Scythe

In a dystopian future where disease, war, and crime have been eradicated, humanity faces an unsettling reality: death is now a controlled phenomenon. Professional scythes, tasked with gleaning individuals at random, maintain the delicate balance of life and mortality. Scythe by Neal Shusterman delves into this thought-provoking landscape through the eyes of two reluctant apprentices, Citra and Rowan.

The Plot

Citra and Rowan are thrust into the dark and morally complex world of scythe training against their will. As they grapple with the ethical dilemmas of their new roles, they uncover the corruption lurking within the Scythedom. The competition to become a full-fledged scythe is fierce, and with only one of them destined to succeed, the stakes grow ever higher. The narrative masterfully intertwines themes of life, death, and the meaning of mortality, provoking readers to reflect on the value of existence.

Themes

• Morality and Ethics: The novel challenges the reader to ponder the implications of a world without natural death.
• Power and Corruption: It explores how systems of control can become tainted.
• Friendship and Betrayal: The bond between Citra and Rowan is tested as they navigate their training.

"In a world where everything is perfect, what does it mean to be human?"

Shusterman’s compelling prose and intricate world-building invite comparisons to other young adult dystopian works, such as The Hunger Games and Divergent. Scythe stands out as a gripping exploration of existential themes, leaving readers questioning the very nature of life and death.