This was a satisfying read in so many ways.

First, there was the idea, at last taken seriously, that a person can think of something that dozens of others would not. That's the point of being an outlier. The fact that that outlier is still a kid does not negate his being correct, even if most adults don't get that.

Second, there was the fact that even genius needs experience. Especially young geniuses in real world danger. Much credit to the author for showing us how to get that across without lecturing. We finally see a genius protagonist who also understands what he does not understand, and plans and corrects for it.

Third is reminding us that each person has a background and talents we may know nothing about, regardless of what that person looks like at the moment.

Fourth, and possibly most important of all, is the question of what we allow to happen in our name, for our benefit, and our collective responsibility to be informed and involved in the decision making process of our society.

Would you want to live in a world knowing that your world depends on the suffering and death of others? Would you risk your own comfort, safety, and status quo to protect children?

And then, finally, whether you believe in talk radio, books, science, or the Akashik temple, how do you vet and verify what you see, hear, and believe? From the objective facts of our surroundings to what is and may or may not be possible. Our protagonist is told that escape is not possible, yet he figures out a way to change things.

Thank you, Stephen King, for that reminder:

So can we.