human on the outside. The only ability she has is to see things that are invisible to humans and infrared vision. Her father knows about her abilities but has been helping her keep them covered up because kimes are taken to a prison-like place in order to keep them separated from the rest of society. But a surprise test reveals Ada's true nature and she is taken to the facility. Once there, she realizes that the other kimes are more like her than she thought and that someone on the island is working to change the public's perception of them, no matter the cost.
I was wrapped up in the book at the beginning with the hidden talents and the secret DNA test which rips Ada from her family, but not too much further in I began to have issues. The book is solidly meant for middle grades so I didn't expect great depth, but I felt like some important information was skipped over in the storytelling. For instance, I don't think it was established why, almost immediately, Ms. Stuart was so set against Ada and seemed to intend her harm. Nor was Gabriel's animosity fully explained. It all just came across to me as disjointed and I didn't care enough about anyone to get invested in the story. Finally, the ending was wrapped up too easily. Oh, sure, there was a big showdown but the reversal of the bad guys' feelings was too swift as well as Ada's decision to either stay on the island or go.
I was wrapped up in the book at the beginning with the hidden talents and the secret DNA test which rips Ada from her family, but not too much further in I began to have issues. The book is solidly meant for middle grades so I didn't expect great depth, but I felt like some important information was skipped over in the storytelling. For instance, I don't think it was established why, almost immediately, Ms. Stuart was so set against Ada and seemed to intend her harm. Nor was Gabriel's animosity fully explained. It all just came across to me as disjointed and I didn't care enough about anyone to get invested in the story. Finally, the ending was wrapped up too easily. Oh, sure, there was a big showdown but the reversal of the bad guys' feelings was too swift as well as Ada's decision to either stay on the island or go.
May 27, 2019
strictly my opinion, but i don't think this is a Middle Grade book at all... that's not to say it's bad, just kinda really not for that age group... probably more YA, considering the things that happen and many of the narrative passages... some rather gruesome, teen/not-OK-for-children stuff... flamethrowers, murder, mob violence? yeesh! i think the author had a great idea - what makes us human? - but just didn't flesh it out all that effectively, and DEFINITELY was not able to write for the target age group in any way, shape, or form... i didn't really find out enough about the characters to truly care about them, and i think the complicated way many of the main characters were drawn was entirely too advanced for a MG audience... lots of duplicity and outright nastiness... the machinations of the adults was way over the top, but also entirely too superficial... it's like you're dumped into a world expected to know lots of stuff about it, and throughout the book very little of it is ever truly explained or understood... nowhere near enough about the chimeras, hardly any descriptions of most of them, and no real relationship building between them either... lots of mistrust and lying and subterfuge, which is hardly the vocabulary one should use for a middle grade book, right? honestly, the adults were absolutely horrible people, and some of the chimeras were rather awful too... i found this book way too complex and mature in its themes, and the story itself was thin to the point of transparency... could have been fabulously cute, fun, and a great way to learn about differences and such (come on, monster-beasty-creatures?!?!?), but none of that happened... bummer.
January 27, 2018
Meh. This book was as nonsensical as its cover is beautiful. It's a middle grade, but has the tone and wording of a YA. As things were revealed they weren't believable. Nothing was really explained well and none of the characters were ever stable. Gabe went from simply unlikable to completely evil in the span of like 20 pages, and for no good reason. I have tons of complaints, but I'll stop here. Super disappointed by this book.
July 21, 2017
Though Ada seems young at the beginning of this story, she grows up quickly among the kimes--short for chimera. They are under quarantine on Long Island but something is not quite right, as you might expect. It actually turns out there are some really sinister forces at work, and they aren't glossed over or sinister for 12-year-olds--they are really nasty and this book doesn't shy away from the ugliness of discrimination, fear and fearmongering. Definitely recommend for those sci fi kids who often just read adult books to get them through. The ending does pull back a little and allow for some comfort, but not as much as you might think in a middle grade novel.
October 1, 2017
Excellent! Loved the similarities between the X-Men kids and these characters. Wonderful descriptions of the various chimeras. The only thing that really bothered me was the lack of adults who were the "good guys." The only one that was truly looking out for the kids was the doctor who had lost his mind.
