- Author: Robison Wells
- Genre: Young Adult, Thriller, Dystopian
- Number of Pages: 373
- Year of Publication: 2011
- Publisher: HarperTeen
Variant by Robison Wells Short Summary
“Variant” by Robison Wells is a gripping young adult novel that follows Benson Fisher, a 17-year-old who transfers to Maxfield Academy, expecting a promising future. Instead, he finds himself trapped in a high-security boarding school with no teachers and a stringent set of rules enforced by the students. The academy is divided into three factions: Society, Havoc, and Variant, each with its way of coping with the oppressive environment.
As Benson learns more about the academy’s dark secrets, he discovers that the students are constantly monitored and breaking the rules has severe consequences. His desire to escape intensifies as he forms alliances and faces betrayals, leading to a shocking revelation about the true nature of the academy. “Variant” keeps readers on the edge of their seats with its fast-paced plot and unexpected twists, making it a standout in the dystopian genre. To read summaries of more books, stay with us at Better Summary.
Who is the Author of Variant?
Robison Wells is the author of “Variant.” He is an American writer known for his contributions to young adult fiction, particularly in the thriller and dystopian genres. Born in Utah, Wells developed a passion for storytelling early in life. He attended Brigham Young University, where he earned a degree in political science. Wells’ writing often explores themes of survival, identity, and the challenges of adolescence.
Wells has written several notable books in addition to “Variant.” His other works include:
- “Feedback” – A sequel to “Variant,” continuing the story of Benson Fisher as he uncovers more about the sinister academy.
- “Blackout” – A novel about a world where teens develop superpowers amidst a global terrorist threat.
- “Dead Zone” – The follow-up to “Blackout,” where the story of the superpowered teens continues as they try to save the world.
- “The Warning” – A standalone thriller about a small town facing mysterious and dangerous occurrences after a catastrophic event.
Robison Wells’ books are known for their fast-paced plots, intriguing characters, and unexpected twists, making them popular among young adult readers. Despite facing personal challenges, including struggles with mental illness, Wells continues to write and inspire readers with his engaging and imaginative stories. For more information about this Author, visit Robison Wells.
Who Should Read This Book?
“Variant” by Robison Wells is a thrilling and engaging read that appeals to a broad audience. Here are some groups of people who would especially enjoy this book:
- Young Adult Readers: “Variant” is perfect for teenagers and adults who enjoy stories about characters their age facing extraordinary challenges. The themes of identity, survival, and rebellion resonate well with this age group.
- Fans of Dystopian Fiction: If you love dystopian novels like “The Hunger Games” or “Divergent,” “Variant“ will be a great addition to your reading list. The book’s setting in a high-security academy with strict rules and factions provides a compelling dystopian backdrop.
- Thriller Enthusiasts: Readers who enjoy fast-paced, suspenseful plots with lots of twists and turns will find “Variant“ hard to put down. The mystery and intrigue of Maxfield Academy will keep you guessing until the end.
- Adventure Seekers: If you crave stories filled with action and adventure, Benson Fisher’s journey to uncover the academy’s secrets and find a way to escape will captivate you.
- Readers Who Enjoy Character-Driven Stories: “Variant“ offers well-developed characters who face complex moral decisions. Benson’s growth and interactions with other students add depth to the story, making it more than an action-packed read.
- People Looking for a Quick Read: With its engaging narrative and straightforward writing style, “Variant“ is an accessible and quick read for those who want an exciting story without a heavy time commitment.
- Fans of Series: As the first book in a series, “Variant“ is ideal for readers who enjoy following characters across multiple books and seeing how their stories unfold.
In summary, “Variant“ is a versatile book that offers something for everyone, from young adult readers to fans of dystopian and thriller genres. Its engaging plot, relatable characters, and thrilling twists make it a must-read for an exciting and thought-provoking story. Stay with us to see the summaries of more books in the Exciting genre.
Important Lessons You Can Get
“Variant“ by Robison Wells is not just an exciting dystopian novel; it also offers several important lessons that readers can take away. Here are some key points and messages conveyed through the story:
The Value of Independence
Benson Fisher’s journey at Maxfield Academy highlights the importance of independence. He refuses to conform to the academy’s strict rules and control, showing that thinking for yourself and making your own decisions is crucial. This lesson teaches readers to value their independence and not unthinkingly follow authority.
The Power of Resilience
Throughout the book, Benson faces numerous challenges and dangerous situations. His resilience and determination to uncover the truth and escape the academy demonstrate the power of perseverance. Readers learn that no matter how tough the circumstances, it’s essential to stay strong and keep pushing forward.
