3.75 ⭐️ I am not usually into sci-fi (I think I have trouble with rules of the universe that aren't realistic, which is a main component of sci-fi), but I really enjoyed this one. I like books that incorporate survival and exploration; there was some of that in this book but when the only food they can forage is "spud", there's not much else to the survival aspect. However, this book was written for children and so I think the choices that were made in reference to survival/exploration were very good (not overwhelming, easy to understand and connect with). I do wish that there was more clarity with the "Alien" and what her involvement with the children is, but I feel like the omission allows the reader to think about the possibilities and therefore leads to discussion about the future life on earth, the experiment, and other sci-fi elements. The thing I most enjoyed was the writing style. I found it interesting, thorough, and palatable. It makes this book available to all ages, not just children.

Thanks to NetGalley I received an ARC copy of this fantastic short story. It left me with Ray Bradbury crossed with Lord of the Flies vibes and with so many unanswered questions. It would be a great debate starter for students and is a fast paced quick read if you are looking for something that will make them think and question where the uncomfortable feelings come from.

The characters were on the whole loathsome and I loved that! Equally, it’s not wholly their fault and so you have to think from what perspective you are judging them. I’d love to teach this to Y9; a real conversation starter. The allusions to religion/faith with an omniscient being gave yet more food for thought.

I’ve sat with the uncomfortable questions at the end for a couple of days before writing this. I loved it!

I really enjoyed this short read.
It was thought provoking and dark at times. The experiment was never fully explained but I think that makes it better.
I really felt like I was there with the world building and descriptions. The kids were nasty, especially Margo, and I grimaced a few times. They are so feral it was hard for them to understand life could be better, even with proof. That had me thinking about human psychology.
The story reminded me a little of Lord of the Flies: the contrast between savage and civilized, the innocence of children and exploration of evil.
The kids lose faith in their current governing system and slowly start to lose their minds.
For people who enjoy dark sci-fi.

Warning: experiments with children, isolation, abuse, violence.

I published my review on Goodreads and The Storygraph.