Books in the series The House of the Scorpion

The House of the Scorpion is a gripping, National Book Award-winning masterpiece that explores the profound question of what it means to be human. Set in the futuristic country of Opium, located between the United States and Mexico, the story follows Matt Alacrán. Matt is not an ordinary boy; he is a clone of the powerful drug lord El Patrón. While most clones are treated as mindless livestock, Matt is granted an education and a life of luxury because El Patrón views him as his own youth reborn. However, as Matt grows older, he begins to realize the dark truth behind his existence and the sinister plans his creator has for him.

This thought-provoking novel is perfect for children who love dystopian fiction and readers interested in science fiction that tackles deep ethical questions. It is an ideal choice for fans of The Giver or The Hunger Games who are looking for a more philosophical and character-driven adventure. Nancy Farmer creates a rich, immersive world that challenges readers to think about individuality, power, and the importance of choosing one's own path. It is a great choice for middle school and high school students who enjoy complex world-building and high-stakes survival stories.

Highlights:

• A unique and compelling exploration of cloning and bioethics.
• A high-stakes survival story set in a vivid, dystopian landscape.
• Deeply emotional journey of a protagonist fighting for his own identity.
• Winner of the National Book Award and a Newbery Honor.

In this gripping sequel to the award-winning The House of the Scorpion, fourteen-year-old Matt Alacrán finds himself in an impossible position. No longer just a clone living in the shadows, Matt is now the official Lord of Opium, a vast drug empire located on the border of the US and Mexico. Inheriting the power of the late El Patrón, Matt must navigate a world filled with microchipped workers, political intrigue, and a global environmental crisis. While the rest of the world has become a polluted wasteland, Opium remains a pristine but oppressive oasis that Matt is determined to transform for the better.

This thought-provoking science fiction novel is perfect for children and teens who love complex dystopian worlds and stories about moral courage. Readers will be captivated by Matt’s struggle to break a cycle of violence and his quest to find trustworthy allies in a land built on secrets. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in ethics, technology, and environmental themes, offering a deep dive into what it truly means to be human. Fans of high-stakes adventure and character-driven narratives will find this conclusion to Matt's journey both satisfying and challenging.

Highlights:

• Explores deep ethical questions about cloning, power, and environmental responsibility.
• A compelling protagonist who must grow from a victim into a leader.
• Richly detailed world-building that blends science fiction with social commentary.
• Perfect for fans of dystopian classics looking for more complex, mature themes.