Helpful Score: 12
Absolutely charming and fun to read. Although it's not classified as a book for young adults, my 12-yr-old daughter and all of her friends read it and loved it. My daughter carried the book everywhere she went and couldn't put it down - and, that's a first! I'm a Patterson fan, and I cannot believe this is his work because it's so unlike anything else he has written. Excellent read for adults and "tweens." Feel free to email with any questions. ~LeAnn
Ashley B. (daredevilgirl013) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 746 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 10
A very good book, works great for any age level. This book goes on about a group of children who were experiments and how they have banded together to create their own family in the face of danger.
A. J. C. (Bibliocrates) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 252 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 7
I really liked this book, but I felt that there was not enough back story, no explanations as to what happened to these bird kids, why they were experimented on, who their parents were, just tortuous hints that they were supposed to save the world. Also, after 400 plus pages of repeated escape and capture, I was a bit annoyed with the cliffhanger ending. I do realize this is a serial novel and I look forward to reading the rest of this series, an enjoyable, quick read, not just for teens!
Helpful Score: 4
A unique story about a group of kids with an unusual life....a thrill ride from beginning to end!
Helpful Score: 4
Keep in mind, this was written for the younger set. That said, I think it was great - I read it through in one day. It's not like his adult books but I think it will go over well with younger readers.
Gwendolyn L. (Wendyreader) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
Wonderful first book in a great series. It is a great story for Pre-teens, Teens and adults. Quick read, short chapters, high interest. A really nice pick for a reluctant reader
Helpful Score: 3
The Angel Experiment starts out feeling choppy but gets better quickly. A good easy read. Appropriate for older children and adults. Worth reading.
Helpful Score: 3
Some of James Patterson's faithful readers will have read When The Wind Blows and/or The Lake House and already be familiar with a winged girl names Max. As Patterson carefully points out, the Max in this series is not the same girl, and this series is not connected with the two earlier books. The Angel Experiment begins a new series written to be enjoyed by younger readers (teens and pre-teens) as well as adults, and it succeeds beautifully. As a longtime science fiction fan but relative newcomer to Patterson's work, I found myself unable to put this book down; as soon as I finished it, I began looking for its sequel, School's Out - Forever, and the rest of the Maximum Ride series. I recommend it highly.
Helpful Score: 2
This was a very fast paced piece of work from James Patterson. Very SciFi. Totaly cool, I couldn't put it down!
Helpful Score: 2
Oh how fun! This was kind of like visiting the same characters, just a different story. I cannot get enough of the bird kids :) And this was more of a YA read, so it was fast, fun and an easy read for me while at a conference, in the evenings. Definitely one of Patterson's best!
Helpful Score: 1
This book is amazing! I have read all of the books in the series. I have not found any greater series than this! It is about a girl named Max and her 'pack', which includes Fang,14, Iggy,14, Gazzy, 8, Angel, 7, and Nudge, 11. What is really cool is that all of the kids can fly because they have wings! The kids are running from the scientists, or whitecoats as they call them, that created them. While running, they are slowly finding out that they are all developing extra powers. It is a story of friendship, and adventure! If you like really action-adventrue stories, then this is your type of book series for you!!
Helpful Score: 1
I just couldn't get into this James Patterson book. The reviews are good but just not for me.
Helpful Score: 1
Rating: 4/5
Modern day fantasy written for 10+ year olds. The story revolves around a group of kids who have been experimented on and biologically enhanced. They try to live free while being hounded by employees of the facility from which they escaped.
The book moves along fairly well, and the characters are enjoyable. The writing is informal (from the main character's point of view) and includes teen romance/angst elements. Nice, quick read.
Modern day fantasy written for 10+ year olds. The story revolves around a group of kids who have been experimented on and biologically enhanced. They try to live free while being hounded by employees of the facility from which they escaped.
The book moves along fairly well, and the characters are enjoyable. The writing is informal (from the main character's point of view) and includes teen romance/angst elements. Nice, quick read.
Yvonne M. S. (woodworm) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 92 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I bought this for my son just a few days ago and he completely dove and devoured every word and is happily anticipating the second installment coming out the end of May.
Helpful Score: 1
Although the book had its strong points, it wasn't one of my favorite reads. The book lacked a solid plot and the same events happened in nearly every chapter - the group faces peril and escapes. The ending is inconclusive and highly disappointing, leaving the reader exactly where we started - confused.
