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Jul 20, 2012graceling3 rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
Scary. And for all those others out there who are like me (in the gruesome process of trying to get the highest scores possible on the SAT/ACT/AP and maintain a 4.0 GPA along with good solid extracurriculars in school and out of school), then this is definitely the college admissions process elevated to an entirely new level. In McLaughlin's world, a corporation (just like one of those hated testing comparies today) assigns the students a score-- although you can choose to be scored or unscored, but the unscored are seen as the dirt of society-- which determines your future college, profession, salary, lifestyle, etc. How is this score determined? On a "formula" which the corp. possesses, based on five aspects of human interaction; and the company spies on all individuals through "eyes" all around the community. Imani's development throughout the book is nicely written; she is a strong character with flaws, and the author handled her change expertly. However, I do think the actions of the foil, Deigo, could have been more polished. Also, the ending was beautiful. This book is wonderful as a stand-alone; no followups needed whatsoever.