Pandemic by Yvonne Ventresca

Synopsis:
Even under the most normal circumstances, high school can be a painful and confusing time. Unfortunately, Lilianna's circumstances are anything but normal. Only a few people know what caused her sudden change from model student to the withdrawn pessimist she has become, but her situation isn't about to get any better. When people begin coming down with a quick-spreading illness that doctors are unable to treat, Lil's worst fears are realized. With her parents called away on business before the contagious outbreak-her father in Delaware covering the early stages of the disease and her mother in Hong Kong and unable to get a flight back to New Jersey-Lil's town is hit by what soon becomes a widespread illness and fatal disaster. Now, she's more alone than she's been since the "incident" at her school months ago.

With friends and neighbors dying all around her, Lil does everything she can just to survive. But as the disease rages on, so does an unexpected tension as Lil is torn between an old ex and a new romantic interest. Just when it all seems too much, the cause of her original trauma shows up at her door. In this thrilling debut from author Yvonne Ventresca, Lil must find a way to survive not only the outbreak and its real-life consequences, but also her own personal demons.

My Thoughts:
I haven't read many natural disaster stories (if you can call bird flu a natural disaster). I'm more of a zombie person. That being said, I really enjoyed Pandemic. I will definitely be reading more natural disaster stories in the future.

The writing of Pandemic was phenomenal. As someone who suffers from frequent anxiety attacks, I thought the author' portrayal of anxiety was extremely accurate. I have never had PTSD, or been through the situation that Lil goes through. However, I thought the author did a great job handling such a delicate topic. I felt for the characters. When something happens to Jay, Ty, Cam, and Lil, I was flipping pages wondering if they were going to get out of their situation.

I liked all of the characters. I don't think I can choose a favorite. All of the characters had a pivotal role in the story. Even the characters that died earlier in the beginning of the story helped to shape the story line into what it became.

I greatly enjoyed Pandemic. It wasn't just the typical apocalypse story. The book had a few things that made it unique. I recommend Pandemic to young adults thirteen and older.

I give Pandemic: 4/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://www.yvonneventresca.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YvonneVentrescaAuthor
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonneventresca
Pintrest: http://www.pinterest.com/yvonneventresca/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/YvonneVentresca
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/317481.Yvonne_Ventresca

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.