If you're a fan of fast-paced sci-fi with kick-butt action, clever gadgets, a dash of humor, and underdog heroes, this is a must-read. Eoin Colfer (of Artemis Fowl fame) spins a futuristic world where orphaned kids battle invisible life-sucking creatures - think a mashup of Ghostbusters and The Matrix! The gritty city setting, lovable band of misfits, unexpected plot twists, and thought-provoking themes about friendship and survival make this especially ideal for teens and anyone who enjoys a smart, adventurous YA ride.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If detailed world-building and deeper character development are your jam, you might notice those elements aren't as fleshed out here. Some readers found the plot a bit uneven or predictable, with a few unresolved threads and maybe a little too much reliance on convenient solutions. Also, if you prefer grounded, realistic stories, the sci-fi cyberpunk style and younger teen focus may not be your thing. Die-hard Artemis Fowl fans might also find it less magical or dazzling in comparison.

A punchy, imaginative sci-fi romp with warmth, action, and heart. Not perfect, but well worth it for anyone needing an exciting, easy-to-read adventure with a unique YA twist.

About:

In a future world where orphaned children are used as test subjects, Cosmo Hill escapes and discovers he can see supernatural parasites that feed on humans. He joins a group of misfits known as the Supernaturalists, who hunt down these creatures to protect humanity. As the group faces challenges and secrets, Cosmo must question everything he believes in while navigating a dangerous and intriguing urban wasteland.

Characters:

The characters are diverse and believable, each with distinct backgrounds, motivations, and flaws that contribute to the group's dynamics.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by fast-paced action, humor, and detailed descriptions that vividly bring the setting and characters to life.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around Cosmo Hill's escape from an abusive orphanage, his discovery of blue life-sucking parasites, and his involvement with a group called the Supernaturalists to combat these creatures.

Setting:

The setting is a dystopian future known as Satellite City, characterized by environmental decay and corporate control, where orphans are exploited.

Pacing:

The pacing is quick and engaging, with a blend of steady buildup leading to bursts of action that keeps readers interested.

Cosmo Hill was the exception. He spent every moment of his waking life watching for that one chance. That split second when his freedom would beckon to him from outside an unlocked door or an unguarde...

Notes:

The protagonist, Cosmo Hill, is a 14-year-old orphan living in a futuristic world.

The story takes place in Satellite City, where corporations have immense power and orphans are used as test subjects for dangerous products.

Cosmo experiences a near-death incident that enables him to see supernatural blue creatures called Parasites that suck life from humans.

The Supernaturalists, a group that rescues Cosmo, are also Spotters who can see these Parasites.

The leader of the Supernaturalists, Stefan, is driven by a vendetta against the Parasites, who he believes are responsible for his mother's death.

The dynamic of the group includes unique characters like Ditto, who looks like a six-year-old but is actually 28 due to genetic modifications.

Mona, another group member, is a skilled mechanic with a drag-racing background.

The government of Satellite City sends lawyers and paralegals to crime scenes instead of traditional police officers.

The novel touches on themes of friendship, survival, and the consequences of corporate greed.

The book combines elements of dystopian fiction with humor, action, and adventure, appealing to young adult readers.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include scenes of abuse, references to drug testing on orphans, and violence against supernatural creatures.

From The Publisher:

In the not-too-distant future, in a place call Satellite City, thirteen-year-old Cosmo Hill is unfortunate enough to come into the world unwanted by his parents. And so, as are all orphaned boys his age, Cosmo is dipped in a vaccine vat and sent to the Clarissa Frayne Institute for Parentally Challenges Boys. But when Cosmo attempts to escape, he finds himself caught in a web far worse that he could have ever imagined, embroiled with private police, illegal racing gangs, and a corporation cover-up, until he discovers a horrifying secret that will force him to question everything he knows and everything he believes in.

2004

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281 pages

Ratings (12)

Incredible (2)
Loved It (4)
Liked It (5)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (19):

Read It (13)
Want To Read (4)
Not Interested (2)

1 comment(s)

Euicho

Incredible

1 year

This is an origin story and as great as all Eoin Colfer's novels are!

What can you read after
The Supernaturalist?

See the list (58 books)

About the Author:

Eoin Colfer (pronounced Owen) is a former elementary school teacher whose Artemis Fowl series has become an international bestseller. He is also the author of The Wish List and the New York Times bestseller The Supernaturalist. He lives in Ireland with his wife and two…

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The Supernaturalist

Eoin Colfer

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