Dystopian author Thome visits Sangerville Library

By Beth Ranagan

    Several area residents visited the Sangerville Library on Sept. 2 when the library hosted Amanda Howard Thome for the signing of her first book “Worlds Apart — Ruination.”  This novel is for ages 12-18.  Attendees either purchased a copy of the book at the event or brought their previously purchased copy for the author’s signature.

    Thome, who spent her childhood in Sangerville and graduated from Foxcroft Academy, writes in the dystopian genre. Dystopian novels have been immensely popular with young adults for some time. Most recently “Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins and “Divergent” by Veronica Roth have captured their attention in big way. 
    The popularity of the dystopian genre began with adult fiction such as “1984” by George Orwell and “Clockwork Orange” by Anthony Burgess. The list for both adult and young adult books in this category is long and still growing. Often set in the future, dystopian novels examine controlled, repressive societies and the attempt to change the situation by  individual characters.
    Although Thome continues to work as a physical therapist in San Antonio, writing is her afternoon and evening passion. Her second book in the trilogy will be released in the spring of 2015, when she will return for another book signing at the library. “Worlds Apart — Ruination” is available at www.amazon.com.