Status
Available
Call number
Genres
Collections
Publication
Orion Childrens (2010), Paperback, 240 pages
Description
As nature seems to be exerting an overpowering force on the world, a fifteen-year-old English girl learns that she has supernatural powers and discovers her true purpose.
User reviews
LibraryThing member The_Librain
Very disappointed with this after the excellent "Breathe". Badly written - starts off OK but gets worse in the second half and the ending is rushed and abrupt.
LibraryThing member booktwirps
Fifteen-year-old Savannah Grey likes to keep moving. She has moved between foster homes frequently ever since her parents died years ago. Lately, she has been having problems with her throat, and her latest foster mother tells her she can hear her making clicking noises at night as she sleeps. What
Savannah’s friend, Nina, introduces her to Reece, a boy she is instantly smitten with. Mainly because of the scar across his neck which is a result of a childhood accident. Savannah and Reece realize that similar things have been happening to them, with their throats, and they have both been seeing things late at night; something that is stalking them outside their homes. As the novel progresses, Savannah learns that the scratch in her throat is something very powerful, and together with Reece she soon learns that she holds the key to destroying the evil that is stalking them. What she doesn’t know is that the monster is waiting, and it has a plan of it’s own on how to stop her.
This book was enjoyable, and the author does a great job of painting pictures. The plot moved along quickly, though, at times, I found myself thinking that maybe it was moving a little too quickly. The story is mainly told from Savannah’s point of view, but occasionally shifts to third person as we learn about how the Ocrassa came to be. At times I felt these explanations of how the monster evolved were a bit much and took away from the pace of the story. I was less interested in how the monster came to be and more interested in Savannah and Reece’s story. All in all I enjoyed the book, but it wasn’t something I would rave about. I will say that there is a twist to the story that I never saw coming, and this twist was what bumped my rating up by a star. I liked the action and the characters, and I especially liked the uniqueness of having a throat weapon – you don’t see that every day – but the sci-fi parts kind of put me off. I do have a few friends that would eat this one up and I will definitely recommend it to them. For me, however, the book was just ok. The author gets high points for writing style and an interesting story, but my review is lowered because there were just parts of it I couldn’t get in to, and I doubt I would want to read it again.
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Savannah doesn’t know is that there is something in her throat that has been laying dormant. This something is the only weapon capable of fighting the Ocrassa, an ancient evil (a monster if you will) that loves to kill more than anything.Savannah’s friend, Nina, introduces her to Reece, a boy she is instantly smitten with. Mainly because of the scar across his neck which is a result of a childhood accident. Savannah and Reece realize that similar things have been happening to them, with their throats, and they have both been seeing things late at night; something that is stalking them outside their homes. As the novel progresses, Savannah learns that the scratch in her throat is something very powerful, and together with Reece she soon learns that she holds the key to destroying the evil that is stalking them. What she doesn’t know is that the monster is waiting, and it has a plan of it’s own on how to stop her.
This book was enjoyable, and the author does a great job of painting pictures. The plot moved along quickly, though, at times, I found myself thinking that maybe it was moving a little too quickly. The story is mainly told from Savannah’s point of view, but occasionally shifts to third person as we learn about how the Ocrassa came to be. At times I felt these explanations of how the monster evolved were a bit much and took away from the pace of the story. I was less interested in how the monster came to be and more interested in Savannah and Reece’s story. All in all I enjoyed the book, but it wasn’t something I would rave about. I will say that there is a twist to the story that I never saw coming, and this twist was what bumped my rating up by a star. I liked the action and the characters, and I especially liked the uniqueness of having a throat weapon – you don’t see that every day – but the sci-fi parts kind of put me off. I do have a few friends that would eat this one up and I will definitely recommend it to them. For me, however, the book was just ok. The author gets high points for writing style and an interesting story, but my review is lowered because there were just parts of it I couldn’t get in to, and I doubt I would want to read it again.
