Neal Shusterman's Thunderhead receives high praise for its gripping plot, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes. Readers appreciate the intricate world-building and moral dilemmas. Some critics find the pacing uneven and feel certain plot points lack resolution. Overall, it’s a strong sequel that sparks substantial reflection on society and governance.

Readers who enjoy dystopian novels with deep ethical questions will be captivated by Neal Shusterman's Thunderhead. Fans of Lois Lowry's The Giver or Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games will appreciate the richly imagined world and moral complexities. Ideal for young adults and adults alike who ponder the consequences of a seemingly utopian society.

Thunderhead by Neal Shusterman continues the story of Rowan Damisch and Citra Terranova one year after the events of Scythe, as they navigate the complexities and corruption within the scythedom while being guided by the benevolent artificial intelligence, the Thunderhead. They are joined by Greyson Tolliver, who becomes entangled in their struggle against the malevolent Scythe Goddard. Topics include death, violence, and large-scale disaster.

Suspenseful / Mysterious / Contemplative / Fantastical / Challenging

Neal Shusterman

Novel

Arc of a Scythe

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Thunderhead reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Thunderhead | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore Thunderhead and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Thunderhead Summary and Study Guide

Background

Thunderhead Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Nothing If Not Powerful”

Part 1, Chapters 1-7

Thunderhead Part 1, Chapters 1-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Harm’s Way”

Part 2, Chapters 8-14

Thunderhead Part 2, Chapters 8-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Enemies Within Enemies”

Part 3, Chapters 15-23

Thunderhead Part 3, Chapters 15-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Cry Havoc”

Part 4, Chapters 24-29

Thunderhead Part 4, Chapters 24-29 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Circumstances Beyond”

Part 5, Chapters 30-38

Thunderhead Part 5, Chapters 30-38 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “Endura and Nod”

Part 6, Chapters 39-47

Thunderhead Part 6, Chapters 39-47 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Thunderhead Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Thunderhead Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Thunderhead Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Thunderhead Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Thunderhead Essay Topics

Thunderhead

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Thunderhead?

Reading Age

Book Details