The Duplicate - Softcover

William Sleator (1945–2011) was the author of numerous science fiction books for children and young adults, including Interstellar Pig, House of Stairs, and Blackbriar.

Grade 6-9 David needs to be in two places at one time: a family party for his grandmother and a date with Angela. He finds what seems to be the perfect answer to this dilemmaa machine that has the power to duplicate organic material. Without considering the pos sible ramifications, he duplicates him self. From that moment, his life be comes a nightmare. Competition, particularly regarding Angela, is fiercelike sibling rivalry, only greatly intensified. Just when readers think that things can't possibly get worse, the duplicate duplicates himself, and then there are threeand each claims to be the original. Plus, each would like to solve his problems by getting rid of the others. Sleator has done it again, writ ing an intense thriller, with horror building gradually, in which science fic tion is blended skillfully with reality. Yet the gadget that sets up the story never becomes the storythe focus is always on David. At the moment of du plication, the copy is exact, with even identical memories. As time goes along, subtle differences emerge. It is to Sleator's credit that he manages to create three closely similar, yet dis tinct, personalities. In this way, he avoids potential confusion when all three are together. Sure to satisfy Slea tor's many fans and to win him some new ones. Susan M. Harding, Mes quite Public Library, Tex.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.