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LibraryThing member meags222
This is one of the first books I ever requested from NetGalley and I was excited to be approved for it because I definitely love a good monster story. I really enjoyed the way McNish narrated his story not only in the point of view of Savannah but also in the point of view of his monster the
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Orcassa. I really found the parts about the Orcassa the most interesting parts of the novel. I have read many monster stories and I found that McNish was able to find a new and interesting way to write his own monster story. I don't think I've ever before seen a story with a protagonist who has a whole defense mechanism against the monster stored in her throat. I have to admit that I did guess the plot twist in the end but I am constantly reading mystery novels so I most often guess the plot twists. The only thing that I would have changed about this story is the ending. I felt that the ending was a bit rushed and doesn't really tie up all the loose ends. I don't feel like there was a detailed enough explanation was given for the thing in Savannah's throat. Also, what happens now? I found the book just kind of ends and I was left with a feeling of wanting more. Overall I give this book 3.5 stars out of 5. If you like monster stories then you'll like this one. Show Less
LibraryThing member Bookswithbite
I found myself really excited to read this book. For one the synopsis really captured me. I really wanted to like this book, but alas I could not. I found that plot did not capture me at all. While the characters were great, the story was lacking.
Savannah though she was normal when all of sudden
First off, what gripe me about this book was how slow it took the plot to thicken. While I enjoyed meeting Savannah and learning about her, it took a while to see what is going on. Also it need a lot more explaining. I had a hard time grasping the plot and found myself re-reading parts just to understand. Finally after a good amount a pages in, I understood but I was still somewhat confused as to how Savannah got that way in the first place.
The love interest was surprisingly good. I like seeing Savannah have someone to lean on after what she found out. Reece is just like her. I like how the reader got to see them explore their findings as to what is going on. They were their for each other and didn't push each other into anything. I like seeing how easy it was to be with each other.
Savannah though she was normal when all of sudden
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she made weird noises at night. She found herself wondering around, think she was dreaming but she was actually doing something else. She discovers something different or wrong with her throat. There is something in there that doesn't look right. And the Orcrassa wants her dead because of it.First off, what gripe me about this book was how slow it took the plot to thicken. While I enjoyed meeting Savannah and learning about her, it took a while to see what is going on. Also it need a lot more explaining. I had a hard time grasping the plot and found myself re-reading parts just to understand. Finally after a good amount a pages in, I understood but I was still somewhat confused as to how Savannah got that way in the first place.
The love interest was surprisingly good. I like seeing Savannah have someone to lean on after what she found out. Reece is just like her. I like how the reader got to see them explore their findings as to what is going on. They were their for each other and didn't push each other into anything. I like seeing how easy it was to be with each other.
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LibraryThing member frannypatter
What a brilliant book!
Horror, but essentially about love. Love of nature, love of each other.
Cliff McNish has captured the horror genre perfectly for children. Gruesome but light.
There are some flaws - tighter editing perhaps would have smoothed these out.
The relationship between The Nyktomorph &
Don't want to say too much but I implore you to read it. A refreshing change of genre.
China Mieville was right.
Horror, but essentially about love. Love of nature, love of each other.
Cliff McNish has captured the horror genre perfectly for children. Gruesome but light.
There are some flaws - tighter editing perhaps would have smoothed these out.
The relationship between The Nyktomorph &
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The Horror is beautifully represented on p220-221 and the character that is The Horror is wonderful. Don't want to say too much but I implore you to read it. A refreshing change of genre.
China Mieville was right.
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LibraryThing member nlsobon
Savannah Grey has something in her throat, a weapon of some sort which she believes must be used to destory a monster. I must admit, going into this book I was excited because it's incredibly different from what is out there (Young Adult wise), but the first half of the book seemed rushed.
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Thankfully, once you hit the middle it begins to pick up. The relationship with Reece and Savannah, though, again, rushed, is a strong one - they share the same problem, or so she thinks. The strongest part of this book would have to be the ending, its one that will have the reader sitting in shock. I didn't love the book, but I wouldn't go as far as to say it's terrible. It is definitely an interesting read. Show Less
LibraryThing member the1stdaughter
Savannah Grey isn’t your typical teen, though she’s probably not that abnormal either. Moving from foster home to foster home she’s finally settled on a place that may last throughout the end of her high school years. Only problem? She’s starting to feel suffocated. Not only that, but her
So, generally speaking, I’m just not the type of girl that picks up science fiction reads. It’s just not my thing. Normally. Well, after being completely drawn in first by the cover of Savannah Grey and then by the synopsis I couldn’t help but want to devour the pages as quickly as possible. I’m so glad I did. Funny thing about that is that I actually read this book nearly three months ago and have waited posting my review because I couldn’t logically put into words exactly what I thought. I’m certain I’m no better now than I was three months ago, but I can honestly say this is a book that won’t let you go; I’ve been thinking about it since I finished it.
