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Critics' Opinion:
Readers' Opinion:
First Published:
May 2003, 288 pages
Paperback:
May 2004, 270 pages
Part mystery, part adventure story, this novel provides science fiction for those who do not like science fiction. Ages 9+
The city of Ember was built as a last refuge for the human race. Two hundred years later, the great lamps that light the city are beginning to flicker. When Lina finds part of an ancient message, she's sure it holds a secret that will save the city. She and her friend Doon must decipher the message before the lights go out on Ember forever! This stunning debut novel offers refreshingly clear writing and fascinating, original characters.
The Instructions
When the city of Ember was just built and not yet inhabited, the Chief
Builder and the Assistant Builder, both of them weary, sat down to speak
of the future.
"They must not leave the city for at least two hundred years," said the
Chief Builder. "Or perhaps two hundred and twenty."
"Is that long enough?" asked his Assistant.
"It should be. We can't know for sure."
"And when the time comes," said the Assistant, "how will they know what
to do?"
"We'll provide them with instructions, of course," the Chief Builder
replied.
"But who will keep the instructions? Who can we trust to keep them safe
and secret all that time?"
"The mayor of the city will keep the ...
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