If you love your teen horror with a dash of wild twists and a nostalgic 80s/90s vibe, "Scavenger Hunt" offers plenty of suspense, weird mystery, and unforgettable moments. Fans of riddles, scavenger hunts, and dark adventures will get a kick out of the unfolding chaos. It’s a perfect pick for readers who love Christopher Pike’s signature mix of puzzles, uneasy friendships, and creepy turns - and for those who want a book that delivers both chills and a shot of nostalgia.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers might find the plot a little too over-the-top or feel that the story devolves into random weirdness rather than satisfying horror. If you aren’t into books with twists that seem to come out of nowhere, or you prefer your mysteries with more logic and less lizards, this might not hit the spot. Sensitive readers should also be aware there are some darker moments and a bit of gore.

A fun, fast-paced throwback teen horror with bonkers twists - perfect for Pike fans and those craving a creepy, puzzling adventure, but may be too oddball for some tastes.

About:

'Scavenger Hunt' by Christopher Pike follows the story of a group of high school seniors who participate in a mysterious scavenger hunt organized by a secretive club. As they follow clues leading them to a haunted gold mine, they encounter unexpected horrors and evil beyond their imagination. The plot unfolds with a mix of suspense, horror elements, and unexpected twists, keeping readers engaged throughout the book. The writing style of the author effectively builds tension and creates a dark atmosphere, especially towards the end of the story.

Characters:

The characters depict a range of emotional struggles, including grief, shyness, and interpersonal conflict, adding depth to the narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is suspenseful and engaging, designed to keep young adult readers hooked with its mix of accessible prose and intricate themes.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a scavenger hunt that initially seems fun but quickly reveals deeper and darker elements as the characters uncover disturbing truths.

Setting:

The setting, which includes a small desert town and a haunted mine, enhances the eerie and suspenseful tone of the story.

Pacing:

The pacing is quick and engaging, starting strong and maintaining momentum as the mystery unfolds after the scavenger hunt.

Notes:

The book starts with a young man fleeing a demon or cult before transitioning to Carl's story.

Carl's best friend Joe died in a flood nearly a year before the scavenger hunt begins.

Carl is excited about the scavenger hunt because a newcomer named Cessy asked him to join her team.

Tracie, who has a crush on Carl, ends up on a different team.

The scavenger hunt takes place in a nearly dead desert town with odd clues and challenges.

There are two main teams in the scavenger hunt, each with unique characters and dynamics.

The hunt leads to a haunted gold mine where the characters confront an evil force.

Readers find the plot twists and bizarre elements, like lizards and acid, intriguing yet confusing.

Despite some negative reviews, many fans appreciate the book for its riddle-solving and adventure.

The book combines elements of horror, mystery, and suspense, keeping readers engaged until the end.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes themes of death, grief, dark moments, and some gore, which may not be suitable for all young readers.

Has Romance?

The book includes romantic elements, particularly the tension between Carl, Cessy, and Tracie, though it is not the primary focus.

From The Publisher:

The entire senior class partakes in a scavenger hunt sponsored by a secret campus club, but student Carl Timmons's search becomes a nightmare trip into a world where the living and the dead are one.

Ratings (2)

Incredible (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (2):

Read It (2)

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Scavenger Hunt

Christopher Pike

Who Would Like This Book: