A review by ashylibrarian
Gone Wolf by Amber McBride

challenging dark emotional sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Wow...This book is a powerhouse of emotion.

Amber McBride created a dystopian story that so closely mirrors the society in which we currently live. Imogen's character portrays so much fear and emotion, determination to learn and understand. It was heartbreaking to read the raw fear that was built up inside her, knowing that those fears are very real for many Black and minority youth today.

McBride's writing is raw, beautiful, and emotion-filled. I am excited to explore more of her work.

Gone Wolf begins in a futuristic world where a young girl, known only as Inmate Eleven, is confined to a small-small room to be kept as a biological match to the President’s son should he become ill. She is also called a Blue because that is the color of her skin and hair due to all of her sadness. In present time, Imogen is living during the pandemic and is struggling with intense phobias and horrific nightmares. She has distanced herself from everyone but her mother and therapist until she meets a college student who helps her question the difference between being Blue and being Black. With writing so full of power, emotion, and consideration, readers will likely see a connection from the book to fear and racial injustices that are happening in our world today. This is a heavy and timely read, and it will hopefully empower young readers to use their voices and share their stories. 

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