More Than this

Patrick Ness's "More Than This" is a profound and challenging young adult novel that plunges readers into an existential mystery. Seth, a 16-year-old, drowns only to awaken in a seemingly abandoned replica of his childhood home. As he navigates this eerie landscape, he encounters other "awakened" teens and slowly uncovers the horrifying truth about their world, which ties into global decline and a simulated reality. The narrative is interwoven with flashbacks to Seth's traumatic past, including the death of his younger brother, his parents' profound grief, and his own secret homosexual relationship which led to his suicide attempt. This book is ideal for mature young adults (14+) who enjoy philosophical science fiction and deep emotional journeys. Parents should be aware of prominent themes of grief, suicide, and existential dread, which are handled with sensitivity but directness.