Bloom

Bloom is the first of three books in Kenneth Oppel’s Overthrow series. It is followed by Hatch, published September 15, 2020, and Thrive, published May 4, 2021. Bloom establishes the plot, characters, and tone for this science fiction trilogy, which is geared toward readers aged 10-12. Amid fear and chaos caused by an alien invasion, with new species of deadly plants taking over Earth, protagonists Anaya, Petra, and Seth must still face the chaos and fear of being teenagers. This first part of their story focuses on ideas of Alienation From One Group as Belonging to Another, Friendship and Loyalty as a Source of Strength, and Global Crisis, Heroism, and Togetherness.

Hatch, the second book in the series, escalates the conflict facing Earth and its three teen protagonists by introducing new cryptogenic invaders. Just as Anaya, Petra, and Seth are celebrating their win over the invading plants, another rain brings eggs that hatch into massive alien bugs. They spread disease, eat through building foundations, and generally wreak havoc and destruction. The three teen heroes are being held in a government lab with others like them. As their physical transformations continue, they face fear and discrimination from others, forcing them to wonder exactly what it means to be human. Hatch develops themes about courage in the midst of uncertainty and overcoming fear through intuition and trust.

The series conclusion, Thrive, features the final alien invasion of Earth. Through a telepathic connection to the cryptogens, Anaya learns of a rebel faction that wants to help humans and hybrids. Unfortunately, there’s discord among her own group of friends as well. Anaya, Petra, and Seth have different ideas about what they should do and who’s really on their side. Like in Bloom and Hatch, they overcome fear and selfishness to become the heroes Earth desperately needs.

The Overthrow series explores how society responds to global crisis, including at government, community, and individual levels. It prompts readers to consider what it means to be human and what role DNA plays in defining humanity. It also examines how people judge others based on appearances and make assumptions about their motives and desires. The series elicits contemplation of the benefits and risks of technology and about prioritizing “the greater good” when it comes to saving or sacrificing human lives.