What would happen if everyone in the world looked the same? Would it put an end to racial strife but lead to other unforeseen problems? Steven L. Layne addresses these issues in his latest book for young adults, Mergers.
Plot
The world of the book Merger consists of people who all look alike. These people have sleek black hair much like hispanics, mulatto skin and blue eyes. An alliance had decided years before that to end racial strife everyone should look the same or be merged.
Fifteen years ago four babies were born into this world. However these four babies are different from everyone else. Nicci is an African Time Traveler, Mateo is a Hispanic Metamorph, Keiko is an Asian Empath, and Dirk is a Caucasian telepath. The outward differences forced Dirk's aunt, Lisa, to take them into hiding shortly after their birth.
Now fifteen years later, the alliance has located the spot they have been hiding and has taken them to a laboratory. The kids are scared but with the help of three other "different" people they escape.
The three others are adults and must teach the kids how to use their powers better to defeat the alliance before the alliance destroys them.
Award Winning Book
Steven L. Layne's books are award winners and this book is no exception. It received the Hal Clement Award for the best new Science Fiction novel for young people and was named a Young Adult Choice Title by the International Reading Association. In addition it has been an award winner in many state contests such as those from Indiana and Missouri.
A Thinking Reader's Book
This book takes on the idea that if everyone looked the same the world would be a better place. It makes the reader think about the problems a world like this would have. It also leads to the thoughts that everyone is special no matter what they look like. The book gives racial hatred a face in that of the antagonist, an adult who wants to be rid of the four main characters so his perfect world can still exist.
Layne's four main characters are real teens. They could be the kids down the street. They experience real teen aged emotions and problems. The four are friends but a new dimension to their relationships is added when Dirk and Keiko admit to the special feelings they have for each other. The addtion of the character's special powers simply makes them more likeable. The reader quickly becomes friends with the characters and wants to see them succeed.
Uses for the Book
This book is a perfect choice to be read by both girls and boys. The four main characters are racially diverse and share equally in the adventure of the story. It is a great choice for a silent or free reading book for students.
For those teachers that wish to use the book with either an entire class or a small group a study guide has been developed. The study guide provides the teacher with opportunities for class discussions not only on the book and its themes, but on the societal implications of the book.
Mergers by Steven L. Layne
Pelican Publishing Company, 2006
ISBN: 978-1-58980-538-5
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