Book Review: How We Became Wicked by Brandi Yates
From the moment I laid eyes on the cover of How We Became Wicked, I felt a pull—a visceral connection to a dystopian world intertwined with themes of survival, morality, and identity. I’ve always been attracted to stories that venture into the uncanny, and Brandi Yates’ novel delivers just that, confronting the reader with a tagline that posed the intriguing question: "What does it mean to be wicked?"
At its heart, How We Became Wicked throws us into the chaotic aftermath of an insect-borne plague named "Wickedness," which has divided humanity into three distinct groups: the healthy "Trues," the infected "Wickeds," and the fortunate "Vexed." Each faction reflects varying responses to fear and survival, illuminating our own societal divides, all while Yates masterfully weaves in humor and absurdity amidst the horror. The characterization of three sixteen-year-olds—Astrid, Hank, and Natalie—profoundly resonated with me. They are depicted not just as survivors, but as messengers of understanding the complexities of human nature.
Yates’ writing style is fluid and accessible, drawing readers into the narrative seamlessly. I couldn’t help but be captivated by the way she effortlessly juxtaposes moments of dread with absurdity. One particularly poignant line captured it perfectly: “The Wicked always ask politely first.” This clever blend of humor with terror left me both chuckling and cringing, reflecting the ambiguity of right and wrong in the face of human instinct.
While reading, I couldn’t help but be reminded of stories like The Hunger Games and The Road but Yates has crafted a tale that feels both fresh and unnervingly relevant. The world she created is rich in vivid imagery and deeply layered with moral quandaries. Even as the characters grapple with their plight, they lead us in questioning whether true wickedness resides in the infected or perhaps in those who can turn a blind eye.
The pacing of the book was well-structured, and I found myself propelled through the pages, desperate to unveil the twists Yates so cleverly interspersed throughout. As one reviewer aptly stated, the "twist was fabulous and well done," leaving my heart racing at the revelations and urging for a sequel, which I believe many readers, like me, found themselves craving as the acknowledgments rolled to a close. The evocative prose and deft storytelling amplify a strong commentary on empathy and humanity, elements that are increasingly significant in our contemporary landscape.
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of dystopian literature infused with humor, moral complexity, and heart-stopping thrills, How We Became Wicked is an adventure you won’t want to miss. It’s a tale that will resonate with teens and adults alike—reminding us of our capacity for both wickedness and compassion in our darkest times. My reading experience felt profound; it left me reflecting on my own life’s complexities, meaning, and moral choices. So, do yourself a favor: grab a copy, settle in, and prepare for a journey that will keep you questioning what it truly means to be wicked.