I had previously picked up this book, read a few chapters, and put it down. The second time I picked it up, I got all the way through, although it took me perhaps a little longer than it should have. The first 150 pages are dreadfully slow, and involve world building and politics. The last third is where it finally gets interesting, with a fight between the people of Sparks and the people of Ember coming to a head. I do appreciate the descriptions of the town of Sparks, the struggles of the people of Ember to get used to living outside (that is, not underground) and learning so many new things that their old world didn't have. The rate that the tensions ramped up between the two peoples was believable, and both sides had solid arguments and valid reasons for feeling the way they did. It was just... not that interesting to me. My favorite part was when Lina hitched a ride with roamer Caspar and got to see the broken city. I'd really like to see more of that type of life in this dystopian world- traveling and discovering relics from the past and seeing old, demolished cities. This sequel is the natural way that City of Ember would certainly have continued, but I just wish it was a little more exciting.

Lina is a very interesting character, and in this book I felt that she was developed quite nicely. The whole story revolves around more of communities and communication, as suddenly, two groups must learn to survive either together or apart. However, decisions are awfully hard to make with so many people, and the two protagonists start wondering if anything good can come out of such drastic changes and adaptations. Excellent read, would recommend for readers of 10 years and up to maybe 13.
- @Siri of the Teen Review Board of the Hamilton Public Library

In the thrilling second book of The People of Ember series, the people of ember have escaped their old home and taken shelter in the village of sparks. Except the people of sparks are not very happy about the new arrivals

this is an awesome book,the diamond
of bookville

Still pretty good. Shows how people from opposite sides should really come together and work as one.

Ok. Nothing better than Ok. But I think its worth reading.

Lost me a bit most of the book, but when I reread it, I understood perfectly. The second book flowed wonderfully with the first one.

Just as good as the first. I was unable to put this one down either. I think it gives us a clear picture of how wars are sparked (no pun intended) and how easy it is to start them. Another must read by Jeanne DuPrau.

Love this book! I haven't even read it yet but the way the first book (the city of ember) is; I'm desperate to read this!

nice book