Impulse
Parents say
Based on 1 review
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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 Impulse is a continuation of the story that began in the classic YA science fiction novel Jumper. Main character Cent is a well-rounded, brave, tenderhearted 16-year-old who sticks up for the underdog and even finds empathy for some of her enemies. Although there's little depiction of bloodshed except in one scene of a shoot-out, the threat of violence hangs over the whole novel, as characters are bullied and assaulted. A group of freshmen is blackmailed by a sex tape. There's also some kissing, and birth control is discussed. And there's a fair bit of strong language, including more than a dozen uses of "f--k."
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What's the Story?
Like her parents Davy and Millie, Cent (short for \"Millicent\") is able to \"jump\" -- i.e. teleport to any spot she has visited in the world or been able to visualize clearly. Afraid of attracting the attention of the criminal conspiracy that nearly devastated her parents' lives, Cent nevertheless wants a normal high school education after 16 years at home. But as she tries to establish her independence, she ultimately places her entire family in jeopardy.
Is It Any Good?
IMPULSE is a welcome new volume in the sequence of science fiction novels that began with Jumper. Author Steven Gould is adept at following all the consequences of the science fictional premise and proves that he still has plenty of tricks up his sleeve regarding the possibilities of teleportation.
The level of suspense is high, but the book also has quieter moments where Cent grapples with feeling like an outsider. The novel's language, violence, and sexual content may bother some sensitive readers, but those who can handle some bumps will be rewarded.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Impulse compares with previous books in the series that started with Jumper. Why is Jumper considered a classic?
Why do you think teleportation is such a popular theme in science fiction?
What are the best ways to deal with bullies? When and how should parents, school authorities, and the police be involved?
How does the book depict/handle issues related to sex?
Book Details
- Author: Steven Gould
- Genre: Science Fiction
- Topics: Sports and Martial Arts, Friendship, High School, Science and Nature
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Tor Books
- Publication date: January 8, 2013
- Number of pages: 368
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: July 14, 2015
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