Hum

This book is quite anxiety inducing and a real page turner. It keeps the reader on their toes for most of the time, but the writing feels somewhat artificial, lacking the authenticity of real conversations among people. Apart from May, the other characters feel one dimensional, Jem seems solely preoccupied with money worries, while the kids come across as creepier and more annoying versions of typical tweens. The naming of the gadgets also feels out of place and kind of unfitting -Bunnies and Hum? The ending feels rather abrupt considering the high-stakes plot buildup.
overall, I appreciated the critique of the hyperconsumerist push of the media industries and the rampant spread of misinformation, as well as the commentary on the attention economy. These are important topics that deserve more attention.
P.S. The blurb does an excellent job of attracting readers, I must say.

Overall, I would rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars. Thanks to Simon Element and NetGalley for providing me with the ARC.