You know those books that would become nearly monthly rereads as a kid? Because the world was so transformative & immersive that you wanted to lose yourself within it once again, following the different characters and feeling anxiety and delight at their pains and triumphs, even knowing how the story will end? 

That’s how I felt reading 205Z: Time and Salvation. 

It’s an empowering story, encouraging you to recognize your potential against all odds … and to embrace your identity even when everyone else in your life tells you to suppress it. It’s got thoughtful character arcs. And it’s got an ending that is really an invitation – there’s resolution, but it left me hungering for more even after a nearly 700 page read.

We’re dropped into 2052, with 215 days to go until the end of the world. Living is already deadly: natural disasters have destroyed countries, cities are now considered sanctuaries, and those with privilege are leaving those without in the dust. With time running out, the only people with the possibility to save the planet are genetically-advanced Evolutionaries with all sorts of unique potentials for power.

Teenage Allister Adams finds himself part of the war for salvation, torn between a government-sanctioned entity and a group of radicals. He’s got to master his own powers, have confidence in his identity, and unravel the mysteries surrounding the items that could be humanity’s last hope … all before it’s too late.

Jason Michael Primrose has an incredible gift for world-building. I haven’t read anything quite this unique in a long time – my best attempt to describe it would be a dystopian cyberpunk futuristic fantasy world. It’s intricate and detailed; an explosion of creativity, but with clear purpose.

The cast of characters, tech, and world are brought to life by gorgeous illustrations. The pictures are often full-page renderings of characters in action, and they added so much depth to the reading experience. There’s also jaw-dropping music and animation teasers online - I highly recommend checking those out!

There’s a huge amount of diversity within the characters here - between identities and backgrounds, you’ll see yourself represented on the page in some way. It’s so intimate & empowering to see a broad, intentionally inclusive world. We get POVs from kids and adults, from heroes and villains, from past and present and everything in between. There’s also a fabulous animal companion if that tickles your fancy. :) 

Primrose NAILS action scenes - wow. The nail-biting fights came to life before my eyes. And the plotting is just as tense, with quick chapters that hold your attention and stakes that are frighteningly high.

The messaging was powerful and earnest. Everyone has potential. The possibilities are endless… you just have to start somewhere.

CW: blood, bullying, car accident, classism, confinement, death, grief, gun violence, injury, kidnapping, medical trauma, murder, panic attacks, police brutality, torture, violence, war, mass death

(I received a free copy of this book; this is my honest review.)