Book Review: (extra)ORDINARY by Starr Z. Davies
From the moment I picked up (extra)ORDINARY: A Young Adult Sci-Fi Dystopian Novel, the third installment in Starr Z. Davies’ Powers Series, I was hooked. As a fan of complex characters and rich narratives, the prospect of diving into the story through Bianca Pond’s eyes intrigued me. After being captivated by the first two books, Ordinary and Unique, I couldn’t wait to explore this alternate perspective.
In this companion volume, we meet Bianca—a sharp, fierce, seventeen-year-old transformed into a weapon by the Directorate. Her mind is a battleground, altered by powerful forces that dictate her actions and memories. The narrative plunges us into Bianca’s world, where the ghosts of her past resurface, forcing her to question not just her loyalties but her very identity. This exploration of memory, vengeance, and the quest for justice makes for an intensely emotional journey.
One aspect that truly resonates in this book is the theme of empowerment. Bianca is both a product of her trauma and a force to be reckoned with, navigating a world where trust is a luxury she can’t afford. The tension between her newfound abilities and the fight for personal autonomy is palpable, and Davies captures this struggle beautifully. Bianca’s evolution from a mere tool of the Directorate to a proactive agent seeking her own truth is profoundly relatable, making her journey compelling.
Davies’ writing style is captivating and impactful, characterized by vivid imagery and fast-paced action. The world-building in (extra)ORDINARY enriches the plot—it’s gritty and yet so vividly real that I could almost feel the weight of Bianca’s burdens. The pacing, though occasionally swift, manages to allow readers moments of reflection amidst the chaos. There’s a tension to the writing that mirrors Bianca’s own struggles. It’s raw, engaging, and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
What I particularly appreciated were the layers this narrative added to existing characters and events from the previous books. It’s not merely a retelling; it’s a reawakening of emotions and a deepening of connections. As one reviewer aptly noted, “Getting a story from someone else’s perspective means getting to know that person better.” I couldn’t agree more. Bianca’s voice fleshes out unanswered questions and adds nuance to the events surrounding her.
One memorable quote that struck me was when Bianca reflects, “My memories do not belong to me; they are a tapestry woven by others.” This line perfectly encapsulates her heartbreaking dilemma of lost identity—a struggle that feels universally relevant in our own quest for self amidst external influence.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend (extra)ORDINARY to fans of sci-fi and dystopian fiction. It’s an essential read for those who have journeyed through the Powers Series, providing not just closure but a fresh perspective that enriches the entire narrative. Even if you’re new to the series, Bianca’s story stands strong on its own—where action meets soul-searching, it invites you to question the narratives we accept and those we choose to rewrite. This book is a powerful reminder of what it means to reclaim one’s identity, and for me, it was not just a story; it was an experience that lingers long after the final page.