The Paradise Generation by Sanna Thompson is a gripping young adult dystopian novel that delivers high stakes, emotional depth, and a meticulously crafted world. Shortlisted for the Storylines Tessa Duder Award, this standalone novel explores the cost of survival in a society that promises perfection but enforces rigid control.
The story follows Kieran, a teenager who once abandoned reckless rule-breaking after a tragic accident left his cousin, Lucas, in hospital. Now, with Lucas’s Allocated recovery time nearly over, Kieran faces an impossible choice: accept the system’s cold efficiency or risk everything to save his cousin. What follows is a tense, fast-paced journey of rebellion, love, and truth-seeking, as Kieran teams up with Mira—a girl with her own reasons to defy the laws—to uncover secrets that could either save Lucas or cost them both their lives.
Thompson’s world-building is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Set in a future beyond climate catastrophe and disease, the world of The Paradise Generation appears utopian on the surface, yet its stark inequalities and strict regulations quickly become apparent. The detailed setting, inspired by a futuristic Wellington, adds an extra layer of realism, making the story feel both immersive and unsettlingly plausible. The rules that govern society—particularly around health, relationships, and personal agency—raise thought-provoking questions about morality, autonomy, and what it truly means to live in a “paradise.”
Kieran is a compelling protagonist, driven by guilt, determination, and an unwavering loyalty to his cousin. His internal struggles make him deeply relatable, while his growing bond with Mira adds emotional weight to the narrative. Their relationship, outlawed by their society, introduces a forbidden romance element that will appeal to fans of both dystopian fiction and love stories. The romance, however, never overshadows the central conflict; rather, it enhances Kieran’s journey by providing moments of warmth and humanity amid the chaos.
The pacing is relentless, with each chapter upping the stakes and yanking readers deeper into Kieran’s fight against an unyielding system. Midnight break-ins, underground networks, and the ever-present threat of discovery create an atmosphere of constant tension. Yet, amidst the action, Thompson never loses sight of the novel’s emotional core. The characters’ struggles with grief, duty, and defiance make the story resonate beyond its dystopian setting.
For readers who enjoy young adult dystopian fiction, The Paradise Generation is a must-read. Its combination of thrilling action, intricate world-building, and compelling character development makes it stand out in the genre. Fans of the genre will find much to love here, as will those who appreciate stories that challenge societal norms and explore what it means to fight for the people we love.
With The Paradise Generation, Sanna Thompson proves herself to be a formidable new voice in young adult literature. This novel is an unforgettable ride from start to finish—difficult to put down and nigh on impossible to forget.
Reviewer: Chris Reed
umop apisdn press