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The Program

Book 1 in the series:The Program

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'The Program' by Suzanne Young is a young adult dystopian novel that delves into the theme of a suicide epidemic among teenagers. The story follows the main character, Sloane, who navigates a world where depression is treated by a government-controlled program that erases memories. As Sloane and her boyfriend, James, try to evade being taken into The Program, they face challenges, mysteries, and the consequences of living in a society where mental health is controlled and memories are wiped. The writing style of the book is described as intense, gripping, and compelling, with a focus on themes of love, trust, and the fight for individuality in a dystopian setting.

Characters:

The characters are complex and relatable, especially Sloane and James, whose emotional struggles highlight the intensity of the societal pressures they face.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is fluid and engaging, making the narrative accessible while delving deep into the emotional experiences of the characters.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers around a dystopian society facing a teenage suicide epidemic, resulting in a government program that erases memories to combat depression. The protagonists, Sloane and James, struggle to maintain their identities while navigating the emotional turmoil of their environment.

Setting:

The setting is a dystopian world grappling with a youth suicide crisis, featuring schools and government facilities that embody themes of surveillance and loss of identity.

Pacing:

The pacing is fast but thoughtful, keeping readers engaged while allowing for character development and emotional reflection.
THE AIR IN THE ROOM TASTES STERILE. THE LINGERING scent of bleach is mixing with the fresh white paint on the walls, and I wish my teacher would open the window to let in a breeze. But we’re on the th...

Notes:

The Program is set in a dystopian future where teenage suicide is a global epidemic.
Teens exhibit symptoms that lead them to The Program, which erases their memories to treat depression.
The protagonist, Sloane, struggles with the loss of her brother and the fear of losing her memories.
There is constant surveillance of teens, and any sign of emotion could get them sent to The Program.
The Program claims a 100% recovery rate, but those who return are often like 'empty shells'.
The relationship between Sloane and her boyfriend James is central to the plot.
Many readers expressed concern over the portrayal of mental health treatment in the book.
There is a love triangle involving Sloane, James, and a character named Realm.
The book addresses heavy themes such as grief, depression, and the ethics of memory erasure.
The writing style has been praised for being engaging and emotionally impactful.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of suicide, self-harm, mental illness, and emotional distress, potentially triggering for some readers.

Has Romance?

The romance between Sloane and James is a central element, marked by deep emotional connections and challenges related to their circumstances.

From The Publisher:

In this "gripping tale for lovers of dystopian romance" (Kirkus Reviews), true feelings are forbidden, teen suicide is an epidemic, and the only solution is The Program.

Sloane knows better than to cry in front of anyone. With suicide now an international epidemic, one outburst could land her in The Program, the only proven course of treatment. Sloane's parents have already lost one child; Sloane knows they'll do anything to keep her alive. She also knows that everyone who's been through The Program returns as a blank slate. Because their depression is gone-but so are their memories.

Under constant surveillance at home and at school, Sloane puts on a brave face and keeps her feelings buried as deep as she can. The only person Sloane can be herself with is James. He's promised to keep them both safe and out of treatment, and Sloane knows their love is strong enough to withstand anything. But despite the promises they made to each other, it's getting harder to hide the truth. They are both growing weaker. Depression is setting in.

And The Program is coming for them.

Ratings (10)

Incredible (2)
Loved It (6)
Liked It (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (26):

Read It (11)
Want To Read (14)
Not Interested (1)

1 comment(s)

It Was OK
1 week

The book contains the touching subjects of sucide. In this dystopian novel, sucide has become an epidemic. Didn't know if I could stomach the contains of this but it was alright story. Not great with the plot Andi thought it could have handled the subject a little better but overall it's an entertaining story even though I didn't feel for the romance

 

About the Author:

Suzanne Young is the New York Times bestselling author of The Program series. Originally from Utica, New York, Suzanne moved to Arizona to pursue her dream of not freezing to death. She is a novelist and an English teacher, but not always in that order. Suzanne is also the author of Girls with Sharp Sticks, All in Pieces, Hotel for the Lost, and several other novels for teens. Visit her online at AuthorSuzanneYoung.com or follow her on Instagram at @AuthorSuzanneYoung.

 
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