Tested

Gr 5 Up–In this dystopian middle grade science fiction novel Mikayla, 14, is determined to pass her exams and be accepted into the Genetic Institute’s (GenIn) Elite Scholars Prep Program, until she discovers a shocking secret that jeopardizes her dream. In this cruel and unjust society, people’s lives are determined by their genetic DNA score: 95s are Super Elites, but anyone with a 90 or below is labeled Defective and even lower—Expendable. Mikayla is shocked when she tests her DNA and her score is 88 when she thought she was a 94. Teacher’s assistant Garith, Mikayla’s best friend until they had a falling out three years ago, hacks into the official DNA database. It reveals Mikayla’s DNA is registered to a girl named Grace, a Defective. Mikayla’s determined to find out the truth and prove that genetics don’t determine a person’s worth. The plot’s a bit derivative of other books about unequal social classes, but Mikayla, Garith, Grace and her brother Bryce are sympathetic and relatable. Mikayla’s feelings of betrayal by those she loves will resonate with readers, as will her growing anger over the inequality in her society that she’s ignored until now. Most characters cue as white, but Garith has light brown skin; gender diversity is represented by a same-sex couple.