The Program by Suzanne Young

The Program by Suzanne Young

Release Date: April 30, 2013

Publisher: Simon Pulse
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 416

Summary:  In Sloane’s world, true feelings are forbidden, teen suicide is an epidemic, and the only solution is The Program.

Sloane knows better than to cry in front of anyone. With suicide now an international epidemic, one outburst could land her in The Program, the only proven course of treatment. Sloane’s parents have already lost one child; Sloane knows they’ll do anything to keep her alive. She also knows that everyone who’s been through The Program returns as a blank slate. Because their depression is gone—but so are their memories.

Under constant surveillance at home and at school, Sloane puts on a brave face and keeps her feelings buried as deep as she can. The only person Sloane can be herself with is James. He’s promised to keep them both safe and out of treatment, and Sloane knows their love is strong enough to withstand anything. But despite the promises they made to each other, it’s getting harder to hide the truth. They are both growing weaker. Depression is setting in. And The Program is coming for them.

My Thoughts: Whoa, this one was pretty fascinating. We are introduced to Sloane and James. They love one another. They will do anything to keep each other safe. They also have another friend who hangs out with them quite a bit at first. And of course there is also Sloane’s brother who we learn a lot about in flashbacks.

Teens are committing suicide. Its spreading. 1 out of every 3 commit suicide.James and Sloane have lost many friends this way already. The only way to stop it is to be admitted into The Program. Its a place where teens go to make them better. To make them change, to feel better.

I loved reading about Sloane’s brother and I felt like I really got to see him, and got to know him through her memories.

Sloane ends up in this place and she meets another boy who cares deeply for her. As she’s forgetting James, this other boy thinks he might have a chance with her.

People aren’t who they seem. Nothing is really. Its hard to trust anyone. Its hard to trust yourself even once your memories are taken.

I really enjoyed this one. It was weird at times, but in a good way. I loved James. He was such a tough guy but had a gentle heart. I loved the way Sloane and James got together. It was all too cute and romantic.  I loved seeing all the things play out in this one. It was crazy but good.

Overall: Enjoyed it alot. I tend to like Johnson's novels, so I can’t wait to see what else she writes.  I also read this in one sitting, so it did draw me in!

Cover: I like it. I like the yellow and I like how we can’t see their faces, only the backs of them.

What I’d Give It: