Title: ForeverChild: a Novel of the Future

Author: Mark Lavine

Genre: YA Science Fiction

In Mark Lavine’s ForeverChild: a Novel of the Future, we are introduced to a world 300 years in the future, where some people are caught in a seemingly endless childhood, while others are not. In this new world, two boys, Seelin and Kianno, are switched, and thirty years later, they find themselves having to face their pasts, despite living a different life all these years. Much more is at stake than their own identities, however, for the two factions of humans barely live in harmony, and war looms.

ForeverChild has all the elements of a solid science fiction novel: set in a futuristic world where life is quite changed, technology that has advanced beyond our current ability, and a dystopian feel. As the protagonists start out young, it can be considered young adult, but the main characters, even as foreverchildren, although appearing young, are much older. Still, the story has elements of The Hunger Games and Divergent trilogies, so fans of these genres will likely enjoy ForeverChild.

Because the earth on which the story unfolds is in the future, society is structured differently. The reader may need a few chapters to acclimate to the setting and understand what is going on. Several times, the author describes the experiments that are being carried out on humans. Although this is obviously fiction, a fair warning to readers who may be triggered by the mention of human experimentation, especially on the very young, may be advised.

There are different groups in both the foreverchildren and in the “naturalists,” as they are called by the foreverchildren. Once it becomes clearer who is on which side, the story grows more and more interesting and intricate. We see the political unrest at the highest levels and the corruption that comes with power in humanity, no matter the century, but we also see the beauty of devotion, true love, and fighting for what is right, especially at the personal level. Some characters are willing to risk their lives in pursuit of truth and equality.

It is at the personal level that Lavine really strikes the reader’s heart and soul. We feel invested in Seelin, Kianno, and others in their lives, even though they may seem at odds. Stories where the everyday underdog is the hidden hero who rises up and goes against the grain are inspiring and reminiscent of those who bravely fought in the underground resistance of World War II. That the author can recreate the same impression in a future imaginary society should be applauded.

This book could use a bit more editorial polish throughout, but it does not detract from the enjoyment of the story.

ForeverChild is a compelling dystopian YA novel that will immerse the reader. Lovers of pure science fiction are sure to be drawn into the worldbuilding Lavine has crafted. The characters are the true heart of ForeverChild, and the steady plot keeps the reader’s attention throughout.

This Editorial Review was written by the Book Review Directory staff. To receive a similarly honest, professional review for one of your own books, click here.