Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Suspenseful tale of superpowered teens has a spark of wit.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 21 kid reviews
Kids say this book is an exhilarating read that has captivated many young readers, turning them into avid book lovers. With a compelling main character, themes of friendship, courage, and positive messages about overcoming personal struggles, it is praised for its engaging storytelling, despite some criticisms about the writing style and predictability of the plot.
- engaging story
- positive messages
- love for reading
- captivating characters
- some criticism
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Tired of being pushed around by bullies, Michael Vey unleashes his secret electrical powers, zapping them into unconsciousness. That loss of control is the first step toward Michael being recruited for the sinister Elgen Academy, where superpowered teens are being groomed to rule the world. When agents from Elgen kidnap his mother and one of his schoolmates, Michael sets off on a cross-country quest to rescue them.
Is It Any Good?
Another tale of misfit teens with secret mutant powers might seem overly familiar to some readers, but this series opener has enough wit and charm to smooth over most objections. In THE PRISONER OF CELL 25, author Richard Paul Evans maintains a relatively light touch on the material, keeping the suspense high without descending into overwhelming angst. Michael's friendships with studious Ostin Liss and cheerleader Taylor Ridley keep the story grounded, even if the story's villains are a little too self-consciously dastardly. The book ends with a cliffhanger, and most readers will be eager to pick up the next installment, Rise of the Elgen.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about superhero stories. Why are they so popular in books, movies, cartoons, and on TV shows? What aspects of the genre appeal most to readers and filmgoers?
How does Michael struggle with knowing when to use his electrical powers? How does Michael defend himself against the aggression of others with electric powers?
Is violence a useful strategy in resolving disputes?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Superheroes , Adventures , Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Simon Pulse
- Publication date : August 9, 2011
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 15
- Number of pages : 326
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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