Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins

Hello everyone, this week’s post is a review that I had put off for a while. The title is the first instalment in an intriguing series of tween fantasy reads by best-selling author of The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins. I hope to see you below for more details…

Title: Gregor the Overlander

Author: Suzanne Collins

Genre: Fiction – contemporary/fantasy

Publication details: Scholastic Press; NY, 2003

ISBN: 9780439771344  (Paperback)

What this book is about: When Gregor follows his little sister through a grate in the laundry room of their apartment building, he hurtles into the dark Underland beneath the city. There, humans live uneasily beside giant spiders, bats, cockroaches, and rats – but the fragile peace is about to fall apart. Gregor wants no part of a conflict between these creepy creatures. But when he discovers that a strange prophecy foretells a role for him in the Underland, he realizes it might be the only way to solve the biggest mystery of his life. This unforgettable novel by Suzanne Collins, is rich in suspense and brimming with adventure. 

My review: A really interesting read that starts the Underland Chronicles!! I think I read Jeanne DuPrau’s The City of Ember, just before I heard of this but I don’t know why I kept putting off reading this!! Readers will find an adventure story rich in plot with a cast of interesting characters and witty dialogue. Despite the creepy descriptions of giant rats, cockroaches, bats and spiders everywhere this is a tale that will appeal to all kids!! Being an older sibling, the dynamics between Gregor and his little sister, Boots, was one I enjoyed throughout this series. Be sure to check out the rest of this series as the overall story is one you will not have imagined!! 

Additional notes: This title has been nominated for Rebecca Caudill Young Reader’s Book Award in 2007, and Waterstones Children’s Book Prize in 2006 among others.

My rating: 4 ⭐