Scythe

Bibliography

Shusterman, N. (2017). SCYTHE. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 978-1-4424-7243-3.

Plot Summary

SCYTHE is a dystopian story where disease, hunger, war, and natural death no longer exist. Now scythes are in charge for controlling the population. Citra Terranova and Rowan Damisch are apprenticing to a scythe although neither want to become one.

Critical Analysis

SCYTHE is a strong YA fantastical fiction that builds a dystopian society that is connected to reality through ethical questions. Although the lack of natural death is unrealistic, the story forces the characters and readers to question the concepts of power and morality. 

Citra and Rowan are both great characters to follow because of their different reactions to the story as it plays out. They both don't want to become scythes, but they both question everything about their worlds. Their competition with each other plus the corruption of the Scythedom makes it easy for young adults to stay hooked.

The world building of this novel is quite strong because it does not feel too confusing although quite unrealistic. With the lack of natural death and the Thunderhead controlling society, it separates this book from the real world. However, the characters still questioning Scythedom creates tension and questions. This allows for a deeper meaning and questioning that connects to the real world.

This story is quite fast-paced, but engaging with all of the suspense. Overall, it is quite entertaining and allows for young readers to engage in a fun story while thinking about morality. 

Review Excerpts

"When our reach does not exceed our grasp, when comfort is more easily obtained than struggle, when our essential humanity doesn t burn out but becomes slowly irrelevant, what becomes of us? Readers will find many things in these pages. Answers to such unsettling questions will not be among them." Booklist, starred review.

"Shusterman's dark tale thrusts realistic, likable teens into a surreal situation and raises deep philosophic questions. A thoughtful and thrilling story of life, death, and meaning." Kirkus, starred review.

Connections

This book would work amazing in any fantasy YA unit because students can analyze the world building. It can also be used in units where conversations and debates about morality and ethics are planned.