A classic of YA fiction and I was pleasantly surprised.

The story runs at a consistent, steady pace, with effective writing and likeable characters. This is one of the few series that stars a male main character. I'd call this a contemporary fantasy - as in the characters are in the modern day world with magic.

I really enjoyed how this tackled the "special" or "chosen one" trope. In the sense that this character has a lot of power which is set up differently than other characters. But he's not overpowered and quickly successful. There's a lot of time spent building up his abilities and even then he's not all powerful when he actually has to use the knowledge he's gained. Really refreshing.

Also, this is written for a more younger audience where there's not a lot of graphic violence, or dark themes. There isn't that much romance either which was quite enjoyable.

I'm quite curious to continue, especially since I heard the later series from this author is supposed to be the better one.

Jack was a seemingly average teen until one day he forgot to take his medicine and his entire world changed.  He was stronger and faster than he had ever been and the next thing he knew, he was thrown into a battle for his life.
The action was almost non-stop, and it was hard to put the book down until it was finished.  I recommend this book for high school libraries.