Pure
Second Story Press, for ages 12 plus
Pure forever. Protect the gene pool. Stake a claim in the New Canadian North. With noble mottos, Purity hangs over us like an ominous spider ready to strike anyone who can’t prove they have pure, unaltered DNA. And I was only another stupid fly caught in their web.
Set in a future where genetic engineering of humans is forbidden, Pure tells the story of Lenni – a misfit artist who discovers she has a surprising gift for healing. When her powers become obvious to the predatory Genetic Purity Council, Lenni must prove she has pure, unaltered DNA or be labeled skidge – an illegal genetic experiment gone wrong. As Lenni searches out a way to belong in a world that demands perfection, the relentless Purity is determined to uncover secrets that even Lenni can’t imagine.
Pure was selected by Resource Links as Best of the Year 2006.
A Teacher’s Guide is available.
“Pure is a welcome addition to the speculative fiction genre, and is a fascinating and thought-provoking novel that will not easily be forgotten.”
Canadian Children’s Book News
“I get excited when I find new examples of rocking girls … [Pure's] heroine comes pretty darn close to perfect.”
Kiss Machine
“Explores timely questions about the possibilities for good and for evil of genetic engineering … also the human need for compassion.”
City Parent
“Pure works well as a metaphor for growing up, breaking ties with one’s parents and discovering one’s true path in the world. A satisfying read for adults and teens alike.”
Monday Magazine
“There is a lot here for an English teacher to explore with students: a title that proves to be ironic, an apt quotation by Leonard Cohen in the preface, a clever plot with well-placed surprises and engaging characters. Written with simple figures of speech, in language that won’t leave students struggling to understand, it is definitely a solid class read.”
Professionally Speaking: The Magazine of the Ontario College of Teachers
“This is an excellent read. Krossing creates a futuristic society based on something that isn’t real – perfection.”
Resource Links
“Simply written, Pure is interesting enough to recommend to reluctant readers.”
School Library Journal
“Lenni’s story in Pure is not only a good read, but it can teach you something too.”
What If? Magazine
