Title: All Better Now
Author: Neal Shusterman
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication date: February 4, 2025
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Summary
A new virus is spreading its way across the world. But this virus acts differently than any virus humanity has seen before. Those that survive experience utter contentment. People find that after getting infected, all of their negative emotions are completely gone. The virus quickly gains a following, but not everyone is happy with its affects.
The rich and powerful are desperate to find a cure for this virus. After all, if everyone is content, that’s bad for business. In this new, virus addled world, three teens find themselves at the center of it all. But not in the ways you’d expect.
Review: All Better Now
Thanks to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for an advanced copy of All Better Now by Neal Shusterman to review! Don’t let the fact that this book is about a pandemic turn you away. Shusterman uses his talent for writing dystopia to weave an engaging story that explores the aftermath of COVID in an interesting way.
There is quite a bit of set up in this book, both to let the reader get to the know the characters and the current state of the world. The plot really picks up about halfway through the book as the virus takes hold and our three main characters get thrown into the middle of everything. In true Neal Shusterman fashion, we not only get to see what’s happening their lives, but also around the world. And just when you think there’s no way he can make it all connect, he will throw in twists that make everything more interesting.
Though the main story is about a virus, Shusterman will also have you contemplating the big questions like: is unending happiness a gift? Does humanity need its darker side to maintain balance? Should we cure people who haven’t asked for it? How do you balance a virus that gifts people ultimate contentment without turning the other way?
While the main story is concluded in this book, there is potential for another book at the end. But you won’t be left on a cliffhanger! If you enjoy complex, layered stories with a strong cast of characters, definitely pick this book up in February!
4/5 stars
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