I have to admit, science fiction books are not always my first ‘go-to’. But when Burrowed, by Mary Baader Kaley, was shared with our ARC group, #BookPosse, I thought…’why not?’. I was ready to read something new.
Burrowed was published in January, and you can read more about the author and her work on her website. The new author and new book remind me to try ‘NEW’. As a reader, I can get stuck in the authors/genres I know and love. When it comes to science fiction, fantasy, or even dystopian literature, I sometimes close myself off to a great book because my inner voice closes the door before I’ve even opened the cover. I just get too comfortable with what I’ve read in the past.
Well, let’s just say Burrowed is a brilliantly crafted dystopian book that readers will love. Personally, I’d recommend grade 7 – adult. The main character, Zuzan Cayan, is a Subter girl who has no family, lives below ground, suffers from ‘light blindness,’ and has low life expectancy, all which impact the kind of job and opportunities she’ll be able to experience. However, none of the negative circumstances, or evil forces in her life, stop her from helping others, healing others, and handling incredible danger. She is in a race against time, and must find a way to come up with a cure for a life threatening illness that will most certainly destroy not only the people she loves, but their entire population.
In the ‘post’ COVID world we live in, it was intriguing to think about a future society in which they are dealing with limited information, evil motives, genetics, and harsh divisions amongst humanity. This futuristic life and death drama will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final page. Kaley’s writing is tight, unexpected and riveting. “May good health find you always” is a common greeting and sentiment. Dystopian or otherwise, this book is a true testament to relationships, the power to make a difference, and to advocate for others in our care.
If you liked Uglies (Westerfield), The Hunger Games (Collins), or Divergent (Roth), you will most surely enjoy Burrowed. But, consider NEW. Maybe it’s time to try reading a genre or author you’ve never encountered before.
