J.D.s Picks: Safekeeping by Karen Hesse

This novel is probably the most realistic "the nation is turning into a communist dictatorship!" futuristic novel written recently; it's certainly the most realistic one I've ever read. It focuses on the A.P.P. (the American People's Party) who is about to gain control of both houses of congress and the white house. Radley has been volunteering at an orphanage in Haiti when they come into power, and she realizes that she's in trouble when she arrives home: no cell phone service, no credit cards, no papers (papers!) to travel beyond her home state. And, she can't find her parents. Anywhere. This novel is about her journey to the Canadian border and who she meets along the way. The author did a great job of describing the APP, who were arresting and forcing everyone to work in areas benefiting the state in "their redistribution of talent." The author uses about 50 of her own photographs to illustrate, which adds an interesting layer to the story. This is one of the best books I've read this year. Reserve It!