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Cover of SYNAP
2.14

Based on 14 Goodreads ratings

SYNAP

by Shiloh’s father, Director Raguel, oversees each new robot\u002Doperating “Driver.” Shiloh, like others before them, uses something called the Axon Connection to power the machine (or try to), but that link weakens or goes away entirely when Drivers reach the age of 25 (“Your connection is strongest before your brain finishes developing”). So, Synap must continually train new Drivers, like Shiloh’s sister Angeline, Driver Six. In the virtual reality–like Axon, Shiloh keeps seeing images of Vivian, Synap’s very first Driver. If these are just memories, how is Vivian interacting with Shiloh? Meanwhile, Earth anticipates a visitor from the sky—perhaps an alien race that wants its machine back. Moses’ story is jampacked with goodies, including dynamic characters and a vivid backstory. Readers are treated to such unforgettable scenes as Angeline in a submersible deep in the Pacific Ocean and Vanessa (another former Driver) leading a team of armed soldiers on a mission in Xinjiang. Relationships fuel the narrative of this graphic novel as Synap’s Lynne Seti actively trains Shiloh, and Angeline and Vanessa appear to have a falling out. The action and mystery pick up as the story progresses and readers learn more about the mysterious Vivian (and an even more enigmatic glowing figure that suddenly emerges). Everything leads to a stellar cliffhanger that will surely leave readers eagerly awaiting further installments. Giannini’s sleek artwork outfits the diverse cast with chicness, from the stylish Synap uniforms to Vanessa’s eyebrow slits to Vivian’s lilac hair."

Book Details

Publisher:Of
Published:2024-01-01
Pages:120
Format:paperback
Language:English
ISBN:9781545817

Reading Info

Age Range:12-18

About This Book

This innovative guide to brain science and neural pathways offers young readers a fascinating journey into the workings of the human mind, exploring how thoughts form and memories are created through...

Our Review

This innovative guide to brain science and neural pathways offers young readers a fascinating journey into the workings of the human mind, exploring how thoughts form and memories are created through accessible neuroscience concepts. The book masterfully breaks down complex neurological processes into engaging, understandable segments that will captivate curious middle school and high school students interested in biology and psychology. Through vivid explanations of synaptic connections and brain plasticity, it transforms abstract scientific concepts into tangible learning experiences that feel both relevant and exciting.

What sets this neuroscience exploration apart is its emphasis on practical applications, showing readers how understanding brain function can improve study habits, memory retention, and emotional regulation. The material strikes an ideal balance between scientific accuracy and age-appropriate presentation, making it equally valuable for classroom enrichment and independent discovery. Teen readers will come away with not just knowledge about how their brains work, but practical tools for optimizing their own cognitive development during these crucial learning years.

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