Reviews - The City of Ember

2.4k reviews for:

What a unique, fun story! Admittedly, I haven’t read that many dystopian or sci-fi books, so I could be wrong about my assessment of the book, but it felt like one of the most unique settings I’ve ever found myself in inside a book. DuPrau did an amazing job creating this story world, and I had a lot of fun exploring it through the eyes of the characters. The characters themselves were also dynamic, a little foolish at times, and courageous—everything you could want in good characters, really.

I was engrossed in the story from nearly the first page, and I had a hard time putting the book down when I had to go do other things. I may or may not have invented jobs for myself just so I could keep listening—I love it when a book does that to me!

I didn’t agree with everything in the story. It had a feminist slant (the female characters were expected to work alongside and do the same things the men did), and that bothered me a little. There was also some dishonesty and sneaking around that went on that didn’t sit so well with me.

But overall, this was a fun, engaging story with a slight mystery element and a strong emphasis on friendship and working together for the greater good. I loved it, and all three brothers I’ve shared it with since I read the book also enjoyed it. Recommended.

respectabiggle7's review against another edition

4.0

Though this is classified as a "youth novel", I believe that it will soon become a "timeless classic". DuPrau's take on the apocalypse is very interesting, and beautiful; it demonstrates that life will always find a way.

chbeth's review against another edition

3.75

adventurous hopeful inspiring fast-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: No

bsmith27's review against another edition

4.0

Great dystopian society novel about a girl whose world is loosing light. Sh and her friend try to find a way to save their world that is running out of supplies.