Gretchen A. (yellowdance) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
At times this book gets a bit repetitious, perhaps that is deliberate for the younger audience it is intended for. But it is a quick, easy, and compelling read. Great characters.
Helpful Score: 1
Bought this book for my son, ended up reading it myself. Great story, very fast read. Can't wait to read the next two.
Helpful Score: 1
An action-packed adventure about six young 'escapees' form an institution called "The School. This ragtag group of genetic experiments is led by a maternal fourteen-year-old named Max, who is determined to keep them out of 'School', and safe in their mountain home. But that wish becomes a real challenge when the youngest of the 'flock' is kidnapped by another group of genetically engineered werewolves, called 'Erasers'.
Now Max must take the Flock from their secure nest and fly--using their own genetically added wings--all over the country on a rescue mission that quickly becomes a mission of discovery...about themselves, and their (preordained?) futures.
The story is written in lots of short chapters, and is extremely active. Readers will have a hard time setting this book down. I am waiting anxiously for the sequel to come in the mail!
Now Max must take the Flock from their secure nest and fly--using their own genetically added wings--all over the country on a rescue mission that quickly becomes a mission of discovery...about themselves, and their (preordained?) futures.
The story is written in lots of short chapters, and is extremely active. Readers will have a hard time setting this book down. I am waiting anxiously for the sequel to come in the mail!
Helpful Score: 1
great book
Helpful Score: 1
Much fun!
Helpful Score: 1
The first book in the Maximum Ride series was the best, for me. Max and her little family/flock of winged kids have escaped from a laboratory and they're trying to make their way in the world - hiding, foraging, and trying to keep off the radar of the people who made and caged them. In the first book, Max is a great heroine, her family are brilliant characters (especially Angel and Gasman) and the writing isn't preachy or repetitive like I'm afraid it's tended toward in the more recent installments.
Helpful Score: 1
Part one of the Max Ride series. James Patterson brings his prodigious thriller writing chops to bear in the Juvinille Fiction genre. If you liked the X-Men movies, you'll love The Angel Experiment.
Konnie K. (Nightcrawler) -
Helpful Score: 1
Summary:Genetically engineered Max and her friends are 98% human and 2% bird. An adventure story about young adults struggling to survive and discovering whom they are and why they were created along the way.
Personal response:A very fun and engaging book.I do not know of snyone who has not dreamed they could fly.The characters are enjoyable and the special bond they have with each other and feel their longing to belong to a family engages you. The characters make the reader think about what hate is and what purpose does it serve.
Personal response:A very fun and engaging book.I do not know of snyone who has not dreamed they could fly.The characters are enjoyable and the special bond they have with each other and feel their longing to belong to a family engages you. The characters make the reader think about what hate is and what purpose does it serve.
Helpful Score: 1
Six unforgettable kids - with no families, no homes - are running for their lives. Max Ride and her best friends are products of an experiment: they were engineered to fly. . . This is a different take on the winged kids from The Lake House. It is NOT the same story. I liked this story but not as much as The Lake House.
Helpful Score: 1
Can't wait for the next one!
Helpful Score: 1
I was a little dissapointed. Patterson can move things right along. But it isn't at all clear where the book is going in the first place, then it just stops with no conclusion. Gee, do I have to buy the next book to find out what's going on? Guess so.
Tammy P. (bookluver-in-sc) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 229 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This James Patterson book is about a group of people experimenting on kids and how they escape and live on their own. A good read.
Helpful Score: 1
I just couldn't get into this one as much as his others.
Helpful Score: 1
Although I am a big follower of Patterson's other series, I really enjoyed this Young Adult read-very exciting!
Helpful Score: 1
This book is one recommended to me by a friend. I was sketchy at first on how it would work out. But I loved it all the interesting twists and turns. It does at some points seem plotless but I think it is probably one of the best books I've ever read. It's like X Men with a twist. And I've always been a marvel girl.
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book and the two after it. I initially read Where The Wind Blows and Beach House which are the 'adult' version of this story about a group of children who have been injected in utero with bird DNA and what they will do to be free.
Helpful Score: 1
I love the Max books by Patterson. A fun book for adults or teens.
Helpful Score: 1
the beginning of a great series! a great teen read!