June 1, 2021
Absolutely genius! Sarah Porter's writing never disappoints, but this book in particular is so impressive. I have listed some thoughts below which are a bit disorganized but
convey my general impressions.
First of all, I'm an adult reader, and I often read books that my daughter is interested in, but very few middle grade books--nearly none except Harry Potter of course--really hold my attention on the same level that books geared for YA readers and adult readers do. But this book definitely did! I sat down to read it at about 5pm & found that I just couldn't stop, so I finished it all in one sitting before going to bed. From page 1, the writing is incredibly compelling--but not merely suspenseful--it's gorgeous & imagistic without ever becoming purple, it's original & surprising, it's thoughtful & relevant, and as soon as I finished this book, I went online to order every single book I could find by Sarah Porter.
I would describe myself as a literary reader (most of the time). I do read the occasional bestselling series, but I have eclectic taste, and all my degrees are in literature & writing. So, I can be a picky reader. But wow, I am utterly blown away by the sheer brilliance of this novel for middle grade readers. It's completely unlike any book I have ever read before--it's original, it's edge-of-your-seat suspenseful, & it's beautiful.
I dearly hope that teachers across America begin to use this book in the classroom immediately because it is such a truly excellent novel for discussions about discrimination--yet, and this is so important with this younger age group, it never sounds as though it's trying to preach. It just simply paints the very real picture of the horror that children have to live with when they are dealing with the day to day hate they encounter from being othered. Because Porter accomplishes this portrait through fantastical chimera children (instead of race or gender differences i.e.), it really frees younger readers up to be able to more freely examine the connections they make as they read.
As thoughtful & meaningful as this book is, I should also note that it's just plain fun to read! Porter's alternative world in this novel is generated flawlessly--so quickly & naturally--and it's one that is very easy for younger readers to understand & grasp. The plot opens with a scene in which the main protagonist, Ada, and her father discuss how she sees colors differently from other people & why she needs to keep her abilities secret (b/c she sees more than most people as she has chimera vision). As the plot unfolds & Ada's secret is discovered, it's easy for readers to fall in love with Ada. She's a strong, intelligent character, but Porter conveys her pain & loneliness over her "secret" perfectly.
One more comment I want to make is how impressed I am with the dialogue throughout the novel. Having read more than my fair share of middle grade books (as I try to read everything my daughter reads, and she is quite the avid reader) I can say truthfully that precious few authors write children's dialogue well--their voices, especially in conversation with one another, rarely sound believable to me. I even cringed over a lot of the dialogue in Harry Potter, to be honest. But my goodness, Sarah Porter writes children's voices so well that she should get a literary award for that alone! The dialogue here is perfect! I almost wonder if it was something she researched before writing this book. My daughter even made the comment that "this book just feels so real." (She, at age 10, read this book in 2 days, by the way, and that is high praise from a 4th grader).
Overall, I sincerely have never been more impressed with a middle grade novel. If you are looking for a great book to read, get a copy immediately. If you are a parent, and wish your child read more books of actual substance, believe me, this is one they will finish happily! I honestly think it should be required reading--not only will kids love reading it, but it's actually a very valuable tool in broaching relevant topics with them. I wish I could give it 6 stars. How in the world did this novel not win a Newbery Award? It was robbed.
convey my general impressions.
First of all, I'm an adult reader, and I often read books that my daughter is interested in, but very few middle grade books--nearly none except Harry Potter of course--really hold my attention on the same level that books geared for YA readers and adult readers do. But this book definitely did! I sat down to read it at about 5pm & found that I just couldn't stop, so I finished it all in one sitting before going to bed. From page 1, the writing is incredibly compelling--but not merely suspenseful--it's gorgeous & imagistic without ever becoming purple, it's original & surprising, it's thoughtful & relevant, and as soon as I finished this book, I went online to order every single book I could find by Sarah Porter.
I would describe myself as a literary reader (most of the time). I do read the occasional bestselling series, but I have eclectic taste, and all my degrees are in literature & writing. So, I can be a picky reader. But wow, I am utterly blown away by the sheer brilliance of this novel for middle grade readers. It's completely unlike any book I have ever read before--it's original, it's edge-of-your-seat suspenseful, & it's beautiful.
