Bloom

Kenneth Oppel
51 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Middle Grade
Published in 2020

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Book Brief

Kenneth Oppel

Bloom

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Science Fiction

•

Horror & Suspense

•

Action & Adventure
Setting

Vancouver Island • Near Future

Theme
Safety & Danger

•

Friendship

•

Plants
First Publication Year

2020

Publisher

Knopf Books for Young Readers

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

670L

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Super Short Summary

In Kenneth Oppel's Bloom, three teenagers—Anaya, Petra, and Seth—find themselves uniquely immune to an alien plant invasion that threatens Earth. As deadly plants spread, emitting toxic fumes and devastating the environment, the teens' bodies begin to change. With help from biochemist Dr. Weber, they uncover their part-alien heritage and set out on a perilous mission to save Anaya’s father and stop the invasion. The novel depicts violence between humans and extraterrestrial plants, feelings of alienation, teenagers in foster care, physical alterations, environmental tragedies, abuse, self-harm, colonialism, and allusions to alien abductions resulting in pregnancy.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Challenging

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.0

795 ratings

73%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Oppel's Bloom captivates with its thrilling premise and well-drawn teen protagonists. The fast-paced plot and vivid descriptions of invasive plants keep readers engaged. However, some critics feel character development is lacking and the narrative sometimes predictable. Overall, it's a gripping read for fans of sci-fi thrillers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Bloom?

Readers who would enjoy Kenneth Oppel's Bloom are likely teens and young adults who appreciate thrilling, science fiction adventures. Fans of Rick Yancey's The 5th Wave or Michael Grant's Gone series will find the fast-paced, apocalyptic narrative and strong, relatable teenage protagonists particularly engaging.

4.0

795 ratings

73%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

One of the book’s three protagonists, characterized by her severe allergies and asthma, which shape her experiences and self-perception. Her transformation involves developing unique abilities and a journey of self-acceptance.

The second protagonist, known for her beauty and popularity, who faces internal fears despite her confident exterior. She deals with a unique skin condition and undergoes a journey towards embracing her true self.

The third protagonist, a quiet and kind teen with scars on his arms, who has experienced abandonment in the foster care system. He finds friendship and courage as he uncovers his unique capabilities.

Anaya’s father and a botanist specializing in combating invasive species, playing a crucial role in understanding the plant invasion. He provides support and guidance to Anaya throughout the story.

A physician and biochemist working for Canada’s Security Intelligence Service, providing critical scientific insight into the story’s events. She serves as a mentor figure, especially to Seth, and aids in the protagonists' understanding of their identities.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Science Fiction

•

Horror & Suspense

•

Action & Adventure
Setting

Vancouver Island • Near Future

Theme
Safety & Danger

•

Friendship

•

Plants
First Publication Year

2020

Publisher

Knopf Books for Young Readers

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

670L

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