Helpful Score: 1
STRAP YOURSELF IN for the thrill riide you'll want to take again and again!From Death Valley, California to the bowls of the New York City subway system, you're about to take off on a heart-stopping adventure that will blow you away...Your faithful companioons:Max,Fabg,Iggy,Nudge,the Gasman, and Angel. Six kids who are pretty normal in most ways...except that they are 98% human, 2% bird. they greew up in a lab, living like rats in cages, but now they're FREE. Aside from the fact that they are hunted by Erasers-wicked, wolf-like creatures with a taste for flying humans...
Helpful Score: 1
I thought the book, The Angel Experiment, was well written. easy to read. read over half the book on first sitting. I enjoyed it so much I have ordered the rest of the series. 4 out of 5 stars is a very good rating.
Helpful Score: 1
James Patterson is a prolific and accomplished writer. He has skillfully crafted a YA urban fantasy about kids infected by scientists with a virus that gives them extraordinary powers. The story is original and suspenseful. However, IMO it would appeal to preteens rather than older teens or above. The five star rating is given for interested young teens. Adults would find it interesting and a quick read.
Helpful Score: 1
Six children have been engineered to fly. This book had nothing to do with Patterson's earlier books- When the Winds Blows and the Lake House. This book is about six new children and their amazing powers including the ability to fly
Helpful Score: 1
A totally different side of James Patterson. Very sci-fi. I liked it because I like sci-fi books.
Great series beginning for young ( and older) readers. No sex, but there are graphically described fights. I read this one quickly and moved on to the second in the series, it was a great interesting and gripping text!
Helpful Score: 1
I loved the book. Now my teenage boys are reading it. Excellent read. Thanks!!!
Kandis N. (bookermom) - , reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 323 more book reviews
A masterpiece of adventure, mystery, and suspense!
This book was very easy to get into. And a fast read because I didn't want to put it down.
another fantastic novel about the "winged children".
Loved this series, especially this one; nicely paced & typical James Patterson descriptive style.
I love james patterson - this one is much different than most of his books, but still a great read.
Great young adult venture for James Patterson. I couldn't put the book down for hours!
James Patterson's more creative series about 6 kids with wings and the agency that wants them back at all costs.
This is a fun easy read that those young MG readers could appreciate as well as adults who just like a good adventure. In some ways the set up in this story reminded me of Dark Angel in where there are kids who "belong" to a lab and then fight their way to freedom and staying that way. After that, the resemblance ends. You then have a unique telling of mutants learning to navigate the world which they know won't accept them.
The adventure these kids have is quite intense and you can't wait to find out all of the answers to the questions that form as they fight to save one of their own. Fight to save Angel, the littlest from a fate worse than death. Along the way they learn more about the world than they ever thought possible and find some unlikely help along the way. However, even while on the hot trail of learning more about their past and what they were told was true or not, they find that they can't trust anything or anyone outside of the flock.
Although I liked all the main characters, my biggest complaint about this book is that it is hard to really connect on a deep level to the kids. It makes sense because their whole life is crises management and so little time is left for really knowing who they truly are. However, since this is only one book in a series, I feel that the connection will come and probably sooner than later. You can see things falling in place within this book for that to happen.
I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I think it is a fast and fun book for the beginning to this series. I recommend it to those that enjoy UF and YA.
The adventure these kids have is quite intense and you can't wait to find out all of the answers to the questions that form as they fight to save one of their own. Fight to save Angel, the littlest from a fate worse than death. Along the way they learn more about the world than they ever thought possible and find some unlikely help along the way. However, even while on the hot trail of learning more about their past and what they were told was true or not, they find that they can't trust anything or anyone outside of the flock.
Although I liked all the main characters, my biggest complaint about this book is that it is hard to really connect on a deep level to the kids. It makes sense because their whole life is crises management and so little time is left for really knowing who they truly are. However, since this is only one book in a series, I feel that the connection will come and probably sooner than later. You can see things falling in place within this book for that to happen.
I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I think it is a fast and fun book for the beginning to this series. I recommend it to those that enjoy UF and YA.
GREAT book! Really makes you think about where science is heading! Introduced this book to my 8th graders and they love it.
Six unforgettable kide-with no families, no homes-are runnung for their lives. Max Ride and her best friends are products of an experiment: they were engineered to fly. And that's just the beginningof their amazing powers. Now they've escaped, and they need to know who made them, who's hunting them, and why they were designed to be superior to all other humans.
Just finished this one, and I totally enjoyed it. Fast paced and great characters. Can't wait to read the second in the series. Great for young and older readers alike. Way better than that Potter kid. Having read both As the Wind Blows and Lake House, it was hard not to associate these characters with those, but I lived through it. You have just got to read this book!
