Some people would kill to live forever…would you?
I’ve read a lot of books this summer, but there is one that stands out to me as an amazing read for teens (and adults, although I’m 
not sure they’d appreciate it as much). I highly recommend The Resistance by Gemma Malley.
The Setting
In 2140 the world has an aging population, who are living forever with the assistance of medication. Drastically extended life spans have resulted in overpopulation and a lack of natural resources. In response to these issues laws are made regarding procreation, which quickly becomes illegal and standard of living is reduced as they make room for “progress” by giving up homes for small apartments. Illegal children (called Surpluses) are kept in prisons and taught that their existence is a sin.
Plot
Peter and Anna grew up as Surpluses but they have been given legal status (this adventure was presumably the plot of the Declaration) and now they are trying to fit in among the general population. They are mistrusted and mistreated because of their youth and begin to question why they wanted to become legal. Peter takes a job at Pincent Pharma
The company is responsible for Longevity+ – a drug rumoured to reverse the ageing process. But there is more to the drug than Peter and Anna could have ever imagined
He takes the job with the intention of spying on the pharmaceutical company for the rebels, but his co-workers are persuasive about the benefits of eternal life and he loses track of his goals.
What you’ll like
- fast-paced action
- the recognition that young people are important
- raises a lot philosophical questions
Library Services 4 SA Teens 