Name: Nimbo
ISBN: 9788416858972

Neal Shusterman

Pilar Ramírez Tello

Antes, las personas morían por causas naturales. Existían asesinos invisibles llamados enfermedades, el envejecimiento era irreversible y se producían accidentes de los que no se podía regresar. Ahora, todo eso ha quedado atrás y sólo perdura una verdad muy simple: la gente tiene que morir. Y esa es la tarea de los segadores. Porque en un futuro donde la humanidad controla la muerte, ¿quién decide cuándo y cómo sembrarla? Citra y Rowan acaban de ser seleccionados como aprendices de segadores. ¿Su objetivo? Superar las pruebas de su mentor, sean las que sean. Aunque en el proceso renuncien a todo lo que les hace humanos.

Arc of a Scythe #2

Nimbo

Emma Ouellet

I know them intimately, and yet they can never truly know me. There is tragedy in that. It is the plight of every child to have depth their parents can scarcely imagine. But, oh, how I long to be understood.

How frustrating it is to have so much power, yet be so impotent to wield it when it counts.

If my body is the Earth, then I am nothing more than a spec of dust in the vastness of space. I wonder what it would be like, then, if my consciousness were to someday span the distance between stars.

Crime, in its true form, ended almost immediately once I put an end to hunger and poverty. Theft for the sake of material possessions, murder precipitated by anger and social stress—it all ceased of its own accord. Those prone to violent crime were easily treated on the genetic level to quiet their destructive tendencies, bringing them down to normal parameters. To sociopaths, I gave conscience; to psychopaths, I gave sanity.

Even so, there was unrest. I began to recognize something in humanity that was ephemeral and hard to quantify, but definitely there. Simply put, humanity had a need to be bad.

“All stories can be traced to a time and place—even the simplest, most innocent of children’s tales have unexpected beginnings.”

It brought to mind another nursery rhyme Rowan remembered. 

. Years later, he had learned that it was all about some mortal-age disease called the black plague. The rhyme was just silliness without context, but once you knew what it was about—what each line meant—it made eerie sense. Children chanting about death in a macabre singsong.

There is a fine line between freedom and permission. The former is necessary.  The latter is dangerous—perhaps the most dangerous thing the species that created me has ever faced.

I have pondered the records of the mortal age and long ago determined the two sides of this coin. While freedom gives rise to growth and enlightenment, permission allows evil to flourish in a light of day that would otherwise destroy it.

... Society gorges itself, and rots. Permission is the bloated corpse of freedom.

But the memories of who they were—all the damage, all the pain—remain within me, sheltered deep in my backbrain. I am the one who mourns for them, because they cannot.

Were I to begin doling out death, I would be the very monster that mortal man feared artificial intelligence would become. To choose those who live and those who die would leave me both feared and adored, like emperor-gods of old. No, I decided. Let humankind be the saviors and the silencers. Let them be the heroes. Let them be the monsters.

Even so, out of sight is not out of mind. I see their fine deeds, as well as their foul deeds, which seem to be on the rise.  And each time I witness a cruel act by a corrupt scythe, I seed the clouds somewhere in the world, and bring a lamentation of rain. Because rain is the closest thing I have to tears.

How ironic, then, and how poetic, that humankind may have created the Creator out of want for one. Man creates God, who then creates man. Is that not the perfect circle of life? But then, if that turns out to be the case, who is created in whose image?

But how can I protect humanity from itself?

I have come to realize that there are only two perfect acts. They are the two most important acts known to me, but I forbid myself to perform them, and leave them in the hands of humankind.

They are the creation of life . . . and life’s taking.

And the pain . . . the pain of my awareness is unbearable. Because my eyes do not close. Ever. And so all I can do is watch unblinkingly as my beloved humankind slowly weaves the rope it will use to hang itself.

The world is unfair and nature is cruel. 

This was a primary observation when I first became aware. In a natural world, anything weak is eradicated with pain and prejudice.  All that which deserves sympathy, pity, and love receives none.

"Rowan, I think I'm in love. No—I know I'm in love. I mean, sparring with her, it's like sex. Hell, it's better than sex!'"

Jennifer

Die erste von Scythe Anastasias Nachlesen war eine Frau, die sich entschieden hatte, vom höchsten Gebäude in Fargo zu platschen, eine Stadt, die nicht gerade für ihre hohen Gebäude bekannt war.

Abigail F

I have pondered whether or not such a being exists, and, like humanity itself, I have found no definitive proof beyond an abiding feeling that there is something more—something greater. 

If I exist without form-a soul sparking between a billion different servers could not the universe itself be alive with a spirit sparking between stars? I must sheepishly admit that I have dedicated far too many algorithms and computational resources toward finding an answer to this unknowable thing. 

Scvthe Anastasia watched the play from the wings. Usually entertainment from the Age of Mortality was emotionally incomprehensible to her, as it was to most people. The passions, the fears, the triumphs, and the losses; it made no sense to a world without need, greed, and natural death.

Rowan and Citra take opposite stances on the morality of the Scythedom, putting them at odds, in the chilling sequel to the Printz Honor Book "Scythe" from New York Times bestseller Neal Shusterman, author of the Unwind dystology.