Shari G. (SecondChance) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 64 more book reviews
Part I of a series.
Wow...what a rollar coaster ride.
My son Loved this book. Would recommend for teens.
My 11 year old son was having a lot of trouble getting into books. However he LOVES this book, it's a great action adventure and the chapters are SUPER short so it kept his attention very easily. Plus, I am able to say just read a chapter - when I know we have a short wait for something. GREAT READ!!!
I absolutley hated this book. I will continue the series because that is the way I am but I am hoping and praying they get better.
Christine S. (moondog77) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 21 more book reviews
This was a good read, alittle young for me(NO ROMANCE)but overall I liked the storyline. Book 2 picks up alot faster than the first.
Woa i jst fished this book today and i cant believe that it actually hooked me. Woa i love this and i cant wait to order the next one.
Great story! Ordered this for my 10 year old son, but I ended up not being able to put it down. So, we enjoyed the experience together. Highly recommend this series!
Good book and storyline. I'm a James Patterson fan--with my favs being Alex Cross. This book definitely brings back memories of "When the Wind Blows" although they are supposed to be entirely different stories according to the author. My kids have now read these books too and have suggested it to there friends.
If you have 10-14 year olds who have yet to discover the joy of reading, try letting them read about Maximum Ride. James Patterson writes plot heavy, fast-paced, chapters that may keep that child reading. As a literature teacher, I sometimes cringe at recommending Patterson's books (Daniel X included) but I have had several middle school students read the whole series. They have to practice reading to read better, and to avoid making reading a "Total" misery, they need to be interested in their book. Maximum Ride has the potential to be an enjoyable reading experience for many reluctant readers.
Marcia S. (busterboomer) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 96 more book reviews
Really liked this. Action beginning to end.
This book draws you in from the very start. Love the series.
Six unforgettable kids with no families and no homes, are running for their lives. Max Ride and her best friends are products of an experiment: they were engineered to fly. And that's just the beginning of their amazing powers. Now they've escaped, and they need to know who made them, who's hunting them, and why they were designed to be superior to all other humans.
Love the Max Books
Very fun book to read.
Jennifer S. (ladydaungerous) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 21 more book reviews
A good story with a sympathetic heroine. The writing is really cool because it's sort of like a video game -- action/adventure pretty much nonstop -- but with character development.
This one is great. It's the first in a series. If you've never read James Patterson, it's definately a good one to start with! happy reading
Fast-paced and exciting. I read this cover to cover one rainy day. Perfect!
DIFFERENT BUT GOOD
Marci and Duane S. (flame60) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 200 more book reviews
Patterson has done it...a new concept...children who fly!
fast paced reading
fast paced reading
Ethel I. (RoyalCatwoman) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 278 more book reviews
A group of genetically enhanced kids who can fly and have other unique talents are on the run from part-human, part-wolf predators called Erasers in this exciting SF thriller that's not wholly original but is still a compelling read. Max, 14, and her adopted familyFang and Iggy, both 13, Nudge, 11, Gazzy, 8, and Angel, 6were all created as experiments in a lab called the School. Jeb, a sympathetic scientist, helped them escape and, since then, they've been living on their own. The Erasers have orders to kill them so the world will never find out they exist. Max's old childhood friend, Ari, now an Eraser leader, tracks them down, kidnaps Angel, and transports her back to the School to live like a lab rat again. The youngsters are forced to use their special talents to rescue her as they attempt to learn about their pasts and their destinies. The novel ends with the promise that this journey will continue in the sequel. As with Patterson's adult mystery thrillers, in-depth characterization is secondary to the fast-moving plot.
Strange but interesting read. Is a lot like his previous book When the Wind Blows.
Barbara S. (barbsis) -
Max, Fang, Gazzy, Iggy, Nudge and Angel are bird-kids held captive by a sinister group. These people are cross-breeding humans with various animal forms. Max and the gang escape and these are their adventures. As a series starter, it is terrific and really draws you in. You can't help but root for these poor kids who are bombarded left and right by evil. This is a great young adult series.
Beverly M. (Chilypepah) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
Another great read by Patterson about the "children with wings"
Excellent book!
My heart went out to the kids in this book, what survivors they are.
Wow! Patterson takes us for a ride, to the Max! Can't wait for the next book for sure.
Not bad for a *teen* book, although at first I thought it a sequel to Lake House ..
