Author:
Daniel and Dina Nayeri
Publication Date:
July 8, 2011
Publisher:
Candlewick Press
Format:
Hardcover, 400 pages
Price:
CAD $19.99
Source:
Borrowed at the library!
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Description
A devilish debut by a brother-sister team invites us into the world of the elite Marlowe School, where some gifted students are having a hell of a year.
One night, in cities all across Europe, five children vanish – only to appear, years later, at an exclusive New York party with a strange and elegant governess. Rumor and mystery follow the Faust teenagers to the city’s most prestigious high school, where they soar to suspicious heights with the help of their benefactor’s extraordinary “gifts.” But as the students claw their way up – reading minds, erasing scenes, stopping time, stealing power, seducing with artificial beauty – they start to suffer the sideeffects of their own addictions. And as they make further deals with the devil, they uncover secrets more shocking than their most unforgivable sins. At once chilling and wickedly satirical, this contemporary reimagining of the Faustian bargain is a compelling tale of ambition, consequences, and ultimate redemption.
About The Author
Daniel Nayeri has held many book-related jobs, including editor, literary agent, and children’s librarian. He is also a professional pastry chef and award-winning stuntman.
His sister, Dina Nayeri Viergutz, is a former teaching fellow in economics who holds both an MBA and a master’s of education from Harvard University. Both were born in Iran and now live in New York City and Amsterdam, respectively.
Review
This is the story of Madame Vileory who lets face it, is the Goddess of Death. She takes unfortunate souls and make them dependent on her. Why she does this I have no idea why. That’s the thing about this book, there was no motive for these evil actions!
We have five teenagers who couldn’t be more different, yet what they wanted was the same. To be noticed and appreciated by their family, friends and the general public. Then Madame Vileroy comes into their lives and they sell their souls to her in exchange for something they need and wanted. If you haven’t heard of the German Faust story well this is what it’s based on. Being in lieu with Death itself has dire consequences and this was no exception.
I just wished there was a cause for the actions of such Vileory. Maybe they’ll be answered in the second book? Great writing and interesting concept but lacked a straightforward plot which I need to keep myself entertained.
Rating 3/5
Quotes
“I may not be gorgeous, but that’s not all there is in life.”—Bicé (275)
I had never heard of this. Not once until now. It sounds like a book that I would really like. It is one of those that I might just have to give a shot to!
I haven’t read this book yet, but I know the original Faust story. In school, we made a play called Another Faust during drama too! I bet the scriptwriter took inspiration from this book, LOL
I enjoyed Another Faust a lot, but while it wasn’t perfectly straightforward, I think I loved the twisted plot, like a circus’ house of mirrors. It’s took me a while to take the entire thing in and simply wow-ed me. Its sequel, Another Pan was okay, and I have to read Another Jekyll, Another Hyde soon. No matter what, my heart always breaks ever so slightly at its not-so-resolved ending.