A virus spreads, granting survivors eternal contentment but threatening societal norms and power structures. As characters navigate the consequences, moral dilemmas arise, challenging perceptions of happiness, ambition, and human nature in a thought-provoking dystopian tale.

Reader Review Summary

Neal Shusterman has delivered another thought-provoking, genre-defining work with "All Better Now." This young adult dystopian novel tackles profound philosophical questions with Shusterman's trademark creativity and inventiveness.

The novel's premise alone is a stroke of genius - a pandemic virus that doesn't kill its victims, but instead renders them blissfully content and devoid of negative emotions like stress, greed, and depression. On the surface, this seems utopian, but Shusterman deftly explores the darker implications and unintended consequences. Those in power who profit from people's insecurities and dissatisfactions view this mass contentment as an existential threat and race to find a "cure." Meanwhile, a growing movement aims to spread the virus for humanity's collective wellbeing, regardless of the ramifications.

With prose that delightfully blends intellectualism and accessibility, Shusterman constructs a disturbingly plausible world that serves as a fascinating exploration of human nature. By centering on diverse, multidimensional characters with clashing perspectives and motivations, he immerses readers in an ethically murky situation with no clear right or wrong answer. We feel for all sides' reasonings, which makes the narrative utterly engrossing on a moral and emotional level.

The character work is simply superb. While the teenage protagonists come from vastly different backgrounds - Mariel a homeless teen, Ron the son of a billionaire, and Margot a ruthlessly ambitious inheritor of a fortune - their arcs intertwine elegantly. We become invested in their struggles and personal stakes in the chaos. Particular standouts are Dame Glynis, whose transformation from misanthrope to a voice for peace adds beautiful pathos, and Margot as a deliciously complex, cunning villain unafraid to get her hands dirty for her ambitions.

On a craft level, Shusterman's skilled hand shines through crisp plotting, seamless perspective transitions, and masterful control of pacing and tension. Despite its philosophical density, the book proves an immensely propulsive page-turner full of constantly evolving mysteries and surprises. Shusterman's darkly satirical sense of humor provides welcome breaths of levity amidst the high stakes.

Ultimately, "All Better Now" stands as a crowning achievement - an engrossing character drama, thrilling speculative adventure, and deeply resonant study of human morality rolled into one. Shusterman cements his status as not just a leading YA voice, but an important author for readers of all ages. This novel will spark intense debate and self-reflection long after that final, haunting page. For injecting so much humanity into the inhuman, "All Better Now" deserves the highest praises.