If you've started on the Angel series, this is a must read. Patterson
as usual, is great. New York Times Bestseller
as usual, is great. New York Times Bestseller
This is a continuation of the Lake House- sort of. The children are not the same ones but the premis is the same. It's a fun fast read and very "Patterson"
Winston C. (Crabby-doctor) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 296 more book reviews
I read this book not long ago and enjoyed it very much. I can hardly wait for the next one in the series to come out in paperback!
Great!!! Very similar to The Lakehouse.
Great Read... This is the book about the children who could fly, and each one has a special ability.. makes you want the book to go on and on and on....
Brandy V. (brandelyn75) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 37 more book reviews
Great Author as always!Couldnt put the book down.
A fun, light novel about kids with wings. The writing style is very fresh and current and the story is good. Not War and Peace, but a good summer read.
I read quite a few YA books and this one was certainly NOT one that I would recommend. It seemed flat and written "down" just because the target reader is a "youth" doesn't mean the writer has to write "down", being young doesn't mean that the reader can't understand good writing. If you want a good YA series skip Patterson and read some of Scott Westerfeld's books or Jonathan Stroud, at least those authors aren't just trying to fulfill a contract for their editor which is what this book felt like. Flat & rushed.
Ethel I. (RoyalCatwoman) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 278 more book reviews
A group of genetically enhanced kids who can fly and have other unique talents are on the run from part-human, part-wolf predators called Erasers in this exciting SF thriller that's not wholly original but is still a compelling read. Max, 14, and her adopted familyFang and Iggy, both 13, Nudge, 11, Gazzy, 8, and Angel, 6were all created as experiments in a lab called the School. Jeb, a sympathetic scientist, helped them escape and, since then, they've been living on their own. The Erasers have orders to kill them so the world will never find out they exist. Max's old childhood friend, Ari, now an Eraser leader, tracks them down, kidnaps Angel, and transports her back to the School to live like a lab rat again. The youngsters are forced to use their special talents to rescue her as they attempt to learn about their pasts and their destinies. The novel ends with the promise that this journey will continue in the sequel. As with Patterson's adult mystery thrillers, in-depth characterization is secondary to the fast-moving plot.
There can be no disputing James Patterson's writing ability, though I have not liked his adult books. This was because of subject matter, not writing. This book , Maximum Ride, skims the borderline between sci fi and ordinary literature. It contains just enough of the outrageous to captivate a teen or even a Young- Adult -book- reading -grandma like me. I enjoyed it immensley. Patterson has the ability to make the absurd realistic. When I finished this book I sent it to my grandsons. They will have to wait in line, though, because my son got it first and is reading it.
I liked book II also and am waiting for book III to arrive.
I liked book II also and am waiting for book III to arrive.
Very good book. While categorized on the young adult reading level, this is a good read for all ages. The pace is fast and there are twists and turns everywhere. Highly recommend.
I loved this book. It really is a maximum ride. I really developed an affection for Max ant the other children in this story. What a great read!
Natasha S. (tashajean) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 146 more book reviews
Teens who have survived genetic experimentation collect together to form a family and keep eachother safe.
One of those that you just can't put down once you started reading. Six unforgettable kids, no families, no homes, running for their lives. What amazing powers they have!!
I found it hard to keep interest in this book. It is an action (video game type) novel. I usually like Patterson's work and I did like this one it was just hard to keep reading with any enthusiasm.
This is the first in a series. Also appropriate for young adults but I really enjoyed it.
Six unforgettable kids-with no families, no homes-are running for their lives. Max Ride and her best friends are products of an experiment: they were engineered to fly. And that is just the beginning of their amazing powers. Now they've escaped and they need to know who made them, who is hunting them and why they were designed to be superior at all other humans.
My Grandson put it down half way through
Deborah K. (SouthernDeb) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Not at all what I expected from James Patterson--more science fiction than his usual mystery/suspense books--but I enjoyed it!
great book i read it and passed it on to my 12 year old grandson and he is so enjoying it. donna c.
"Special Kids" on the run..a little sci-fi with a story
Robert B. (ghosthunter) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 12 more book reviews
Awesome book!! Even though it is written for a younger crowd it is a lot of fun.
There aren't enough words in the thesaurus to describe exactly how bad this book is. Seriously.
The Maximum Ride series has been lauded by readers and critics alike as the heir apparent poised to pick up the Young Adult superseries mantle now that blockbusters like Harry Potter and Twilight have concluded their stories. They couldn't be more wrong, and I couldn't be more disappointed after wasting my time on this book.
