So, I finished Across The Universe- Beth Revis. And I really liked it, ALOT. And I really want to write an intelligent and thoughtful review.( I can do those sometimes )

Try as I might, I just cant write a review to compete with Kayla’s. Not that I want too mind you…so I say, lets just post Kayla’s awesome review and be done with it. She does sum it up SO beautifully

So here it tis folks! As first seen on Penguin’s awesome blog BTL.

Beth Revis’ novel – ‘Across the Universe’ is full of unique concepts, mystery, alienating behaviors and futuristic ideas. This book could not be published at a better time- as our planet faces environmental issues such as global warming, pollution, air contamination, oil spills, and etc- we wonder what would happen to everything living if Earth could no longer be lived on. ’Across the Universe’ provides a believable answer to this question- we come across an alternative planet, build a huge ship to get there, and leave. The story is set on the space ship ‘Godspeed’ packed with thousands of people 251 years into their journey to a new planet.

Aimed at readers 12 and older, Beth Revis writes with compassion, clear imagery and a completely original take on the lifestyles of people living hundreds of years from now. Technology, medical and multiple scientific advancements evoke amazement- the ship runs smoothly from the success of these developments in both positive and negative ways- it is here that the element of mystery is strongest, and the plot thickens. Many of the things humans take for granted on Earth are sacrificed on ‘the Godspeed’ for the sake of efficiency, including a number of universal rights. Other fundamentals compromised include religion and race- these are discarded in fear of discord. The stars hold much significance throughout the novel- they are symbolic of hope and are a strong reminder of how trapped the people of ‘the Godspeed’ really are.

Main characters Amy and Elder could not be more different- Amy is from Earth, accidentally woken from frozen animation, and Elder is the future leader of the ship and was born and raised there. It is their vast differences and contrasts that essentially bring them together- the chemistry between them is undeniable. Amy’s past tugs violently at her emotions as she struggles to come to terms with the strange social structure and lifestyle the people of ‘Godspeed’ lead. Elder attempts to dodge the lies and secrets the ‘Godspeed’ is riddled with to find the truth behind them- desperate to become the best leader he can be. Both characters immerse themselves in solving the murder mystery that threatens the lives of hundreds- and it is in their pursuit of the killer that unspeakable reality comes to the surface and the truths they seek are found.

A truly individual perspective on the future and the possibilities it holds- ‘Across the Universe’ will have you quite literally holding your breath and on the very edge of your seat. (I’m pleased to report, in the near future, THAT cliché wont change).

Kayla