I dearly hope that teachers across America begin to use this book in the classroom immediately because it is such a truly excellent novel for discussions about discrimination--yet, and this is so important with this younger age group, it never sounds as though it's trying to preach. It just simply paints the very real picture of the horror that children have to live with when they are dealing with the day to day hate they encounter from being othered. Because Porter accomplishes this portrait through fantastical chimera children (instead of race or gender differences i.e.), it really frees younger readers up to be able to more freely examine the connections they make as they read.
As thoughtful & meaningful as this book is, I should also note that it's just plain fun to read! Porter's alternative world in this novel is generated flawlessly--so quickly & naturally--and it's one that is very easy for younger readers to understand & grasp. The plot opens with a scene in which the main protagonist, Ada, and her father discuss how she sees colors differently from other people & why she needs to keep her abilities secret (b/c she sees more than most people as she has chimera vision). As the plot unfolds & Ada's secret is discovered, it's easy for readers to fall in love with Ada. She's a strong, intelligent character, but Porter conveys her pain & loneliness over her "secret" perfectly.
One more comment I want to make is how impressed I am with the dialogue throughout the novel. Having read more than my fair share of middle grade books (as I try to read everything my daughter reads, and she is quite the avid reader) I can say truthfully that precious few authors write children's dialogue well--their voices, especially in conversation with one another, rarely sound believable to me. I even cringed over a lot of the dialogue in Harry Potter, to be honest. But my goodness, Sarah Porter writes children's voices so well that she should get a literary award for that alone! The dialogue here is perfect! I almost wonder if it was something she researched before writing this book. My daughter even made the comment that "this book just feels so real." (She, at age 10, read this book in 2 days, by the way, and that is high praise from a 4th grader).
Overall, I sincerely have never been more impressed with a middle grade novel. If you are looking for a great book to read, get a copy immediately. If you are a parent, and wish your child read more books of actual substance, believe me, this is one they will finish happily! I honestly think it should be required reading--not only will kids love reading it, but it's actually a very valuable tool in broaching relevant topics with them. I wish I could give it 6 stars. How in the world did this novel not win a Newbery Award? It was robbed.
January 12, 2021
✨ Quill's thoughts...
I know how to keep a secret. I know how to lie better than anybody.
Ada thinks the one bright spot in being sent away to a remote island where all kime's, children born with part human and part animal DNA, are supposed to be held in quarantine, is that she no longer has to worry about lying about who she is and what she can see. Little does she know that those skills will come in handy as she enters a strange game of greed, hatred and power.
With only one out of forty-six chromosomes as "non-human" Ada looks like your average 12 yr old girl. But what she sees is a different story. She has infrared vision, and when she's tricked into a test at school her whole life comes crashing down around her.
On the island, as Ada gets to know the other kids, including a jellyfish gril and boy who's part seal, she begins to question all that she's be told about kime's and the threat they supposedly pose to the world.
But there's something else on the island, something no one can fathom, and only Ada can see it. Torn between loyalties, and whom she can trust Ada tries to figure out the secrets and lies shrouding the truth behind the kime's existence. But for some it may already be to late.
Note: this books deals with; self loathing, murder attempts, massacre, and "the world is going to be ending" stuff. Parents/ teachers with sensitive readers should read it before giving it to their kids
I know how to keep a secret. I know how to lie better than anybody.
Ada thinks the one bright spot in being sent away to a remote island where all kime's, children born with part human and part animal DNA, are supposed to be held in quarantine, is that she no longer has to worry about lying about who she is and what she can see. Little does she know that those skills will come in handy as she enters a strange game of greed, hatred and power.
With only one out of forty-six chromosomes as "non-human" Ada looks like your average 12 yr old girl. But what she sees is a different story. She has infrared vision, and when she's tricked into a test at school her whole life comes crashing down around her.
On the island, as Ada gets to know the other kids, including a jellyfish gril and boy who's part seal, she begins to question all that she's be told about kime's and the threat they supposedly pose to the world.
