Review of Thumped

Hello everyone!

I recently read the book Thumped, sequel to Bumped, both by Megan McCafferty (author of the amazing Jessica Darling series). Overall, I really, really liked the book. I think it was maybe even better than Bumped, not that it's a contest. The pacing was really great -- the story flowed well and there was never a dull moment.  Let's discuss...

First of all, I have to say, even though I read Bumped, the futuristic lingo in Thumped still threw me off a little bit. It was hard to get used to at first, but eventually I did. So, if you start out reading it and find yourself getting confused, press on! It will all make sense, too, I promise. One of the words...reproasthetical or something like that...especially threw me off. How do you even pronounce that!?

On the other hand, I thought the lingo was a really creative way to show just how obsessed this futuristic culture is with reproduction and fertility. After all, language often reflects the preoccupations and values of a culture.

Speaking of which, I think this book presents some really interesting ideas about sex and, surprisingly, about religion. This was a part of Bumped too, but I think these themes were further developed in Thumped, especially the discussion of religion. You wouldn't expect that to be part of a young adult novel about sex, right!? But it is. However, I never felt like the author was preaching to me, or that she was glorifying a religious lifestyle over a non religious one, or vice versa. Basically, the message I got from the book regarding religion (and a lot of other things, actually) was that your life is your decision, not anyone else's and it's in your control.

Speaking of messages, I also liked another idea presented in the book, which is that you have to consider the people involved in a situation or an issue, not just the issue itself. For example, in the book Zen gets so involved in his movement to stop "bumping" that he sometimes forgets to consider the people involved, like the couples who really want to adopt children. I think that's an important idea to remember, especially in the United States, where we are often fiercely divided on certain issues.

Anyway, back to the book...As you can see, it's a very thought-provoking read, but it's fun at the same time. The book has some great humor and very likable, lively characters. It also delivers (heh) a satisfying ending, and if you enjoyed Bumped, I think you'll really enjoy Thumped as well.

PS. Did you know I'm giving away my copy of Thumped!? It's true! Enter here.