I think this book doesn't get a lot of deserved attention because it was a bit ahead of the dystopian/post apocalyptic curve, but I found it to be quite good and I will happily recommend it to people searching for a Hunger Games read-a-like. The world that Spaz lives in is fresh and interesting and he is extremely easy to care about and you almost immediately are rooting for him. Ryter is an excellent mentor for Spaz as he really opens his eyes to what is truly going on in the world and makes Spaz accept that his story matters. The main plot of Spaz risking his life in order to visit his sister on her death bed shows his selflessness and compassion and really creates a drama and intensity throughout the rest of his adventures. An excellent stand alone title!