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.
Media
To read an excerpt from the book, click here.
Teacher’s Guide
A Teacher’s Guide is available.
Reviews
“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