65 pages • 2 hours read
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256
Novel • Fiction
Underground Bunker • Future
2008
Feiwel & Friends
YA
12+ years
570L
In S.A. Bodeen's 2008 young adult novel The Compound, sixteen-year-old Eli and his family have lived in an underground compound for six years, believing a nuclear attack has destroyed the outside world. As resources dwindle and suspicions about their father's motives grow, Eli discovers the truth about their situation and ultimately leads his family to escape. The book contains themes involving the treatment of "supplements" as commodities, which may evoke strong emotional responses.
Suspenseful
Dark
Unnerving
Mysterious
Emotional
24,788 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Compound by S.A. Bodeen offers a gripping and suspenseful narrative, appealing to young adult readers with its fast-paced storyline and intriguing premise. While praised for its originality and tension, some reviewers noted predictable plot twists and underdeveloped characters. Overall, it delivers a thrilling read but might fall short for those seeking deep character exploration.
Fans of dystopian thrillers and survival stories will enjoy S.A. Bodeen's The Compound. Readers who appreciated Suzanne Collins's The Hunger Games and Lois Lowry's The Giver will find themselves captivated by the tense atmosphere and psychological depth. Ideal for teens and young adults seeking intense, thought-provoking narratives.
24,788 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Rex Yanakakis
An eccentric billionaire who manipulates his family into living in an underground Compound, viewing them as part of a larger experiment.
Lexie
Eli’s adopted sister, who seeks material comforts and strives for their father Rex's approval, becoming involved in his experimental plans.
Terese
Eli’s sister, who follows routines and expresses skepticism about their father's intentions, often challenging Eli’s perceptions.
Clea Yanakakis
A talented cellist and nurturing mother who supports her children’s individuality and opposes her husband's manipulative schemes.
Eddy Yanakakis
Eli’s twin brother, remembered for his kind nature and charisma, whose absence profoundly affects Eli’s life and sense of self.
The Compound by S.A. Bodeen is inspired by real-life underground survival bunkers designed to withstand potential disasters, reflecting increasing societal interest in preparedness and survivalism.
The book explores themes of trust, family dynamics, and ethical boundaries within a confined setting, making it a popular choice for discussions on moral dilemmas in young adult literature courses.
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S.A. Bodeen's storytelling in The Compound is praised for creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that enhances the psychological tension experienced by its characters.
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256
Novel • Fiction
Underground Bunker • Future
2008
Feiwel & Friends
YA
12+ years
570L
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