About This Book
Charlie Higson's 'The Hunted' is the first book in 'An Enemy Novel' series, set in a post-apocalyptic world where a mysterious illness has transformed everyone over the age of sixteen into violent, zombie-like 'sickos.' The story follows two main protagonists, Ella, who is stranded in the countryside with a silent, disfigured rescuer named Scarface, and Ed, who is navigating a dangerous, sicko-infested London to find Ella and fulfill a promise to their younger brother. This 464-page chapter book is a high-octane survival thriller, exploring themes of bravery, loyalty, and the desperate fight for family amidst relentless danger. Parents should be aware of the prominent scary scenes, peril, and violence, as the 'sickos' are a constant, terrifying threat. It's best suited for mature middle-grade readers who enjoy intense action and dystopian themes.
Ella is out in the country, alone now except for her silent rescuer, Scarface, about whom she knows nothing, while Ed leaves London on a dangerous quest, determined to find Ella and keep his promise to Small Sam that he will reunite sister and brother.
Scary Scenes
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Violence
Character Death
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Discussion Prompts
1
What choices do Ella and Ed make that show their bravery? Have you ever had to be brave?
2
How important is loyalty in a world like the one in 'The Hunted'? How do Ed's actions show his loyalty?
3
If you were in Ella's or Ed's shoes, what would be the hardest part about surviving in their world?
4
The 'sickos' are adults who have changed. How does this make the story more frightening than if they were just monsters?
5
What do you think motivates Scarface to help Ella, even though he doesn't speak?
External Reviews
More in The Enemy
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