Masterminds by Gordon Korman

Title:  Masterminds

Author:  Gordon Korman

I have a love/hate relationship with series.  I love how a series can truly help develop a character.  With that being said, when a series ends I always experience a deep sadness.  It is like your best friend is moving away and you know that you may never see them again.

After reading series such as Harry Potter, The Maze Runner, The Uglies, The Hunger Games, I had the hardest time finding a new book to be excited about. I recently picked up Masterminds by Gordon Korman and immediately fell in love with the characters and plot line of this novel.  

This book is the perfect mix of science fiction and mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat.  Gordon Korman creates a book that is so full of unexpected twists and turns that it is impossible to predict what will happen next.  This book is exciting and kid-friendly which can be hard to find in young adult literature.

Please comment below if you have read it and let me know what  you think!

• Age Range: 8 - 12 years
• Grade Level: 3 - 7
• Series: Masterminds (Book 1)
• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Balzer + Bray; Reprint edition (February 2, 2016)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0062299999
• ISBN-13: 978-0062299994
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From School Library Journal

Gr 4–6—Serenity, New Mexico is an idyllic community for all its inhabitants. Everyone has everything they need and no one lies. As the local newspaper boasts, "Serenity Voted #1 in USA for standard of living." Eli has always been happy with his life and never had any reason to want to leave. One day though, while on a bike ride past the outskirts of town with his best friend Randy, Eli begins to feel sick. When he recovers from his illness he discovers that Randy, who convinced him to ride out, has to leave town. Randy tells everyone that he is going to his grandparents' house, but he is acting strange and no longer wants to hang out with Eli. After Randy leaves, Eli finds a note that makes him realize this may not be the perfect town after all. Eli and a few friends begin to uncover secrets and discover that honesty may not be at the heart of Serenity. They also realize that they can't trust anyone, especially not their parents. Korman has created a fun and creative story that delves into the philosophy of what makes us human and whether or not we are defined by our circumstances. Told in alternating voices, readers will get insight into life in Serenity and make life-changing discoveries with the characters. This unique and action-packed story is filled with twists and turns that readers will not see coming. A wonderful start to what promises to be a thrilling series.—Kristyn Dorfman, The Packer Collegiate Institute, Brooklyn, NY --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

For teachers - Masterminds Reading Guide