Cliff McNish has come up with an incredibly unique story line and I think that’s what really grabbed me about the story. Not often do you find a young adult novel about evolution and science fiction that is so accessible. Savannah Grey alternates narrators between the character Savannah Grey and the alien life form that opposes her, which is rather interesting to read. The concept of an alien life form that has basically evolved from a single cell into a formidable adversary was something I’d really never read before. Couple that with the weapon that Savannah has unknowingly concealed inside her throat, also another evolutionary trick against this foe, and you have a positively gripping read.
Now, as for the “non-scientific” aspects of the story, specifically her romantic interest as well as her home and friends, it was sometimes touch and go. I loved that the lead character was female and a powerful leading lady at that. I also loved the conflict that arose within herself regarding the weapon in her throat. What confused me at times was her sudden enthrallment with Reece. Still, even this was only a fleeting feeling because as the story progressed you were able to discover more and more why she would in fact be drawn to him. I’ll tell you this, it has nothing to do with his charming nature or good looks, be prepared to be surprised. With those feelings resolved by the end of the book the other aspects of her life, such as her friendships and foster care situation made her more real and much easier to connect with.
What if life wasn’t as simple as yes, I’m normal or no, I’m abnormal? And what if your options leaned more toward the, “I could possibly be a monster” side of things. For Savannah Grey her nightmares are only just beginning and though her sudden new companionship brings her comfort it also raises many questions. Will Savannah make the right choice? Discover a fantastic new science fiction young adult novel and be prepared to be surprised as well as possibly discover an entire new genre to look into. Cliff McNish has created a cast of characters and a story that will not easily be forgotten; one I will definitely be recommending for some time to come.
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throat is making odd sounds at inopportune times. Of course odd sounds don’t always bode well for a new romance. Will Savannah make the difficult decision to repair her throat by whatever means possible and will it be enough to secure her future with an illusive new boy? Or is it possible the universe has something entirely different in store for her?So, generally speaking, I’m just not the type of girl that picks up science fiction reads. It’s just not my thing. Normally. Well, after being completely drawn in first by the cover of Savannah Grey and then by the synopsis I couldn’t help but want to devour the pages as quickly as possible. I’m so glad I did. Funny thing about that is that I actually read this book nearly three months ago and have waited posting my review because I couldn’t logically put into words exactly what I thought. I’m certain I’m no better now than I was three months ago, but I can honestly say this is a book that won’t let you go; I’ve been thinking about it since I finished it.
Cliff McNish has come up with an incredibly unique story line and I think that’s what really grabbed me about the story. Not often do you find a young adult novel about evolution and science fiction that is so accessible. Savannah Grey alternates narrators between the character Savannah Grey and the alien life form that opposes her, which is rather interesting to read. The concept of an alien life form that has basically evolved from a single cell into a formidable adversary was something I’d really never read before. Couple that with the weapon that Savannah has unknowingly concealed inside her throat, also another evolutionary trick against this foe, and you have a positively gripping read.
Now, as for the “non-scientific” aspects of the story, specifically her romantic interest as well as her home and friends, it was sometimes touch and go. I loved that the lead character was female and a powerful leading lady at that. I also loved the conflict that arose within herself regarding the weapon in her throat. What confused me at times was her sudden enthrallment with Reece. Still, even this was only a fleeting feeling because as the story progressed you were able to discover more and more why she would in fact be drawn to him. I’ll tell you this, it has nothing to do with his charming nature or good looks, be prepared to be surprised. With those feelings resolved by the end of the book the other aspects of her life, such as her friendships and foster care situation made her more real and much easier to connect with.
