Books Like...
'The Kingdom' by Jess Rothenberg is a YA science fiction thriller set in a futuristic Disney World type park where human-android hybrids called Fantasists live. The story revolves around Ana, one of the Fantasists, who is accused of murdering a park employee named Owen. The book alternates between past events, trial snippets, and the aftermath of the trial, creating a suspenseful and engaging narrative that delves into themes of artificial intelligence, ethics, and the dark secrets of the seemingly perfect theme park.
If you liked The Kingdom, here are the top 5 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'Girls with Sharp Sticks' by Suzanne Young explores the controlled lives of young women at the elite Innovation Academy, where they are groomed to be perfect girls for their sponsors by a domineering male faculty. The story follows Mena as she questions the oppressive patriarchal conditions at the academy and uncovers the sinister truths behind the facade of perfection. The plot unfolds in a boarding school setting, blending elements of suspense, mystery, science fiction, and feminist themes, ultimately leading to a twist that leaves readers shocked and eager for the next installment.
The book delves into themes of misogyny, rape culture, body horror, and rebellion against oppressive systems. Through the character of Mena, the narrative sheds light on the pervasiveness of patriarchy and the importance of questioning authority. The writing style evokes strong emotions of rage towards the cruelty inflicted on the girls at the academy, building tension as the protagonist navigates a journey of self-discovery and empowerment in the face of manipulation and control.
Rain taps on my school-provided slicker, the inside of the clear plastic material growing foggy in the humid air, and I look around the Federal Flower Garden. Precipitation has soaked the soil, causin... - #2
Save:'Westworld' by Michael Crichton is a thought-provoking and forward-thinking book that delves into themes of consciousness, artificial intelligence, and ethical dilemmas. The narrative unfolds in a futuristic setting where the boundaries between reality and illusion blur, reminiscent of a complex system displaying unpredictable chaotic behavior. Through intricate plot twists and a blend of Western and sci-fi elements, the book explores the emergence of consciousness in AI, drawing parallels to other popular TV shows like 'Black Mirror' and 'The Matrix'.
The screenplay for Westworld was written in August, 1972, and subsequently offered to the major studios. Every one turned it down, except for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. That immediately presented a problem.... - #3
Save:"All the Birds in the Sky" by Charlie Jane Anders is a unique blend of magic and science, following the intertwined destinies of two outcast characters, Patricia and Laurence, from childhood through adulthood. The story explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the clash between nature and technology as the characters navigate a world on the brink of an ecological apocalypse. The narrative weaves together elements of magic realism and urban fantasy, creating a tale that is both whimsical and thought-provoking.
WHEN PATRICIA WAS six years old, she found a wounded bird. The sparrow thrashed on top of a pile of wet red leaves in the crook of two roots, waving its crushed wing. Crying, in a pitch almost too hig... - #4
Save:Crier's War by Nina Varela is a captivating tale set in a world where Automae, a machine-human hybrid, have enslaved humans. The story follows Crier, an Automae princess, and Ayla, a human servant, as they navigate their growing feelings for each other amidst societal divides and impending war. The book is praised for its fast-paced plot, intricate world-building, and the enemies-to-lovers romance between Crier and Ayla, making it a compelling read that delves into themes of love, revenge, and revolution.
When she was newbuilt and still fragile, and her fresh-woven skin was soft and shiny from creation, Crier’s father told her, “Always check their eyes. That’s how you can tell if a creature is human. I... - #5
Save:The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a dystopian novel set in the country of Panem, which consists of 12 districts and a Capitol. Every year, the Capitol holds the Hunger Games, where one boy and one girl from each district are chosen to fight to the death on live television. The story follows 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen from District 12, who volunteers to take her sister's place in the Hunger Games. As the plot unfolds, Katniss navigates the brutal competition while facing moral dilemmas and forming alliances with other tributes.
The book explores themes of survival, sacrifice, government oppression, and the effects of reality television on society. Suzanne Collins weaves a narrative that delves into the complexities of human nature, the power dynamics between the Capitol and the districts, and the resilience of the protagonist, Katniss, as she fights for her life and grapples with her emotions amidst the chaos of the Hunger Games.
When I wake up, the other side of the bed is cold. My fingers stretch out, seeking Prim’s warmth but finding only the rough canvas cover of the mattress. She must have had bad dreams and climbed in wi...
