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carysisreading's review against another edition
5.0
When I heard about this book I knew I had to pick this up and I'm so glad I did, I've never read something quite like this before. And as i started reading i couldn't put the book down, i loved the writing style of the book i think it just fit the story perfectly and i loved the way the story went. I highly recommend picking this book up even if you're not sure you'll like it, I think it's worth a try because I loved it so much.
stitchsaddiction's review
3.0
I wanted so much to love Innate because the concept for the story was definitely a new one but I have to be honest, of course, and say I only liked it. It was a three star book for me when I wanted to be raving about how incredible it was and giving it five..
In truth, I was left utterly lost by the story at times and felt like I had missed something that would have explained it more. So much so that I bookmarked where I was at one point and read back several times just incase the missing piece finally clicked into place and I could have a celebratory 'A-ha!' moment.
I haven't come across epilepsy in many stories which is quite sad considering an estimated 5 million people are diagnosed globally every year. You would think there would be more representation and that was what appealed to me with Innate when I first came across it, not only does the main character have it somewhat severely but Eric Carter manages to make it so that rather than being something to restrict Chance (the hero of the tale) that it is actually almost a super power and can save others. Whilst obviously this isn't the case, it would be empowering for those who are young and suffering with this horrendous condition to not necessarily see it that way.
The world building is confusing once you enter an almost dream space with Chance, and the story gets more confusing as it continues rather than ending which was frustrating and led to moments of 'Can I continue...' I was stubborn but left with a massive headache but maybe I just missed the answers to my questions? You may get it first time... so don't lose hope if the story intrigues you.
In truth, I was left utterly lost by the story at times and felt like I had missed something that would have explained it more. So much so that I bookmarked where I was at one point and read back several times just incase the missing piece finally clicked into place and I could have a celebratory 'A-ha!' moment.
I haven't come across epilepsy in many stories which is quite sad considering an estimated 5 million people are diagnosed globally every year. You would think there would be more representation and that was what appealed to me with Innate when I first came across it, not only does the main character have it somewhat severely but Eric Carter manages to make it so that rather than being something to restrict Chance (the hero of the tale) that it is actually almost a super power and can save others. Whilst obviously this isn't the case, it would be empowering for those who are young and suffering with this horrendous condition to not necessarily see it that way.
The world building is confusing once you enter an almost dream space with Chance, and the story gets more confusing as it continues rather than ending which was frustrating and led to moments of 'Can I continue...' I was stubborn but left with a massive headache but maybe I just missed the answers to my questions? You may get it first time... so don't lose hope if the story intrigues you.
aanya12's review against another edition
4.0
So this was a short and fun read, I loved the character of Esri, and how he guides Esri throughout the book, and helps him rescue his brother, father and his brother’s friends.
The best part of his help surely has to be the way Esri shows Chance how his disability is not a disability but a power, and the way Chance bridges with the characters is the best, this heartfelt book is a must read!
The best part of his help surely has to be the way Esri shows Chance how his disability is not a disability but a power, and the way Chance bridges with the characters is the best, this heartfelt book is a must read!
stuckonchapter13's review against another edition
3.0
Epilepsy isn't a common disability that we find in novels. So I was extremely pleased with the portrayal of a character with a disability. Eric Carter demonstrates that you can live with epilepsy and any disability without creating limits for yourself. Chance is a wonderful inspiration for young readers. I also love the sci-fi aspects of the novel with the superhuman soldiers. I do have to admit that the Seen and the Unseen got very confusing for me at certain points in the novel. This confusion led to me not fully understanding a few key plot points. Overall, a great representation, nice sci-fi aspects but the Seen and Unseen universe were confusing.
Thank you, NetGalley, BooksGoSocial, and Eric Carter for the arc.
Thank you, NetGalley, BooksGoSocial, and Eric Carter for the arc.
sirah's review against another edition
5.0
As someone with a disability, I've had to come to terms with the fact that my condition is not a gift. It doesn't make me a super hero or a supernatural being. And yet, especially when it comes to neurological syndromes, there is so much we just don't know. Innate explores just a bit of that what if...? Chance is just a regular middle school student--except that if he gets too excited or stressed, he might trigger a seizure. His parents and older brother have hovered over him all his life as he's gone from hospital rooms to emergency rooms and tried to live a normal life in between. Chance has heard all the tawdry comforting words, but deep down, he feels like he's mostly just a burden. Imagine his surprise when he's told that he actually has more strength and ability than anyone in his family.
