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jessferg 's review for:
House of Stairs
by William Sleator
Probably more like 4.5. I had to ding it for a little bit of an overplayed hand towards the end. But really - what a great book! It's both a fantastic read and a fascinating look at how much the YA genre has changed.
Even though you go into this kind of knowing nothing absolutely shocking can happen because it's "vintage" YA - way more happens than you'd think. And the subtexts (most likely influenced more by modern sensibility than actual intent) are insane!
The writing manages to be creepy and atmospheric even though the action is basic and very concrete. Even though there are several characters we really don't like, it's hard not to find yourself caring for them. The story is compelling and fast-paced.
I think this holds up as a classic YA read (although I will most likely recommend it to more adults than teens!)
Even though you go into this kind of knowing nothing absolutely shocking can happen because it's "vintage" YA - way more happens than you'd think. And the subtexts (most likely influenced more by modern sensibility than actual intent) are insane!
The writing manages to be creepy and atmospheric even though the action is basic and very concrete. Even though there are several characters we really don't like, it's hard not to find yourself caring for them. The story is compelling and fast-paced.
I think this holds up as a classic YA read (although I will most likely recommend it to more adults than teens!)