The plot is promising: the title character, Max (aka Maximum Ride) is the result of genetic experimentation, and is 98% human and 2% avian. She and her five "family" members -- other bird kids who have escaped from the uber-bad evil scientist lair called The School -- can fly, are extremely strong and are living on the lamb. The kids, age 6 to 14, are being hunted by other experiments gone wrong, creatures that are part man and part wolf.
Unfortunately, there are so many problems with this book, I hardly know where to begin. The writing is appaulingly bad. I think James Patterson's writing is choppy when he's writing his well-known murder mysteries. But in this series, he tries to adopt a young adult voice, and it's just painful and plodding. He uses the same words over and over, and his writing has no texture.
The character development is practically non-existant. We're thrown this large cast of characters that the reader is supposed to care about instantly, but they hardly kept my interest. The chapters are illogically short -- sometimes only three pages -- and break at odd places. It feels like the book was written for reluctant teen readers that needed short chapters to give them a sense of accomplishment upon fishishing them. I just found it annoying.
The straw that broke the camel's back for me was the subplot of Angel, the youngest of the clan that has been kidnapped at the beginning of the book by the School's scientists. I'm a mother of a five-year-old. I don't need to read about souless researchers keeping a preschooler in a cage and torturing her. The book has virtually no descriptions except for the pain and suffering Angel goes through. It was upsetting and further distanced me from the book. At the end, I just wanted to get through it so I could move on to something else.
If you have a 10 to 15-year-old boy or girl in your life that doesn't like to read, this book might be a good introduction to longer novels. The language is simple, and the plot should be intriging for that age group. I, personally, would rather have dental surgery than pick up any of the last three books in the series, though
The Maximum Ride series has been lauded by readers and critics alike as the heir apparent poised to pick up the Young Adult superseries mantle now that blockbusters like Harry Potter and Twilight have concluded their stories. They couldn't be more wrong, and I couldn't be more disappointed after wasting my time on this book.
The plot is promising: the title character, Max (aka Maximum Ride) is the result of genetic experimentation, and is 98% human and 2% avian. She and her five "family" members -- other bird kids who have escaped from the uber-bad evil scientist lair called The School -- can fly, are extremely strong and are living on the lamb. The kids, age 6 to 14, are being hunted by other experiments gone wrong, creatures that are part man and part wolf.
Unfortunately, there are so many problems with this book, I hardly know where to begin. The writing is appaulingly bad. I think James Patterson's writing is choppy when he's writing his well-known murder mysteries. But in this series, he tries to adopt a young adult voice, and it's just painful and plodding. He uses the same words over and over, and his writing has no texture.
The character development is practically non-existant. We're thrown this large cast of characters that the reader is supposed to care about instantly, but they hardly kept my interest. The chapters are illogically short -- sometimes only three pages -- and break at odd places. It feels like the book was written for reluctant teen readers that needed short chapters to give them a sense of accomplishment upon fishishing them. I just found it annoying.
The straw that broke the camel's back for me was the subplot of Angel, the youngest of the clan that has been kidnapped at the beginning of the book by the School's scientists. I'm a mother of a five-year-old. I don't need to read about souless researchers keeping a preschooler in a cage and torturing her. The book has virtually no descriptions except for the pain and suffering Angel goes through. It was upsetting and further distanced me from the book. At the end, I just wanted to get through it so I could move on to something else.
If you have a 10 to 15-year-old boy or girl in your life that doesn't like to read, this book might be a good introduction to longer novels. The language is simple, and the plot should be intriging for that age group. I, personally, would rather have dental surgery than pick up any of the last three books in the series, though
Pam S. (pamlovestoread) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 97 more book reviews
A fast-paced, enjoyable read.
Karrie C. (TheCurlClan) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 43 more book reviews
As good as the rest, love Patterson! Keeps you reading!
Great story line.Hope they make into a movie..Can't wait for Maximum
Ride-School's Out Forever...
Ride-School's Out Forever...
Loved it
MELANIE T. (GEORGESTRAITFAN) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 25 more book reviews
JUST ANOTHER GREAT JAMES PATTERSON BOOK!
This book is fast paced and draws you in. It's perfect vacation or, in my case, airplane reading!
Very intriguing YA urban fantasy, but the author never really recognized the potential of the story.
