The Disappeared by C.J. Harper

Book of the Week: 26 April 2015

The Disappeared is a dystopian adventure with plenty of action and suspense. Jackson is a high-achiever, destined for life as a member of the elite, when his fortunes change. All official records confirming his identity are mysteriously wiped out and he is imprisoned in an academy. This is his first introduction to the classroom:

“Because the seats are sunk into the floor I have a clear view of where there is a space in the grid. There’s only one gap, on the far side of the room. I make my way carefully between the metal walls till I reach the vacant compartment. I struggle with the catch to open the tiny door and sit in the sunken seat. I look up at the teacher. Her cage is mounted to the wall and made of metal; the gaps between the bars are so narrow that I can only make her out in long thin sections.”

In these metal compartments students are controlled by electric shock treatments if they disobey the Enforcers (teachers) or Impeccables (a brutal type of prefect). Jackson has to try and survive in this violent and segregated world where his fellow students are deprived of food and even of language. One of the most memorable aspects of the book is how students have barely any vocabulary and find it almost impossible to imagine any other way of life. However, as Jackson finds out, this doesn’t mean they are stupid,and when he gets to know some of his fellow students, Kay and Ilex, hope starts to grow that their situation might be capable of change. If only they can escape.

If you enjoy fast-moving plots and futuristic adventures such as The Hunger Games, then try The Disappeared. There is a sequel called The Wilderness already in stock in the Library.