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The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer

In a future where cloning is power, a boy discovers that his life was engineered for a purpose he never chose. Suspenseful and compassionate, this YA sci‑fi tale examines identity, free will, and what it means to be human. The House of the Scorpion is a gripping, award-winning journey of survival and selfhood.

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These picks are popular with readers who enjoyed this book. Complete a quick Shelf Talk to get recommendations made just for you! Warning: possible spoilers for The House of the Scorpion below.

In The House of the Scorpion, did you enjoy ...

... the ethical dilemmas of cloning and what it means to be human?

Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro

If you were drawn to The House of the Scorpion for its exploration of cloning, identity, and moral gray areas, you'll find Never Let Me Go equally compelling. Follow Kathy, Tommy, and Ruth as they slowly uncover haunting truths about their existence at Hailsham, a boarding school with a dark secret. The story gently but powerfully questions what makes a life valuable and the price of scientific progress.

... dystopian societies that critique technology and power?

Feed by M. T. Anderson

If the dystopian world and social critique of The House of the Scorpion gripped you, Feed offers a chilling vision of a future driven by consumerism and corporate control. As Titus and his friends experience life with brain-implanted internet feeds, they confront manipulation, loss of autonomy, and environmental decay, mirroring the oppressive systems and thought-provoking themes you enjoyed.

... a protagonist on the run with a clear mission and relentless pursuit?

The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness

If you loved following Matt's dangerous journey and the constant sense of pursuit in The House of the Scorpion, you'll be hooked by Todd's flight from his oppressive town in The Knife of Never Letting Go. With stakes rising at every turn and a desperate quest for survival, this story delivers the same relentless, goal-driven momentum.

... deeply immersive worldbuilding and unique cultures?

Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor

If the rich, imaginative setting of Opium and its unique blend of cultures in The House of the Scorpion captivated you, Akata Witch will dazzle with its lush depiction of Nigerian magic and society. As Sunny discovers her powers and enters a hidden world of Leopard People, you'll be immersed in complex customs, languages, and magical lore.

... a young protagonist's journey of personal growth and self-discovery?

The White Mountains by John Christopher

If you appreciated Matt's transformation from a sheltered clone to a courageous individual in The House of the Scorpion, you'll relate to Will's coming-of-age journey in The White Mountains. As Will leaves the safety of his village to fight for his freedom, he faces tough choices, inner doubts, and the challenge of forging his own path.

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