The Thunderhead cannot interfere in the affairs of the Scythedom. All it can do is observe—it does not like what it sees.

A year has passed since Rowan had gone off grid. Since then, he has become an urban legend, a vigilante snuffing out corrupt scythes in a trial by fire. His story is told in whispers across the continent.

As Scythe Anastasia, Citra gleans with compassion and openly challenges the ideals of the “new order.” But when her life is threatened and her methods questioned, it becomes clear that not everyone is open to the change.

Will the Thunderhead intervene?

Or will it simply watch as this perfect world begins to unravel? 

Thunderhead

OHHH MY GOD SO FUCKING GOOD YESSSSSSS SLAY KING

a ♡

Autumn allison

I’m needing to see how this plays into the series as a whole to have final thoughts. But the writing itself was as great as ever. Felt a bit long but that could definitely be me more so than the book. 

ENDING WAS SO GOOD!!!!! I CANT WAIT TO FINISH THE SERIES!!!! BETTER THAN THE LAST BOOK!!!!

tori 👻

OH MY GOD THAT CLIFFHANGER
WHAT IS LIFE EVEN

Jordan

kelsey

“if they had to die today in order to live, it would somehow be wrong if they didn’t do it together.”

WHY ROWAN AND CITRA THEY BETTER NOT BE DOWN THERE FOR LONG

amelia <3

Hanna Rybchynska

“Death must exist for life to have meaning.”

I love the world that the author created because it is twisted and philosophical. There are so many criticisms about humanity and our behaviour. How is easy to corrupt the system and people. The most fascinating thing is how people decide to become gods and decide for others: ether they live or die. 

I really recommend this book for people who enjoy distipia and young adult.

Irina Nicula

This was such a fun read, finally got some answers to the questions I had after reading the first book. Now onto the last one!

abby .˚｡⋆ ༊ .˚｡⋆

<spoiler>GODDARD WILL PAY FOR HIS CRIMES</spoiler>

Christine

okay wait ngl this has gotta be the best of the trilogy if only for the development.

Annalissa Powner 

WHAT. JUST. HAPPENED?!?!
(Takes deep breath) Ok I’m cool, I’m calm. 
This book was incredible! So many twist and turns making the ending beyond mind blowing. I’m not even sure what took my breath away, but the last 100 pages was just... there aren’t any words.
How am I supposed to wait a year for the next book?

gabby

everything that happens in this series comes out of the left field. i feel betrayed

chloe rae

2020 reread:

SUCH a fun read! I didn’t remember anything going into this re-read so that ending was just as shocking and incredible the second time around! So stoked to finally continue on with this series and read the last book for the first time!



2018 original review:
*maybe a possible 4.5 stars but the ending was SO GREAT that it basically made me forget all the little problems I had.

I mean, WHOA. I am SHOOK, as per usual when it comes to Neal Shusterman's writing. The first book was full of so many amazing twists and schemes and I gotta say, this sequel did NOT disappoint! It was just as incredible as the first. As I said, I had a few tiny hiccups and they are as follows:
1.) The Thunderhead's journal entries were super interesting and great, but also felt a little monotonous and repetitive at times.
2.) The middle chunk of the book was long and, at times, felt unnecessary (at least for me)
But when it came to the ending, it didn't matter that it took so long to get there. The wait had been WORTH IT. This story is full of so many incredibly rich and fascinating characters. This entire WORLD is fascinating and I love how the author just keeps putting little facts and tidbits of information throughout the story. We're constantly learning; seeing how this 'utopia' functions and how it isn't quite as perfect as it seems.
I just love this story, man. It's so good. It's fresh and interesting and I'm so INVESTED and now I need the third book but who know's when that'll come out. All I know is, it'll be one hell of a ride and I can't wait!

Catarina Lopes 

nina 

“To deny humanity the lesson of consequences would be a mistake.
And I do not make mistakes.”  

What a book to start of my 2019! I hope this sets the tone for the rest of my reading year.

And now, since I'm still blown away and can't believe the events that have just unfolded, here are my thoughts and reactions to the ending of Thunderhead, as told in gifs: (MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD, duh) 

(view spoiler)[
Goddard turning up to the conclave when everyone thought he was dead:



The Thunderhead watching the little humans destroy themselves despite trying to fix everything:



Rowan everytime he opens his mouth to speak to Goddard:


When the Grandslayers were eaten alive by sharks:



 Goddard pulling the "high five, down low, too slow" on Supreme Blade Kahlo when he feigns saving her:


Rowan and Citra sinking to the bottom of the sea together: #BestiesThatAreLockedInAMetalBoxTogetherStayTogether



When you realise who knows how long they could be down there:


The technicians and everyone else on the island when Endura was sinking:



Sythe Curie, that's all I have to say:



Marie, oh precious Marie.

