We have changed our privacy policy. In addition, we use cookies on our website for various purposes. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn about our practices by reading our privacy policy.

Tough-O-Meter

We've got your back. With the Tough-O-Meter, you'll know whether to bring extra layers or Swiss army knives as you summit the literary mountain. (10 = Toughest)

(3) Base Camp

We're not going to beat around the bush: This book is long and it isn't the sort of read you can power through in one sitting (well, unless you have a lot of coffee and can function on no sleep). The writing allows for quick reading though (translation: not a lot of SAT words), and the plot is fast-paced enough to keep you engaged. In other words, it's a bit of a trek, but you'll be making good time.

The fact that it's a relatively easy read does not, however, mean that it's a simple, frivolous read. Mixed in with the love triangles and teen angst are a lot of metaphors about government control and freedom and statements about impossible choices—so there's some serious food for thought to sustain you along the way.