The Importance of Trust and Friendship
In the harsh environment of Maxfield Academy, Benson learns the significance of trust and forming alliances. Despite the danger of betrayal, he builds friendships that help him navigate the academy’s treacherous landscape. This aspect of the story underscores the importance of trust and camaraderie in overcoming obstacles.
Questioning Authority and the Status Quo
“Variant“ encourages readers to question authority and the status quo. Benson’s refusal to accept the academy’s rules without questioning them reminds us that it’s essential to evaluate the systems and rules we live under critically. Blind obedience can lead to exploitation and loss of freedom.
The Complexity of Human Nature
The book also explores the complexity of human nature through its diverse cast of characters. Benson encounters various students, each with their motivations and coping mechanisms. This teaches readers that people are multifaceted and that understanding others requires looking beyond surface behaviors.
In conclusion, Robison Wells’s “Variant” provides readers with valuable lessons about independence, resilience, trust, critical thinking, and the complexity of human nature. These themes enrich the thrilling narrative, making the book exciting and thought-provoking.
Quotes from the Book
“Variant“ by Robison Wells is filled with thought-provoking and memorable quotes. Here are some notable ones:
- “Sometimes surviving is all you can do.”
- This quote highlights the book’s theme of resilience and the importance of pushing through difficult situations.
- “People aren’t supposed to be prisoners. They’re supposed to be free.”
- Benson’s realization about the oppressive environment of the academy underscores the value of freedom and independence.
- “Trust is hard to come by, especially when you’re surrounded by enemies.”
- This quote reflects Benson’s challenges in forming alliances and underscores the difficulty of trusting others in a hostile environment.
- “You have to decide what you want to be. You can’t let other people make that decision for you.”
- A powerful reminder about the importance of self-determination and making your own choices in life.
These quotes capture the essence of the book’s key themes and provide insight into the characters’ struggles and growth.
Comparison with Similar and Related Works
“Variant“ by Robison Wells shares similarities with several well-known dystopian and thriller novels, making it an exciting read for fans of these genres.
“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins
Both “Variant“ and “The Hunger Games“ feature young protagonists thrust into controlled, oppressive environments where survival is paramount. While Katniss Everdeen battles in a deadly arena, Benson Fisher navigates the prison-like Maxfield Academy. Both stories explore themes of rebellion, trust, and the fight for freedom against authoritarian control.
“Divergent” by Veronica Roth
In “Divergent,“ Tris Prior faces a society divided into factions based on human virtues. Similarly, “Variant“ features factions within Maxfield Academy, each with its way of coping with the oppressive regime. Both books delve into the struggle for identity and defying societal norms.
“The Maze Runner” by James Dashner
“The Maze Runner“ and “Variant“ involve teenagers trapped in a mysterious and dangerous environment with no apparent way out. Thomas, like Benson, must navigate this world while uncovering its secrets and forming alliances. The themes of survival, trust, and finding hidden truths are central to both novels.
“Lord of the Flies” by William Golding
Though not a dystopian novel, “Lord of the Flies“ parallels “Variant“ in depicting young people creating their society in the absence of adults. Both books explore the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of power and control.
In summary, “Variant“ offers a compelling mix of elements in these famous works, making it a must-read for dystopian and survival fiction fans.
FAQ
- What is the main plot of “Variant“ by Robison Wells?
- “Variant“ follows Benson Fisher, a teenager who gets a scholarship to Maxfield Academy, only to find it is more of a prison than a school. The academy has no adults and is run by students who enforce strict rules—Benson’s attempts to escape reveal dark secrets about the institution.
- Is “Variant“ part of a series?
- Yes, “Variant“ is the first book in a series. The sequel, “Feedback,“ continues Benson Fisher’s story as he delves deeper into the mysteries of Maxfield Academy.
- Who is the target audience for “Variant”?
- “Variant“ primarily targets young adult readers who enjoy thrillers and dystopian genres. However, its fast-paced plot and intriguing themes also make it appealing to a broader audience.
- What are the main themes of “Variant”?
- The main themes of “Variant“ include survival, independence, trust, questioning authority, and the complexity of human nature. These themes are explored through the experiences and growth of the protagonist, Benson Fisher.
- How does “Variant“ compare to other dystopian novels?
- “Variant“ shares similarities with popular dystopian novels like “The Hunger Games,” “Divergent,“ and “The Maze Runner.“ It features a young protagonist in a controlled, oppressive environment who deals with themes of rebellion, trust, and survival.