What if life wasn’t as simple as yes, I’m normal or no, I’m abnormal? And what if your options leaned more toward the, “I could possibly be a monster” side of things. For Savannah Grey her nightmares are only just beginning and though her sudden new companionship brings her comfort it also raises many questions. Will Savannah make the right choice? Discover a fantastic new science fiction young adult novel and be prepared to be surprised as well as possibly discover an entire new genre to look into. Cliff McNish has created a cast of characters and a story that will not easily be forgotten; one I will definitely be recommending for some time to come.
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LibraryThing member AngelaFristoe
I was expecting creepy when I picked this book up (based solely on the cover, which I think is amazing!), but I didn't quite know what it was going to be like. This was beyond creepy. Maybe it's because I have a bit of a neck phobia, with fears of choking. McNish does an excellent job of describing
Savannah was a likable enough character, believable in her fear and in her sudden crazy desire to protect what is in her throat. She confused and scared pretty much the entire book and it works well to keep the suspense going, wondering if the thing inside of her is good or evil.
But it's the monsters that are amazing. They are described in a way that brings them to life and unlike so many other storybook monsters we get inside their minds and are able to understand what is driving them to do what they are attempting. McNish does such a good job of this that there were points that I even felt sympathy for them.
The best part is that I was completely surprised by the ending. Looking back I can see the little things that would have pointed me in the right direction, but even then I wouldn't have expected it. Wonderful book and definitely a read for anyone looking for a bit of creepiness.
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exactly what Savannah is going through and it really brings to life her terror over what is happening to her.Savannah was a likable enough character, believable in her fear and in her sudden crazy desire to protect what is in her throat. She confused and scared pretty much the entire book and it works well to keep the suspense going, wondering if the thing inside of her is good or evil.
But it's the monsters that are amazing. They are described in a way that brings them to life and unlike so many other storybook monsters we get inside their minds and are able to understand what is driving them to do what they are attempting. McNish does such a good job of this that there were points that I even felt sympathy for them.
The best part is that I was completely surprised by the ending. Looking back I can see the little things that would have pointed me in the right direction, but even then I wouldn't have expected it. Wonderful book and definitely a read for anyone looking for a bit of creepiness.
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LibraryThing member wyvernfriend
Savannah Grey has a new home, new foster parents and a new issue. There is something strange going on in her throat, she's making strange sounds and it's making her very worried. She's also reflexly protectective of it, dangerously so.
She has a feeling something is following her and is trying to
It twists and turns and the ending came as a shock, even if it was flagged and perfect for the story. An excellent read.
She has a feeling something is following her and is trying to
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do something and she's not sure what that something is. She's also attracted to Reece who has some of the same abilities.It twists and turns and the ending came as a shock, even if it was flagged and perfect for the story. An excellent read.
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LibraryThing member shellwitte
Overall ★★★★★
Story ★★★★★
Characters ★★★★★
Writing ★★★★★
Ending ★★★★★
It’s incredibly rare that a book manages to vault itself onto my “favorite books ever” list within the first two paragraphs. Only one book comes to mind, at least within recent
What did it? Paragraph number 2: “Reaching number thirty-three, Savannah Grey’s house, the Horror dropped its star-shaped head on one side, knotted its murderous claws behind its back, and tried to work out the most entertaining way to reach Savannah’s bedroom. There were many ways available, but the Horror was young and like all young things, it liked to use its teeth.”
How, I ask, can a book be dull with an opening like that? I was immediately captivated. Not even the change in narrative styles to first person once Savannah awoke diminished the storytelling. I was delighted when I saw that the original voice returned every few chapters to detail more of the Horror and the ancient Ocrassa that controlled it. Neither voice suffered, instead offering a depth to the already compelling story.
While the human characters were well crafted, the monsters came to life with a vibrancy that made me want to see the child-like Horror prance about in a stolen leotard and chasse and leap about while terrorizing humans. The way McNish tells of the Ocrassa’s history is as though he is telling of the Earth itself, incredibly powerful and moving. While explicitly evil, the Ocrassa is rendered in such a way that its actions seemed logical given what it was. I’ve never seen a writer make monsters feel so natural in our world. It’s incredible and not something I can accurately express in a brief review.