But there's something else on the island, something no one can fathom, and only Ada can see it. Torn between loyalties, and whom she can trust Ada tries to figure out the secrets and lies shrouding the truth behind the kime's existence. But for some it may already be to late.
This was a strange little book. I was hooked instantly, my heart went out to this girl who couldn't confide in anybody and is ripped, quite terribly, from her family and her life. Though I loved how she used her violin as her voice and as way to put her feels, not into words but music.
What I didn't like however was some of the writing style and pacing of the book. Sometimes I was confused on who was talking. And some of the duologue was off. But I'm really picky about such things so maybe it was just me. Then there was all the "intrigue". It was hard to keep up.
It was like watching a chess game being played on a soccer field. You couldnt quite figure out the rules and your not sure who's winning. I fell like it could have done with a little more polishing. And a longer epilogue But as a whole I really did find it good.
Note: this books deals with; self loathing, murder attempts, massacre, and "the world is going to be ending" stuff. Parents/ teachers with sensitive readers should read it before giving it to their kids
May 27, 2020
Wow, I'm glad I only tried Tentacle and Wing as an e-book, because I do not enjoy looking at that creepy cover!
Anyway, DNF--really not impressed. The writing style is bland, for one thing.
As science fiction, it doesn't work at all--the author seems to be lacking a very basic understanding of genetics. The concept of this book is that some people are born with a mix of animal and human chromosomes, and these people, known as chimeras, are reviled by the rest of society. Even ignoring the fact that having a chromosome from an animal instead of one of the human ones would probably just result in miscarriage and certainly not the phenotypes we see in the book, some really obvious things--like, middle school science class level--are messed up. Our main character, Ada, explains that her being a chimera means that she's "contagious" and that if she were to stand next to someone who was pregnant, the fetus would have a chance of being "infected" with the foreign DNA. What on earth? I mean, has Porter never seen a Punnett square? Does she think Down Syndrome is "contagious"? Does she think people born with limb differences are a "threat to society"? I guess the message of this book is trying to be something nice like "accept people's differences", but I think it has way more potential to spread some opposite, seriously harmful ideas. Kids who absorb this at the very least may be confused in biology class, and at worst could learn to be ableist.
And then there's the issue of who this book is even appropriate for. It looks like it's being marketed as middle grade, and Ada is about twelve or thirteen and reads as a little younger, but just as far as I got, there were multiple swear words and an indelicate reference to a group of people having been violently killed that push the content to more of a YA level. Honestly, though, I wouldn't feel comfortable recommending this book to anyone.
Anyway, DNF--really not impressed. The writing style is bland, for one thing.
As science fiction, it doesn't work at all--the author seems to be lacking a very basic understanding of genetics. The concept of this book is that some people are born with a mix of animal and human chromosomes, and these people, known as chimeras, are reviled by the rest of society. Even ignoring the fact that having a chromosome from an animal instead of one of the human ones would probably just result in miscarriage and certainly not the phenotypes we see in the book, some really obvious things--like, middle school science class level--are messed up. Our main character, Ada, explains that her being a chimera means that she's "contagious" and that if she were to stand next to someone who was pregnant, the fetus would have a chance of being "infected" with the foreign DNA. What on earth? I mean, has Porter never seen a Punnett square? Does she think Down Syndrome is "contagious"? Does she think people born with limb differences are a "threat to society"? I guess the message of this book is trying to be something nice like "accept people's differences", but I think it has way more potential to spread some opposite, seriously harmful ideas. Kids who absorb this at the very least may be confused in biology class, and at worst could learn to be ableist.
And then there's the issue of who this book is even appropriate for. It looks like it's being marketed as middle grade, and Ada is about twelve or thirteen and reads as a little younger, but just as far as I got, there were multiple swear words and an indelicate reference to a group of people having been violently killed that push the content to more of a YA level. Honestly, though, I wouldn't feel comfortable recommending this book to anyone.
November 9, 2017
For a middle grade novel this really had some heavy elements in it!
Tentacle and Wing is a story about a girl named Ada who's father told her to hide the fact that she's different. A different that's misunderstood in her small world and could put her in danger. So for years just her and her father harbor this secret away from everyone, even her mother.
