Hybrids, David Thorpe

2007, HarperCollins

304 pages

Young Adult: Science Fiction

Set in a world like our own, in a place where a virus causes body parts to take on the form of technology, David Thorpe teaches not to judge by appearances alone.

The virus took away Johnny's face. The computer screen replacement has those of the Centre for Genetic Rehabilitation unit seeking him out, since he refuses to register as a hybrid and let his whereabouts be put under constant surveillance. Kestrella, daughter of a man who plays a role in this story, crosses paths with Johnny, changing his life forever. Intially he sees their encounter as a negative one, but over the course of the story he gains an unbreakable bond with her, while taking actions to help others.

I haven't read much sci-fi recently, and seem to have the initial reaction of wanting to put a book down when things are a bit strange (having a phone instead of a hand is strange in Kestrella's character). However, it was the character's attitudes to their changes which drew me in. They usually didn't see them as an impediment. Yes, the differences were something to hide at times, but most of the time they just got on with it. I think this is a brilliant book for those who are different from so-called 'normal' people. It doesn't stop them loving, or being loved. It doesn't stop them from making a difference in the world.

I couldn't predict where this story took me, and thoroughly enjoyed the biggest twist at the end. I'm one of those readers who wants 'more' from a book, and it would be great to see another book carrying on with the story where it ended here. For it isn't really the end at all, but another beginning.

Paperclip rating: 0

Tissue rating: 2

Overall rating: 5. I want this on my bookshelf!