In addition to all this, the book ends exactly where and as it should. While there are some flaws (which I’d daresay are minor in comparison to its incredible strengths), I’ve read so few books that seemed nearly perfect in so many ways. This is one you have to read for yourself. Although many of you may disagree with my thoughts, you can’t read this and not wonder at the incredibly rich and original universe McNish created here. It’s astounding.
Story ★★★★★
Characters ★★★★★
Writing ★★★★★
Ending ★★★★★
It’s incredibly rare that a book manages to vault itself onto my “favorite books ever” list within the first two paragraphs. Only one book comes to mind, at least within recent
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memory: The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman captivated me by the first line. Now I’ve found a second: Cliff McNish’s Savannah Grey, and it did so with incredible force.What did it? Paragraph number 2: “Reaching number thirty-three, Savannah Grey’s house, the Horror dropped its star-shaped head on one side, knotted its murderous claws behind its back, and tried to work out the most entertaining way to reach Savannah’s bedroom. There were many ways available, but the Horror was young and like all young things, it liked to use its teeth.”
How, I ask, can a book be dull with an opening like that? I was immediately captivated. Not even the change in narrative styles to first person once Savannah awoke diminished the storytelling. I was delighted when I saw that the original voice returned every few chapters to detail more of the Horror and the ancient Ocrassa that controlled it. Neither voice suffered, instead offering a depth to the already compelling story.
While the human characters were well crafted, the monsters came to life with a vibrancy that made me want to see the child-like Horror prance about in a stolen leotard and chasse and leap about while terrorizing humans. The way McNish tells of the Ocrassa’s history is as though he is telling of the Earth itself, incredibly powerful and moving. While explicitly evil, the Ocrassa is rendered in such a way that its actions seemed logical given what it was. I’ve never seen a writer make monsters feel so natural in our world. It’s incredible and not something I can accurately express in a brief review.
In addition to all this, the book ends exactly where and as it should. While there are some flaws (which I’d daresay are minor in comparison to its incredible strengths), I’ve read so few books that seemed nearly perfect in so many ways. This is one you have to read for yourself. Although many of you may disagree with my thoughts, you can’t read this and not wonder at the incredibly rich and original universe McNish created here. It’s astounding.
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LibraryThing member Staciesnape
Half way through I decided that this reminded me a lot of Lord Loss by Darren Shan. I'm not going to go into much detail but if you have ever read the book you will probably agree or understand why I think it.
It was a very unique idea and for it's target audience it was great. Sadly at 22 I think
I loved the characters though, but don't think enough time went to the character build up. I also feel like the story moved to quick but considering it was only 250 pages or so I understand. But found it hard that Sav was so quick to accept everything that was happening. It was slightly unrealistic.
I personal think it might have been better as more than one book that way there could have been suspense.
It was a very unique idea and for it's target audience it was great. Sadly at 22 I think
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I'm just a little too old for most YA books no matter how much I love Cliff McNish. I loved the characters though, but don't think enough time went to the character build up. I also feel like the story moved to quick but considering it was only 250 pages or so I understand. But found it hard that Sav was so quick to accept everything that was happening. It was slightly unrealistic.
I personal think it might have been better as more than one book that way there could have been suspense.
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Awards
Yoto Carnegie Medal for Writing (Nominee — 2011)
Language
Physical description
240 p.; 8.35 inches
ISBN
1842551124 / 9781842551127
Local notes
15-year-old Savannah Grey has settled into her latest foster placement, but strange things start happening and she discovers she has supernatural powers. Meanwhile, she feels drawn to the new boy Reece whose life is even stranger than hers. They are on course to meet the vile and evil Ocrassa, who wants to destroy the world by corrupting nature. And it wants Savannah Grey to help realise its savage intent.
Faintly ridiculous story about the great 'throat weapon' with three quite unbelievable teenage protagonists.
Faintly ridiculous story about the great 'throat weapon' with three quite unbelievable teenage protagonists.