Deficient

By: Michael Solis

Narrated by: Benjamin Koenig

The near future is progressively free from discrimination based on race, class, and sexual orientation. But in a world populated by the gifted, 15-year-old Alejandro Aragon (Alé) is part of the only remaining minority—he’s a Deficient. Powerless. The one that accelerated genetics left behind.

Alé knows that he’ll need a miracle to graduate and pursue his dream of a legal career in the capital. His only ally is his best friend Yalamba, an outspoken and exceptionally gifted artist renowned for her unique ability to draw things into existence. But when she’s kidnapped in a hate crime against her ability, it appears that Alé has every motive and no believable alibi.

To prove his innocence and track down the real culprit, Alé teams up with the other outcasts in school, who each have their own reasons for getting involved. But the deeper they dig, the more they fear Yalamba’s kidnapping is linked to a string of unsolved murders against the exceptionally gifted.

With time running out, Alé must discover who he really is if he and his new friends plan to track down the culprit, clear his name, and rescue Yalamba—all before she herself is drawn out of existence.

©2023 Michael Solis & BHC Press (P)2023 Michael Solis & BHC Press

Good story, annoying narrator trait

This is a good YA coming-of-age story that zips along with plenty of memorable characters -- you won't go wrong there.

The overall performance of the narrator was good, acting-wise, but he has that tendency to go out of his way to pronounce every syllable very precisely. Generally, that's not a bad thing, but when it affects the flow and rhythm of the reading, well, now it's gone too far. That's what happens here, I'm afraid. It becomes distracting and takes away from the storytelling. Other than that, this is a solid title.

Interesting take on a mystery novel

Deficient has a bit of a slow start, but once it gets going, it's hard to put down! I found the lead, Alé, to be a good perspective of Achewon Academy. The supporting cast, Kazuki, Yalamba, Gwen, Mixed and even Landon are complex and, ultimately, loveable. I'm looking forward to reading more from Michael Solis.

compelling story

this book was a joy to dive into. i love how character-driven the story is. michael created an epic world to explore without making it too difficult to follow along. the story arc has a great crescendo and i found the plot to be very exciting and satisfying. michael had a story to tell. what a debut!

Gripping story for all ages!

A thrilling and fast paced story for all ages. My sons loved the narration and listened to the entire story in a matter of days - asking every morning and evening to listen! The characters are diverse and well developed and the world building narrative is gripping for the whole family.