65 pages 2 hours read

S.A. Bodeen

The Compound

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2008

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In S.A. Bodeen's 2008 young adult novel The Compound, sixteen-year-old Eli and his family have lived in an underground compound for six years, believing a nuclear attack has destroyed the outside world. As resources dwindle and suspicions about their father's motives grow, Eli discovers the truth about their situation and ultimately leads his family to escape. The book contains themes involving the treatment of "supplements" as commodities, which may evoke strong emotional responses.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Compound by S.A. Bodeen offers a gripping and suspenseful narrative, appealing to young adult readers with its fast-paced storyline and intriguing premise. While praised for its originality and tension, some reviewers noted predictable plot twists and underdeveloped characters. Overall, it delivers a thrilling read but might fall short for those seeking deep character exploration.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Compound?

Fans of dystopian thrillers and survival stories will enjoy S.A. Bodeen's The Compound. Readers who appreciated Suzanne Collins's The Hunger Games and Lois Lowry's The Giver will find themselves captivated by the tense atmosphere and psychological depth. Ideal for teens and young adults seeking intense, thought-provoking narratives.

Recommended

Reading Age

12+years

Lexile Level

570L

Book Details

Genre

Horror / Thriller / Suspense Fiction

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Shame & Pride