Fade
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A lot or a little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that in this story focuses on an otherwise good boy who succumbs to temptation, spies on people, and even commits murder but reforms. It also includes a vivid portrayal of Depression-era working conditions. Too long for reluctant readers, this is nonetheless a fascinating horror and morality story, with sensitive character portrayals punctuated by increasingly intense action.
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- Kids say
Sick Trash!
Review of 'Fade' by Robert Cormier, 1988
good for teens and up
What's the story?
In this supernatural morality tale thirteen-year-old Paul discovers he can become invisible, but quickly learns that it brings only evil to his life. He spies on people and sees shocking things, then kills for revenge. Vowing never to use his power again, he later confronts his long-lost nephew, who uses the power to commit multiple murders. Suspenseful, intense, and disturbing.
Is it any good?
FADE offers a subject that intrigues teenagers, who can read it as a simple, dark suspense novel if they wish; however, as is usual with Cormier's books, much more lies below the surface. What child hasn't dreamed of becoming invisible? Robert Cormier explores its consequences in this cautionary tale of a good boy who succumbs to temptation, then repents.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about the notion of becoming invisible. What could be come positive consequences of being invisible? What might be some negative results?
Book details
- Author: Robert Cormier
- Genre: Fantasy
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Laurel-Leaf
- Publication date: January 1, 1988
- Number of pages: 293
- Last updated: September 23, 2015
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