Book 1: Verify + Book 2: Disclose by Joelle Charbonneau
Meri lives in a world of truth. Ever since Chicago entered a new era under the direction of City Pride Department, the streets have been clear of crime; information never needs to be checked and authority is at no time questioned. Before Meri’s mom passed away, she worked with the department under the City Arts Program, creating beautiful spaces to deter corruption. Meri is an inspiring artist herself and has been going through her mom’s artwork when she happens upon a trail of clues that leads her to questioning the purported “truth” of her world.
This duology gave off some major 1984 and Fahrenheit 451 vibes. I thoroughly enjoyed the first one so much that I had to get into the second right away, which got a lot darker, fast. Once Meri starts her journey for facts over fiction, it’s a quick ride to finding out how diabolical those in authority truly are. These books are all about the importance of freedom of thought and the dangers of censorship, with a little bit of romance mixed in.
Joelle Charbonneau is an author, voice teacher and stage performer. Her young adult books have appeared on the Indie Next List, the YALSA’s (Young Adult Library Services Association) Top Ten Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers and the New York Times Best Seller’s list. Joelle lives in the Chicagoland with her husband and son.