Way better than I orginally thought. Although I had been a fan of Patterson for a while. I saw this book in the stores for years and really wasn't interested in another teen,magic type book, but needless to say it was Not Harry Potter-esque at all! These kids are the result of some weird ,wacky scientists experiments. They generated wings on these pre-teens, some in the womb of their unknown mothers. It's indicated that some the parents knew about the engineering of the wings before hand although it's not quite clear wether that is totally true or not. All in all, I can't wait to recieve book two and the other books in the series to see how it all gets wrapped up. I have faith in Patterson and maybe he will use his political powers in Hollywood to see a movie gets made it would be quite a relief from all the sequels hollywood is making now.
Loved this book can't wait until I get the next one.
Great book, quick reading.
This was a great book. I am looking forward to the next one. I love a plot that is different and this is very different.
Amazing book.
Do you think that reading a novel centered around a group of genetically-altered kids is cliche`? Well, don't. Maximum Ride is epic. It gives hope to all of those geeky teenagers who fear that the purple-prose of Twilight is the best literature they'll get for their generation.
The story's main character is Max, a 14-year-old in charge of her "flock" - Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gazzy, and Angel. They're different from everyone else in that they are 2% avian ("I prefer Avian American" comes up in book two). They have wings, and good eyesight, and make the reader sigh in happiness as Patterson writes of them soaring through the air.
So they have bird in them. They're still teenagers though, kids really. Teenage and young-adult readers will be able to relate to at least one member of the flock (with the exception of Angel, she seems to be the only part in the book that irks me).
Not to mention the plot starts rolling from around chaper 4 (and since one annoyed reviewer complained of the short chapter length, that's like 20 pages - tops). You start it, and then you read it, and then you have three more lines until the end of the 20-some chapter but ooohhh, you have to keep reading!
Keep reading, it's good.
Right. Well, the plot starts going when 5-year-old Angel is kidnapped by a group of 'Erasers' - who are wolf/human hybrids that don't last so long. The flock's mission is to fly to California - to 'the school' where they were raised and experimented on until 2 years previous - to rescue her.... well, the exception being 14-year-old, blind Iggy and 8-year-old 8-year-old Gazzy.
Don't worry, once they blow up a few buildings they'll join the group.
Of course, it takes awhile for them to get to 'The School' seeing as how Max got herself into some trouble.
I'm starting a synopsis, aren't I?
Look, read it.
Love it.
Thank me.
Hah, I kid on that last part, but really - read it. :3
Do you think that reading a novel centered around a group of genetically-altered kids is cliche`? Well, don't. Maximum Ride is epic. It gives hope to all of those geeky teenagers who fear that the purple-prose of Twilight is the best literature they'll get for their generation.
The story's main character is Max, a 14-year-old in charge of her "flock" - Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gazzy, and Angel. They're different from everyone else in that they are 2% avian ("I prefer Avian American" comes up in book two). They have wings, and good eyesight, and make the reader sigh in happiness as Patterson writes of them soaring through the air.
So they have bird in them. They're still teenagers though, kids really. Teenage and young-adult readers will be able to relate to at least one member of the flock (with the exception of Angel, she seems to be the only part in the book that irks me).
Not to mention the plot starts rolling from around chaper 4 (and since one annoyed reviewer complained of the short chapter length, that's like 20 pages - tops). You start it, and then you read it, and then you have three more lines until the end of the 20-some chapter but ooohhh, you have to keep reading!
Keep reading, it's good.
Right. Well, the plot starts going when 5-year-old Angel is kidnapped by a group of 'Erasers' - who are wolf/human hybrids that don't last so long. The flock's mission is to fly to California - to 'the school' where they were raised and experimented on until 2 years previous - to rescue her.... well, the exception being 14-year-old, blind Iggy and 8-year-old 8-year-old Gazzy.
Don't worry, once they blow up a few buildings they'll join the group.
Of course, it takes awhile for them to get to 'The School' seeing as how Max got herself into some trouble.
I'm starting a synopsis, aren't I?
Look, read it.
Love it.
Thank me.
Hah, I kid on that last part, but really - read it. :3
Opening line: "The funny thing about facing imminent death is that it really snaps everything else into perspective."
Meet Max: a girl taking care of her family of 5, age ranges from 6 to 14. She has all the responsibilities. Making breakfast, waking everyone up, making sure they are dressed, and helping everyone in self defense. Did I mention Max is only 14 years old? This family of six is in hiding. Alone, and without parents, Max is the glue that holds everyone together.
