We See Everything

William Sutcliffe's new novel is a compelling and disturbing tale set in a stark, futuristic London. Lex lives on The London Strip, a battle-scarred area of land that is home to those left after a series of bombardments. Living in constant fear of a new attack, life is grim and unrelenting. As part of the resistance group, The Corps, Lex and his family enjoy a degree of protection on The Strip but the constant surveillance of drones means that they are never safe from the sinister reach of the military. Former gamer and now drone pilot, Alan has been assigned Lex's father as a target. Drilled in military procedure, Alan leads a lonely life away from the safety and structure of the base. Watching Lex and his family every day, Alan begins to feel an unlikely bond with his quarry and starts to question the unstoppable and deadly collision of their worlds. We See Everything is a terrifying, fast-paced and moving account of a world that feels not-too-distant from our own. Whilst touching on political themes and the inhumanity of war, it focuses on Lex and his relationship with his family and girlfriend, Zoe. My only complaint is the lack of a background story, I would love to know why London has been reduced to this state. There are some clues to the timeline but I think the context is (maybe deliberately) is a little hazy. However, it's a brilliantly-written and important read for the 12 plus age group and is the sort of book that can easily be devoured in one sitting. Pages 257 / Ages 12+ / Reviewed by Clare Wilkins, school librarian.

Suggested Reading Age 11+