The Most Disturbing Young Adult Novel: A Review of 'The Compound'

The young adult (YA) genre has its fair share of thought-provoking and sometimes dark stories. However, The Compound by S.A. Bodeen stands out as a particularly unsettling and disturbing read. This novel, with its intricate plot twists and intense psychological elements, delves into the darker side of human nature.

A Overview of the Plot

The Compound follows the story of Eli, a young boy growing up in a nuclear-attack prepared underground bunker. Created by his manipulative and unstable father, the compound is a perfect sanctuary—all their needs are provided for, including entertainment. But as time passes, the horrifying reality behind their situation begins to unfold.

Character Development and Family Dynamics

The protagonist, Eli, is portrayed as a typical spoiled brat at the beginning of the story. His family dynamic includes his twin brother, his two younger sisters, and his loving grandmother. However, the narrative takes a dark turn when the family is forced to stay underground due to a fabricated nuclear attack scare. This isolation leads to severe psychological and physical consequences.

Food Shortages and Survival

The story becomes even more disturbing as food and other supplies start to mysteriously deplete. The animals in their underground farm also die off, and the large supply of wheat is found to be inedible. The tension builds as the father, driven by a twisted desire to see how far his family will go, starts to suggest eating the younger siblings, which he calls "supplements." He even has a cloning lab set up to create clones for food purposes.

The True Twists and Psychological Manipulation

The plot takes an even more unsettling turn when the unsettling truth is revealed: there was no nuclear attack at all. The father had manipulated everyone, created the underground compound, and deliberately sabotaged their provisions to see how far his family would go to survive. He wanted to test their limits and see them submit to his twisted wishes.

Themes and Implications

The themes of The Compound explore multiple disturbing aspects of human behavior and the lengths one might go to survive. The author masterfully delves into the psychological manipulation and moral complexities. This novel raises questions about trust, family dynamics, and the dark side of human nature.

Entertainment and Literary Value

Despite the disturbing themes, the story is also an engaging and entertaining read. The plot twists and the build-up of tension hold the reader's attention from start to finish. The author's ability to maintain suspense and create a chilling atmosphere makes The Compound a powerful and thought-provoking work in the YA literature genre.

For those looking for a challenging and unsettling story, The Compound by S.A. Bodeen is a must-read. It not only provides a thrilling narrative but also offers a deep insight into the darker aspects of human nature.