Fictional Universes: Would You Survive?

05 Feb Fictional Universes: Would You Survive?

The worlds of our favorite novels are fascinating and wonderful to read about, but would you actually be able to survive if you lived in them? If you were thrown into a book, without any preparation, would you come out unscathed? Today, we’ll be taking a critical look into six books from Teen Central’s collection to find out the truth! 

Scythe

by Neal Shusterman

In a world where death is a thing of the past, surviving should be an easy thing, right? Unfortunately, in the world of Scythe, random “gleanings,” or killings, are commonplace. Unless you are a Scythe yourself, the risk of being gleaned is ever present. As seen by the two main characters of the book, even being an apprentice doesn’t make you safe.

Survival Rating: 65%

Crave

by Tracy Wolff

Similar to Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, Crave is the kind of world where supernatural creatures lurk outside of most human’s consciousness. Unless you fall into the same situation as main character Grace, you may be able to avoid any kind of gruesome fate. However, if you did find yourself in the dangerous Katmere academy, keep your head down, and you just might survive.

Survival Rating: 80%

Seven Faceless Saints

by M. K. Lobb

For citizens of Ombrazia, living under the oppressive rule of saints and their disciples is a struggle. With their strange powers, the saints command absolute authority. Unless you happen to become a disciple of one of these saints, your life will be rife with difficulty, even as a member of the Palazzo security. Then, with a murderer lurking the streets– one that can even kill a disciple– you will really struggle to find safety.

Survival Rating: 45%

Iron Widow

by Xiran Jay Zhao

In the world of Iron Widow, the country of Huaxia is at war. Aliens threaten humanity– and the only solution are giant mechanical humanoids, called Chrysalises, that are piloted by male-female pairs. Disproportionately, the young women that become these concubine-pilots die from the mental strain. Even without the immense pressure to enlist, your life will always be in danger due to the alien threat beyond the Great Wall.

Survival Rating: 50%

Caraval

by Stephanie Garber

The easiest way to avoid any kind of terrible fate in Caraval, one should simply not go to Caraval. Joining the five night festival is a very bad decision, despite it’s glitzy cover. However, if you have somehow found yourself accepting an invitation, do not allow yourself to fall for anyone’s lies– because it is all a game.

Survival Rating: 70%

Ashfall

by Mike Mullin

When the Yellowstone supervolcano explodes, the northwestern United States is plunged into a nightmare of smoke and ash. While not an ideal situation, preparation will save you. Having items like a flashlight, mask, and eye protection will be invaluable. Knowing how to clean water will also save you in these conditions.

Survival Rating: 65%

-written by Ajax T, Teen Central Library Assistant