When Ada is taken away to a school for kids "like her" that's when things start to pick up and get really interesting. First of all this book gave me a reminiscent vibe of Peculiar Children except their head mistress wasn't as loving or caring. Then there was Gabe who thought he knew everything and was so power hungry it was incredibly frustrating to watch. Everyone had their own solid opinion about themselves which there's nothing wrong with but they were so closed minded they didn't bother hearing Ada out and when she would speak they all took it as a shot against them and who they were when that wasn't the case at all.
The story takes a really dark and wtf turn that just makes you hate Gabe even more. But as things start to come to the light, more secrets are uncovered.
I'm proud of Ada and the choices she made. How she never lost sight of herself and her opinions. And how she would fight for her friends.
The book closes as if it were open to be either a stand alone or part of a series, which I'm hoping it is part of a series because I'd like to know where this new knowledge takes Ada next! And how Marley is doing.
Tentacle and Wing is a story about a girl named Ada who's father told her to hide the fact that she's different. A different that's misunderstood in her small world and could put her in danger. So for years just her and her father harbor this secret away from everyone, even her mother.
When Ada is taken away to a school for kids "like her" that's when things start to pick up and get really interesting. First of all this book gave me a reminiscent vibe of Peculiar Children except their head mistress wasn't as loving or caring. Then there was Gabe who thought he knew everything and was so power hungry it was incredibly frustrating to watch. Everyone had their own solid opinion about themselves which there's nothing wrong with but they were so closed minded they didn't bother hearing Ada out and when she would speak they all took it as a shot against them and who they were when that wasn't the case at all.
The story takes a really dark and wtf turn that just makes you hate Gabe even more. But as things start to come to the light, more secrets are uncovered.
I'm proud of Ada and the choices she made. How she never lost sight of herself and her opinions. And how she would fight for her friends.
The book closes as if it were open to be either a stand alone or part of a series, which I'm hoping it is part of a series because I'd like to know where this new knowledge takes Ada next! And how Marley is doing.
April 23, 2018
Twelve year old Ada has lived with a “secret” that she must cover up, she can see in infrared and see other things in light which makes her one of the unwanted Chimera Children. Ever since an accident at a science facility on Long Island, some children on the Island have been born with varying amounts of animal DNA. Children like Ada have been rounded up and taken away to live in a secure compound lest they infect other children. She has managed to keep her secret by not talking about what she sees with anyone but her father until she is caught up in a DNA sting. Her removal and outing rips her away from her life and when she arrives at the compound, she immediately senses that everything may not be on the up and up and what she knows about herself and the other chimera is only the tip of the iceberg.
Sarah Porter delivers a fascinating, yet age appropriate horror thriller in the vein of Stephen King for the middle grade reading level. Ada’s struggle pulls the reader in with some pretty big why questions that may or may not be completely resolved at the end. We know how she “evolved” and her effect on the current situation at the end, but the future- well that’s not so sure. I would recommend this novel for purchase for any public library or middle grade school library collections.
This book was provided by the publisher for professional review by SWON Libraries.
Sarah Porter delivers a fascinating, yet age appropriate horror thriller in the vein of Stephen King for the middle grade reading level. Ada’s struggle pulls the reader in with some pretty big why questions that may or may not be completely resolved at the end. We know how she “evolved” and her effect on the current situation at the end, but the future- well that’s not so sure. I would recommend this novel for purchase for any public library or middle grade school library collections.
This book was provided by the publisher for professional review by SWON Libraries.
October 17, 2019
This was such an unexpectedly good read. The main character is a mixed young lady who discovers early on that she’s different - she can see in infrared. But that’s not so great because that makes her a chimera or a “kime” and the majority of the human population has decided these kimes are unnatural and should be held in containment (at a school *shudder*).
The majority of the book is at a school setting and it was so fun to read about everything the kids had to go through. It was also fun reading about how they learned to not only accept each other, but support one another.
This book I think would be really good for young readers in today’s world as it tackles a couple of topics that are still relevant.
The majority of the book is at a school setting and it was so fun to read about everything the kids had to go through. It was also fun reading about how they learned to not only accept each other, but support one another.
