Saga

'An exciting Matrix-style thriller that's not for the squeamish. A compelling fantasy take based on the idea that the world is a game called Saga, controlled by dark and sinister figures' -- Bookfest 'This novel, as well as having a brilliantly crafted structure and engaging characters, begs the reader to question what it really means to be alive' -- Shane Hunt (age 15) 'It is a rock'n'roll, helter-skelter time, a journey not for the faint-hearted but bound to enthrall wired-up skateboarders, the mathematically literate and those who just enjoy a well-written narrative' -- Village Magazine Village Magazine 'Futuristic fantasy can provide a powerful critique of dehumanization and help explore ideas about identity ... sophisticated' -- Sunday Independent The Sunday Independent Kostick's achievement lies in the duality of the book, which can be read both as an excellently fast-paced action thriller and a commentary on very real modern issues. The engaging characters and the compelling plot allow for a great read, but at the core of the book lie deep questions concerning such grand issues as self-realisation, citizenship and societal inequality, conformism and the abuse of power. Kostick has made these accessible while never compromising the seriousness of the issues. It is a constant battle for authors of young peoples literature to balance this depth of writing with a gripping story, but Kostick has once again succeeded in creating a superb novel that can be enjoyed by older teenagers and adults alike. -- Inis Magazine Inis Magazine 'This adventurous, intriguing, and entirely unsettling novel delivers an impeccable balance of philosophical debate about the limits of realness while still delivering enough chase scenes, battles, and twisty plot shifts to keep even the most action-drive -- Bulletin of the Centre for Children's Books 'These are highly-praised sci-fi novels for the 10+ age group ... would have appeal for readers who love their games too!' -- Woman's Way 'Through a vibrant, immediate, technologically-driven cultural connectivity, Kostick updates and makes urgent questions of individual, cultural and existential identity.' -- Inis Magazine