“Is this how humanity waves good-bye?
Hell no.”
― Rick Yancey, The 5th Wave
Rick Yancey’s, The 5th Wave, is a young adult science fiction read and the first of a three part series. The novel first hit shelves in May of 2013, but was picked up not too long after, with its movie adaptation coming out in January of 2016.
In the novel, we follow sixteen year old Cassiopeia Sullivan, or better known as “Cassie” (Portrayed by Chloë Grace Moretz in the film) and her journey to reunite with her little brother Sam. The world Cassie once knew has unraveled and deteriorated around her through a series of what are referred to as “waves.” These “waves” are a strategic form of attacks sent by an extraterrestrial force in the hopes to dominate Earth. These strikes consist of earthquakes, tsunamis, disease, and more. With the human race standing on the cusp of extinction, Cassie’s journey and desperation lead her to accepting any form of help that comes her way.
Fate leads our young heroine right into the arms of Evan Walker (Portrayed by Alex Roe in the film), and whether she likes it or not, his help may be her last hope in finding her brother. With the dawn of the fifth wave fastly approaching, Cassie finds herself faced with two conflicting options. Either trust the young man she’s just barely met, or continue on alone, lessening her chances of ever reaching Sam in time. The fate of Cassie’s future lies in nobody’s hands but her own.
Rick Yancey is not only the author of The 5th Wave series, but he is also the author of two other critically acclaimed series. Scoring a total of 4.06 stars out of a possible 5 on Goodreads, The 5th Wave is not likely to disappoint. I cannot say that this book did not have me visiting my local library in search of both the second and third soon after finishing it. My final piece of advice? Read any novel threatening the idea of the eradication of the human race at your own risk during these trying times.