Naturally I read a lot of books with characters with disabilities, and I'm always struck by how the really good characters have a delicious balance between accepting that the disability is part of what makes them who they are and that they are so much more than a disability. While I don't think I'll be able to view my own limitations as a super power anytime soon, It's fair to say that I've had some incredible experiences that wouldn't have happened if I were able-bodied. I enjoyed getting a glimpse into Chance's what if. The writing in this book is gripping and emotional and left me with a lot of thoughts--in a good way. I'm excited to see where this series goes next.
Naturally I read a lot of books with characters with disabilities, and I'm always struck by how the really good characters have a delicious balance between accepting that the disability is part of what makes them who they are and that they are so much more than a disability. While I don't think I'll be able to view my own limitations as a super power anytime soon, It's fair to say that I've had some incredible experiences that wouldn't have happened if I were able-bodied. I enjoyed getting a glimpse into Chance's what if. The writing in this book is gripping and emotional and left me with a lot of thoughts--in a good way. I'm excited to see where this series goes next.
dips's review against another edition
4.0
Genre: middle-grade, sci-fi (supernatural fiction)
Triggers: vomiting, pills (but no drug abuse)
Rep: epilepsy, dyslexia
3.5/5 stars
Chance Dawson suffers from epilepsy. When soldiers suddenly take away a group of children (including his brother Paul) on the last day of school, Chance is determined to help his brother despite his heavy reactions to stressful situations. He partners with a mysterious being named Esri to learn how to access his powers and rescue his brother.
This was an interesting read, though I have mixed feelings about it. I absolutely loved many aspects of this story. One of my favorite parts of the beginning was the family dynamic. The story starts out extremely strong and fast-paced, and once we meet the parents we understand how much love and care is present in their house daily. I enjoyed the transparency and communication between child and parents especially in regards to Chance’s illness. As the story progresses, the family dynamic changes. I found myself thinking their bond seemed less strong at times, however, given the situations the parents were facing, the depiction was absolutely plausible. I actually appreciated the raw presentation of hurt and frustration.
Another great aspect was the sci-fi part of the story. Presenting Chance’s epilepsy as a power instead of a weakness is inspiring. After the “Unseen” was mentioned for the first time, my first thought was that the author was hinting at cognitive behavioral therapy, which I have never read about before in a middle-grade novel. The only problematic aspect may be that the storyline encourages seizures as a form of entering the other dimension. Seizures can be harmful to the body and, while controlled thoughts can help with anxiety and stress (a trigger for seizures), they should not be used to force an episode.
Now, the ending….. I have so many questions! There has to be a sequel and I will definitely be picking it up as soon as it releases! Despite the small flaw that I mentioned before, I feel strongly for the characters and I definitely want to see how the mission continues.
I do recommend this book if you are looking for a family-focused, emotional read.
Triggers: vomiting, pills (but no drug abuse)
Rep: epilepsy, dyslexia
3.5/5 stars
Chance Dawson suffers from epilepsy. When soldiers suddenly take away a group of children (including his brother Paul) on the last day of school, Chance is determined to help his brother despite his heavy reactions to stressful situations. He partners with a mysterious being named Esri to learn how to access his powers and rescue his brother.
This was an interesting read, though I have mixed feelings about it. I absolutely loved many aspects of this story. One of my favorite parts of the beginning was the family dynamic. The story starts out extremely strong and fast-paced, and once we meet the parents we understand how much love and care is present in their house daily. I enjoyed the transparency and communication between child and parents especially in regards to Chance’s illness. As the story progresses, the family dynamic changes. I found myself thinking their bond seemed less strong at times, however, given the situations the parents were facing, the depiction was absolutely plausible. I actually appreciated the raw presentation of hurt and frustration.
Another great aspect was the sci-fi part of the story. Presenting Chance’s epilepsy as a power instead of a weakness is inspiring. After the “Unseen” was mentioned for the first time, my first thought was that the author was hinting at cognitive behavioral therapy, which I have never read about before in a middle-grade novel. The only problematic aspect may be that the storyline encourages seizures as a form of entering the other dimension. Seizures can be harmful to the body and, while controlled thoughts can help with anxiety and stress (a trigger for seizures), they should not be used to force an episode.
Now, the ending….. I have so many questions! There has to be a sequel and I will definitely be picking it up as soon as it releases! Despite the small flaw that I mentioned before, I feel strongly for the characters and I definitely want to see how the mission continues.
I do recommend this book if you are looking for a family-focused, emotional read.
carysreads's review against another edition
5.0
When I heard about this book I knew I had to pick this up and I'm so glad I did, I've never read something quite like this before. And as i started reading i couldn't put the book down, i loved the writing style of the book i think it just fit the story perfectly and i loved the way the story went. I highly recommend picking this book up even if you're not sure you'll like it, I think it's worth a try because I loved it so much.
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