Originally, all 6 kids were at "School"; a laboratory experimenting with gene splicing (a bit of Bioshock anyone?). This particular group of 6 all had their genes spliced with avian DNA- all to different degrees. Side effects included sharper eyesight, blindness, acute hearing, reading minds, and wings averaging in a 13 foot wingspan. Other groups had their genes spliced with wolf DNA- this group is known as the Erasers, or the security for the "School". Luckily, a sympathetic scientist named Jeb rescued the group of 6 and took them to the mountains to hide, and learn self defense. Unfortunately Jeb went missing, and the group presumed he is dead.
For the rest of the review, please visit:
https://quitterstrip.wordpress.com/2016/09/19/warning/
Meet Max: a girl taking care of her family of 5, age ranges from 6 to 14. She has all the responsibilities. Making breakfast, waking everyone up, making sure they are dressed, and helping everyone in self defense. Did I mention Max is only 14 years old? This family of six is in hiding. Alone, and without parents, Max is the glue that holds everyone together.
Originally, all 6 kids were at "School"; a laboratory experimenting with gene splicing (a bit of Bioshock anyone?). This particular group of 6 all had their genes spliced with avian DNA- all to different degrees. Side effects included sharper eyesight, blindness, acute hearing, reading minds, and wings averaging in a 13 foot wingspan. Other groups had their genes spliced with wolf DNA- this group is known as the Erasers, or the security for the "School". Luckily, a sympathetic scientist named Jeb rescued the group of 6 and took them to the mountains to hide, and learn self defense. Unfortunately Jeb went missing, and the group presumed he is dead.
For the rest of the review, please visit:
https://quitterstrip.wordpress.com/2016/09/19/warning/
one of the best
I love the Maximum Ride books. I have read everyone of them and would recommend them to kids of all ages. They are full of non-stop action and adventure and always keep you on edge.
Great fun read will look at the next book in the series
I thought this book was exceptionally good! So different and I could not put it down.
A combination of thriller, detective and science fiction. An excellent book. Keeps you guessing.
Interesting read even for an adult. Teens will like it much more.The new "Boxcar children".
Barbara H. (barbaralois) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 84 more book reviews
Six unforgettable kids are running for their lives. But these are special kids. They are part of a experiment and they can fly along with other amazing powers.
Interesting book, part of a series. Sci fi fans will enjoy it.
Bonnie A. (ladycholla) -
Even tho' more for teens, I loved it.
Good book, developing story line, recommended read,
I really enjoyed this book.
Good Read interesting series
Great book, I finished it in 3 days
i love these maximum ride books i can't wait for the 3rd one
Great book!
Fantastic - I didn't even realize this was for young adults until I started reading the second book in the series. Great premise and plenty of action.
Jeff C. (MysteryMan) -
A fun read, page turner.
Hilarious! All ages will love this book.
Should have stopped at two...
This is one of the James Pattersons book he wrote, totally different than the ones he normally writes. I think is took a different approach in this book.
Jeanette R. (thebeakeeper) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 167 more book reviews
i am so glad my friend told me about this told me about this and that my mom had the series. this is such a great book! a quick read, totally exciting- they really should make a book out of this. i can't wait to start the next book in the series!!! i love all of the characters and where the story is going.
Six unforgettable kids--with no families, no homes--are running for their lives. Max Ride and her best friends are products of an experiment: they were engineered to fly. And that's just the beginning of their amazing powers. Now they've escaped, and they need to know who made them, who's hunting them, and why they were designed to be superior to all other humans. James Patterson calls Maximum Ride: "My favorite story, and probably my best."
Six unforgettable kids - with no families, no homes - are funning for their lives. Max Ride and her best friends are products of an experiment: they were engineered to fly. And that's just the beginning of their amazing powers. Now they've excaped, and they need to know who made them, who's hunting them, and why they were designed to be superior to all other humans. James Patterson calls Maximum Ride: "my favorite story and probably my best." This is book 1 in a series of 3.
Molly M. (freeverse071681) reviewed The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride, Bk 1) on + 609 more book reviews
Six unforgettable kids - with no families, no homes - are funning for their lives. Max Ride and her best friends are products of an experiment: they were engineered to fly. And that's just the beginning of their amazing powers. Now they've excaped, and they need to know who made them, who's hunting them, and why they were designed to be superior to all other humans.
This book sucks. The plot is lame and the writing is lame. If you need some toilet paper for when you go camping than get this book.
