"Radio Silence" by Alice Oseman is a young adult novel that delves into themes of friendship, identity, and societal pressures. The story follows Frances, a high school student aiming for Cambridge, who finds herself drawn into the world of a podcast called Universe City, where she forms a deep connection with Aled, the creator of the show. The book explores their friendship, struggles with academic expectations, and the complexities of relationships in a modern setting, all while touching upon topics like asexuality, anxiety, and online bullying. Oseman's writing style is praised for its refreshing take on teenage experiences, realistic portrayal of characters, and the nuanced exploration of various themes that resonate with readers of different ages.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed and diverse, each reflecting different aspects of teenage life and the struggles related to identity, friendship, and family.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is straightforward and relatable, effectively capturing the essence of teenage life with a mix of humor and emotional depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The story intricately delves into the realistic struggles of teenagers, showcasing the importance of friendship amidst academic pressures and self-discovery.

Setting:

Set in contemporary England, the story reflects the academic and social pressures of modern student life, accentuated by the influence of online culture.

Pacing:

The pacing is brisk, with a structure that keeps readers engaged through quick chapters and a narrative that builds emotional stakes effectively.

We stood still and listened and I remember every single thing I heard in that moment. I heard the rumbling of the train we’d just got off leaving the station, heading farther into town. I heard the ti...

Notes:

The book starts with a thought-provoking sentence about the struggle of feeling unheard.

It realistically portrays teenage struggles and academic pressure.

Frances is a bisexual British-Ethiopian introvert who feels immense pressure to get into Cambridge.

Aled, a shy character, creates a podcast where he expresses his pain and concerns over his missing twin sister.

The story focuses on the platonic friendship between Frances and Aled, highlighting the beauty of non-romantic relationships.

Diverse representation includes a gay Korean character and an Indian girl; identities are integral but not solely defining.

The book addresses toxic relationships, particularly through Aled's abusive mother.

It critiques societal expectations surrounding education and career paths.

The portrayal of internet fandom is realistic and thought-provoking.

The book weaves in themes of mental health, anxiety, and the impact of social media on creators.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers include mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, parental abuse, and the pressures of academic life.

From The Publisher:

From the critically acclaimed creator of the Heartstopper series comes a smartly crafted contemporary YA novel, perfect for readers who love Rainbow Rowell's Fangirl. This is an utterly captivating and authentic teen novel from the author of Solitaire, which VOYA said "could put her among the great young adult fiction authors."

Frances Janvier spends most of her time studying.

Everyone knows Aled Last as that quiet boy who gets straight As.

You probably think that they are going to fall in love or something. Since he is a boy and she is a girl.

They don't. They make a podcast.

In a world determined to shut them up, knock them down, and set them on a cookie cutter life path, Frances and Aled struggle to find their voices over the course of one life-changing year. Will they have the courage to show everyone who they really are? Or will they be met with radio silence?

Ratings (48)

Incredible (23)
Loved It (18)
Liked It (3)
It Was OK (4)

Reader Stats (133):

Read It (51)
Want To Read (62)
Did Not Finish (3)
Not Interested (17)

3 comment(s)

katnel973

Loved It

2 months

i relate to frances a bit too much

afoowl471

Incredible

8 months

This is one of the most wonderful books I've ever read. It pierced through my heart. Such beautiful characters and story. I'm in love with everything about it ♡♡♡♡

hae991

Loved It

11 months

This book=❤️

What can you read after
Radio Silence?

See the list (100 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

Radio Silence

Alice Oseman