Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Designer genes drive suspenseful sci-fi thriller.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Even though they were born two years apart, Connor and Kyle are identical twins, Kyle having been kept frozen as an embryo for a couple of extra years. Everything comes easily to brilliant, handsome, motivated Connor, and Kyle resents him for his good grades, athletic ability, and beautiful girlfriend. But when Conor suddenly dies of heart failure, Kyle launches a quest to discover why it happened. Gradually, he learns that his own life is in danger -- that the genetic time bomb that claimed Conor's life is ticking down his own life expectancy.
Is It Any Good?
The dangers of genetic manipulation drive this suspenseful medical thriller. Author Debra Dockter sets up an intriguing scenario and follows it to its satisfying, action-packed conclusion. And there are plenty of plot twists along the way. DEADLY DESIGN raises fascinating questions about the ethics of tampering with the human genome, even if it plays a little fast and loose with how far the technology has progressed at this time.
The relationship between Kyle and his girlfriend Cami develops in realistic and sensitive fashion, free of the needless drama that sometimes afflicts couples in similar books.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the possible advantages and dangers of genetic engineering. Which precautions should be taken so the technology is not misused?
How is Deadly Design different from or similar to other medical thrillers you've read? What makes a successful thriller?
What does it feel like to be constantly compared to a sibling? How can a person assert his or her individuality without causing disruption in the family?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Adventures , School ( High School ) , STEM
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Putnam Juvenile
- Publication date : June 2, 2015
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 17
- Number of pages : 368
- Available on : Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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