Each chapter focusses on a different teenager with odd powers and, as the story builds, the twisted web that draws them together strengthens, as does the story's pace.
Ethan, known as Scam, has a voice inside him he can't control, one that says whatever it needs to get what he wants, even if it means alienating everyone Ethan cares about. Crash can literally melt every powered unit in her vicinity. Flicker is blind but sees through the eyes of those around her. Bellwether can twist the thoughts of people in a crowd to his own way of thinking. My favourite is Anon whose strength is his ability not to be noticed but his power is so strong, even his family can't remember him.
The plot, being so complicated, takes time to set up but once the players are in place the pages fly as misfired powers cause all sorts of mayhem. I was enjoying the stark differences between each quirky character when suddenly the world went more pear-shaped than usual.
Scott Westerfeld, Margo Flanagan and Deborah Biancotti are award-winning authors who have clearly had a whole lot of fun creating this hi-jinks high action rollercoaster.
If there is one thing for certain, there is no guarantee with the Zeroes.
Title: Zeroes
Author: Scott Westerfeld, Margo Lanagan, Deborah Biancotti
Publisher: Allen & Unwin, $19.99
Publication Date: 1 October 2015
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781925266955
For ages: 14 years +
Type: Young Adult
