But then her secret is discovered when she’s overwhelmed by the emotion of an ancient piece of music. She has survived so far by hiding her differences. Thalli is an anomaly, born with the ability to feel emotions and a sense of curiosity she can barely contain. There they created genetically engineered human beings who are free of emotions in the hope that war won’t threaten the world again. But life continued deep underground, thanks to a handful of scientists known as The Ten.

But she is not afraid.ĭecades before Thalli’s birth, the world was decimated by a nuclear war. The toxic gas that will complete her annihilation is invading her bloodstream. '.with sparks of wit, the story offers a positive message about being true to oneself.Thalli has fifteen minutes and twenty-three seconds to live. Although reality shows and religion dont usually mix, this text blends both well and serves up Addy as a believable and endearing heroine. Short transcripts of interviews with the show's participants are sprinkled between chapters, underscoring the vapid nature of the other girls. Relying on Christianity, Addy musters the courage to persevere, just like her deceased missionary parents, who are referenced throughout. Addys positive attention attracts some serious nastiness from her competitors and the shows director, Hank, which convinces Addy that her purpose on the show is to really share her faith. Looking to be sent home quickly, unlike the other 99 girls, Addy doesnt fawn over the First Son and instead chooses to just be herself, which, to her dismay, endears her to viewers and prolongs her stay. So when her principal taps her to represent her school on the new reality TV show The Book of Love, Addy isnt thrilled, despite the shows prize of a date to the prom with Jonathon Jackson, the son of the president of the United States.

Getting good grades and into an Ivy League college are 17-year-old Addys two goals in life. This light teenage romance with a reality-show twist is entertaining and forgivably predictable.

'McGees debut novel is an absolute gem.' 'Anyone who enjoys reality television and a well-told story shouldnt hesitate to read this great book. '.a touching, fun, edifying, campy, quick and downright delicious teen read.'.

First date by krista mcgee