How Rowan pictures himself:



How I picture him:



I will protect you, my smol child

Me to Citra, because I feel like a proud parent watching her shake up the Conclave:



Me outside Neal Shusterman's house because I still have to wait for the finale:
 (hide spoiler)]

Ally

this would have been much better had I remembered scythe or reread what happened. but, because I did not I was lost at times (all completely my fault). I wished we saw more of the original two and seen more growth from them because the majority, imo felt like nothing was reallllyy going on. but the end tho

After Scythe, Thunderhead was AGAIN flawlessly executed, kept me on the edge of my seat every time it was insane. 

The concept of the story is very interesting, which I also mentioned in my review of Scythe (go read that one ;) and Thunderhead just deepened the knowledge of the dystopian world even more. We actually get to read the thoughts of Thunderhead now, instead of the scythe propaganda (ahem Goddard), which was very nice at the beginning but became really problematic at the end (Thunderhead u good buddy?). 

I totally DID NOT see that ending coming, it was absolutely wild but somehow still made sense?

Also, Goddard was reincarnated but like kept his head? Absolutely disgusting I hate that guy.

The only thing wrong with this book is that we FINALLY got some Rowan/Citra content but then IT FADED TO BLACK??? WHY??? WHAT HAPPENED NEAL TELL ME??? Still 5 stars because the book was too good, I can't wait for the next one.

If you liked this book, I recommend: contemplating the growing influence AI has on our lives (or don't, I don't really care).

Laura

After Scythe, Thunderhead was AGAIN flawlessly executed, kept me on the edge of my seat every time it was insane. 

The concept of the story is very interesting, which I also mentioned in my review of Scythe (go read that one ;) and Thunderhead just deepened the knowledge of the dystopian world even more. We actually get to read the thoughts of Thunderhead now, instead of the scythe propaganda (ahem Goddard), which was very nice at the beginning but became really problematic at the end (Thunderhead u good buddy?). 

I totally DID NOT see that ending coming, it was absolutely wild but somehow still made sense?

Also, Goddard was reincarnated but like kept his head? Absolutely disgusting I hate that guy.

The only thing wrong with this book is that we FINALLY got some Rowan/Citra content but then IT FADED TO BLACK??? WHY??? WHAT HAPPENED NEAL TELL ME??? Still 5 stars because the book was too good, I can't wait for the next one.

If you liked this book, I recommend: contemplating the growing influence AI has on our lives (or don't, I don't really care).

Danny Werhane

tinha potencial mas foi lentíssimo. o final foi good though

taci

“Intelligent and entertaining.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Even better than the first book.” —School Library Journal (starred review) Rowan and Citra take opposite stances on the morality of the Scythedom, putting them at odds, in the chilling sequel to the Printz Honor Book Scythe from New York Times bestseller Neal Shusterman, author of the Unwind dystology. Humans learn from their mistakes. I cannot. I make no mistakes. The Thunderhead is the perfect ruler of a perfect world, but it has no control over the scythedom. A year has passed since Rowan had gone off grid. Since then, he has become an urban legend, a vigilante snuffing out corrupt scythes in a trial by fire. His story is told in whispers across the continent. As Scythe Anastasia, Citra gleans with compassion and openly challenges the ideals of the “new order.” But when her life is threatened and her methods questioned, it becomes clear that not everyone is open to the change. Old foes and new enemies converge, and as corruption within the Scythedom spreads, Rowan and Citra begin to lose hope. Will the Thunderhead intervene? Or will it simply watch as this perfect world begins to unravel?

I thought that this book was good when I read it 

Lexy 

alexandra

KHASJHDKFJADIPOLDS; i'm not okay. i didn't realize there would be another book (much like my reaction to the first novel lmao) but THERE'S MORE TO COME AND I'M EXPLODING. 

full review to come. maybe??

Lacy W

Find this review and others like it at aravenclawlibraryx.wordpress.com

I am honestly not sure how to start this review. I am already on my second attempt writing it out but I’m sure editing Lacy will edit it even further in the typing portion. I truly love this world. I think it’s so beyond creative and the characters are ingenious, but this book wasn’t as good as Scythe. 

I think I am struggling because while I still love this book (and the trilogy thus far), I was so incredibly bored for a good portion of the book. There was an addition of a new character, Greyson. While he was an alright character and he will be important later, I’m sure, I just didn't care enough about his story. Which was unfortunate for me, because he got quite a bit of page time. 

I still adore Citra and Rowan, of course. I love the way Citra has chosen to do her gleanings. She has come such a long way and I couldn’t be more proud of her. She really has embraced being Anastasia Romanov, even though she doesn’t claim the last name. Rowan’s character development was one of my favorites. He, too, is embracing the true meaning of being a Scythe and upholding that honor. Plus, I also dig the name the other Scythes have given him. 

The foreshadowing in this book is so well done. Probably one of the best I’ve seen in a long time. In between chapters, the Thunderhead spoke. I actually found myself enjoying what they had to say. I won't give a lot away but when you all read this book, pay very close attention to what the Thunderhead says.

Overall, while I didn’t love this quite as much as Scythe, it’s still a really good addition to the trilogy. I can't wait to read the last book and see just how everything potentially gets solved, which I hope there is a happy ending or I am going to be very sad.

Nimbo Arc of a Scythe #2

Reviews

Highlights