School's Out—Forever (Maximum Ride #2)

Reader reviewed by Aileen

Maximum Ride: Schools Out Forever delves deeper into the chaos and confusion that is the lives of Max and her flock. While this crew is concerned with finding their families and finally discovering where they belong, another group is bent on their destruction. They attempt to cut out their own bit of paradise and sanctuary in the world, but it soon becomes apparent that they cannot run from their harrowing past. More is discovered about the part-avian part-human children, including new abilities, their pasts, and what may become of their future.


James Pattersons infamy for turning out quality literature does not seem to extend to Maximum Ride: Schools Out Forever. Despite the books promising beginning, the plot quickly becomes tangled and rushed. The entire book is a complicated and frustrating game of cat-and-mouse. The plot changes direction constantly, but the problem is, it never seems to go anywhere. The many subplots within the novel never seem to come together, leaving many unanswered questions. Pattersons habit of simply tying off the story, instead of finishing it, leaves the reader feeling cheated and unsatisfied. While it is obvious Patterson is leaving the book open for a sequel, he does so at the readers expense. The book has it all, from great characters to a compelling storyline, but it simply does not follow through. Do I recommend this book? Sure, it was an interesting read. But be prepared for disappointment.


The book should hit shelves May 2006.