The House of the Scorpion

• Following Matt's journey in the course of this book was one that I'll remember for quite some time, because his circumstances were so entirely unique and the issues explored through his perspective so deep and complex that it really made you think.

• Science meets social issues in Nancy Farmer's books. There's a lot in here to lead a book group into a variety of discussions: slavery, border patrol and cloning just to start. This book has scenes that you will never see on tv or read about anywhere else.

• I had forgotten how intensely and wonderfully creative this book was. I had forgotten the beauty of the language used in it. The mysteries of Matt's relationship with El Patron. The nickname he is called, mi vida - my life - which has so much more meaning than even he realizes.

• The House of the Scorpion is really unlike any YA/middle grade book I've ever read. It's extremely philosophical and thought-provoking, covering topics of the soul, identity, and human rights in a very intriguing way.

• Tackling topics around scientific progress and ethics, the book lets readers walk beside Matt through his discoveries and reflections on the events and people he encounters. Matt's inner turmoil, impulses, feelings, and the worldview he gradually forms are portrayed with genuine intimacy.

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