This book I think would be really good for young readers in today’s world as it tackles a couple of topics that are still relevant.
May 18, 2024
dnf at 49%
I'VE TRIED. FOR A MILLION TIMES.
ceritanya distopia ala", kerusakan manusia diduga karna bermutasi gt. anak" yg ketauan kine diambil paksa dari ortunya trs dimasukin kyk panti asuhan gitu. terlalu halus bahasanya. intinya tempat terbuang sih. gada yg mau dateng takut nular katanya. nah ada yg fisiknya keliatan bgt, punya sayap lah, bulu lah, sisik lah. ada yg bisa berubah bentuk. ada juga yg kyk Ada, yg pengelihatannya aja yg berbeda. makanya telat ketauannya karna pinter adaptasi. trus ceritanya Ada lg ngeliat cahaya biru di pantinya. tp uda ak ulang" berusaha lanjut gabisa trs. nyerah.
sayangnya, ak coba baca House in the Cerulean Sea kyknya mirip" gini. pdhl THINCS katanya bagus. harusnya baca itu dulu 🙃
I'VE TRIED. FOR A MILLION TIMES.
ceritanya distopia ala", kerusakan manusia diduga karna bermutasi gt. anak" yg ketauan kine diambil paksa dari ortunya trs dimasukin kyk panti asuhan gitu. terlalu halus bahasanya. intinya tempat terbuang sih. gada yg mau dateng takut nular katanya. nah ada yg fisiknya keliatan bgt, punya sayap lah, bulu lah, sisik lah. ada yg bisa berubah bentuk. ada juga yg kyk Ada, yg pengelihatannya aja yg berbeda. makanya telat ketauannya karna pinter adaptasi. trus ceritanya Ada lg ngeliat cahaya biru di pantinya. tp uda ak ulang" berusaha lanjut gabisa trs. nyerah.
sayangnya, ak coba baca House in the Cerulean Sea kyknya mirip" gini. pdhl THINCS katanya bagus. harusnya baca itu dulu 🙃
March 2, 2019
3.5 stars. There is SO MUCH potential here! This book was interesting and engaging, but in all honesty it felt like a shadow of what it could have been. Too much was left unexplored or underdeveloped. A few of the characters were dynamic and really drew me in, but many of them stayed static and flat throughout the story. I do have to say - this book is very smart and honest for a middle grade book. It didn't coddle, but it also wasn't precocious or unnecessarily bleak. Although part of me would really like to see the same outline written into an adult speculative fiction novel (or even a series!)
January 30, 2018
I enjoyed reading the book by Sarah Porter. It is about a girl named Ada who, from a young age can see things differently then the rest. She was told to keep it a Secret. When she turned 12 she was caught. She was sent to a beachfront quarantined school and met others that were different.
I as and adult, enjoyed reading this book and I am sure when my kids read it they will also enjoy it. The story keeps you interested, it is a quick read. I am exited to read the next one in the series.
Thank you to Sarah Porter and Goodreads for this book.
I as and adult, enjoyed reading this book and I am sure when my kids read it they will also enjoy it. The story keeps you interested, it is a quick read. I am exited to read the next one in the series.
Thank you to Sarah Porter and Goodreads for this book.
June 12, 2018
"Tentacle and Wing" is based around the science of chimeras, in particular human and animal chimeras. This is what drew me to the book at the beginning and it really had so much potential. The storyline itself is very interesting and Ada is a strong heroine. I do think that if it had delved deeper into the characters and the backstory of where they came from, and the actual algae theory with the scientists, it would have been better connected. The ideas progress too quickly in the story to make it 5 stars.
June 28, 2019
First off, I have to say this was a pretty creative book, but it did lose me in a few places. I felt like there were a few main questions unanswered by the end, but I couldn't tell wether or not it was going to have a follow-up. If it is able to continue in a sequel, then I think it will be really be a great story. If not, then I'd be a bit disappointed because I really wanted to get some backstories and motivations fleshed out for the main characters.
That said, the ideas that built this book were pretty cool and unique. Worth the time, even if the story ends there.
That said, the ideas that built this book were pretty cool and unique. Worth the time, even if the story ends there.
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