The Limit
Looking for something new to read based in a futuristic world that could very well be real? Look no further than The Limit by Kristen Landon. With reviews by science fiction authors James Dashner and Margaret Peterson Haddix, The Limit was a fast-paced thriller that I truly enjoyed.
Thirteen-year-old Matt’s biggest worry was beating his friends at their made-up basketball game, until his family unexpectedly goes over their financial limit (imposed by the government) and Matt, like many other kids, is sent to a government work house to help pay off his family’s debt. Soon, Matt learns that all is not as it seems and with the help of some new friends tries to escape.
I really enjoyed this science fiction book, but could also see something like this happening in the real world, which is a little scary. With debit cards for the whole family, eye scans to verify identification, Matt’s world is not too far off. Matt is a believable character making up names for the people running the work house like Honey Lady, Gorilla Man, and Crab Woman. I also enjoyed this as a stand-alone novel amidst the field of trilogies and series, it’s nice to read a story and be able to finish it without waiting for the next book. But, I think what I enjoyed most throughout the story was the internal struggle of Matt and the kids on the Top Floor who were punished because of their parent’s spending. Without choosing to, they are sent to this place where ordering food, clothing, games, sporting equipment, etc. is very easy and puts their family in even more debt. Do these kids choose to try and help their families to be reunited again or do they make themselves as happy as they can and let their parents deal with the consequences. It’s an interesting battle that runs throughout the storyline, sometimes coming to the forefront, but always lingering in the background.
For more information about Kristen Landon, check out her website!
Title: The Limit
Author: Kristen Landon
Publisher: Aladdin
Publication Date: 2010
Page Number: 291 pgs.