Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25

By: Richard Paul Evans

Narrated by: Fred Berman

Length: 9 hrs and 18 mins

Publisher's summary

My name is Michael Vey, and the story I'm about to tell you is strange. Very strange. It's my story."

To everyone at Meridian High School, Michael Vey is an ordinary 14-year-old. In fact, the only thing that seems to set him apart is the fact that he has Tourette's syndrome. But Michael is anything but ordinary. Michael has special powers. Electric powers.

Michael thinks he's unique until he discovers that a cheerleader named Taylor also has special powers. With the help of Michael's friend, Ostin, the three of them set out to discover how Michael and Taylor ended up this way, but their investigation brings them to the attention of a powerful group who wants to control the electric children - and through them, the world. Michael will have to rely on his wits, powers, and friends if he's to survive.

©2011 Simon and Schuster (P)2011 Richard Paul Evans

Hunger games + Percy Jackson with a twist of X-men

What did you love best about Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25?

Every character in this story, including the bad guys was well developed, highly visual and amazingly independent of each other's descriptions. Often in YA when there are many characters, some of them are interchangeable and their voices are weak. Not so here. As the narrator, not very versed at multiple voices, spoke for each character, it was clear who each was.

I also loved that the characters stayed true, or found the truth in the face of loyalty, integrity and teamwork. This book really plays on those themes and not in a cheesy or forceful way. the way Michael interacts with bullies, with not powered and the way he holds true to his own beliefs despite torture is amazing. While the story is not traumatizing for YA readers, it is very clear that there is a role model in Michael for those who may be bullied in real life.

and it's not just Michael. His friends are amazing. I love Austin. He's so funny and geeky and absolutely indispensable to Michael and Taylor. I really can't wait for the next book. Imagine my joy when I found out it was only a month away!

What did you like best about this story?

The language matched the premise and the characters were consistent as was the story line. That's hard to fins in YA sometimes. For example, Hunger games was a great premise and had several interesting characters, but the language and sequences did not match the premise of children being forced to kill each other for the glory of their district. It was mold and not quite believable. I think it was one of the few times the movie did a better job than the book. With Michael vay, I hope they make a movie, but I fear they can do it justice.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

In a time when loyalty is shocking, meet Michael Vey. (lame, but jeeze, you sprung this on me :)

Any additional comments?

if you liked percy jackson., you will like this book. If you didn't like percy jackson, you will like this book. If you like hunger games, you will like this book. If you like the x-me, you will like this book. If you liked the Maximum ride books, you will like this book.

decent adolescent adventure

good book for teenagers. Would recommend it to teen ages who are reading pulp fiction

Good series for adults, too!

I love a good series. Good versus evil. The ethics and morals needed when new technology enters our world.

Brie was right, its pretty good.

Pros

- Fun Story
- interesting Character
- an excuse to talk to Brie (as if i need any more)
- Ostin

Cons

- Now i have to get the rest of the series
- Its written for a younger audience (teens). at times it shows.
- Its bad to hate........ But Hatch is easy to hate (yes this is probably a pro, but its my list)
- Some of the character writings a bit cliche and on the nose, but its still okay

overall its really good i would recommend

Awesome Story

I loved everything, the characters, the story and hiw it evolved. English is not my native language and still it wss very easy to understand.

must listen or read

I loved it. good book and good voice guy. Got my attention all the way to the end.

Worth Remembering

I have read this book cover to back many times I love this story and how it portrays its characters. Can't wait to read more in this collection.

far better than had Harry Potter

bought it based upon hearing an interview with the writer. terrific story with a great narration

prisoner

Great story
Great overall read
Suitable through grade 9 through adulthood. I need 3 more words.

great book!

awesome family friendly book. no swearing! tons of adventure! it was a hit for all ages and narrator was great!! this is a win!