Review: Savannah Grey

Author: Cliff McNish
Pages: 234
Publisher: Orion Children's
Source: Library
Synopsis: 15 year old Savannah Grey has never felt she's belonged. She keeps her distance, so she's surprised by her attraction to the new boy Reece. Then strange things begin to happen: nature, it seems, is exerting an overpowering force on the world. Birds behave strangely; gusts of wind blow leaves so fiercely they seem to lure people away. And Savannah learns she has supernatural powers. Nature has a purpose for Savannah and her friends. For they are on course to meet the vile and evil Orcrassa, who wants to destroy the world by corrupting nature. And it wants Savannah Grey to help realise its savage intent.


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When I picked up Savannah Grey, I didn't know how I'd like the book. I knew there were monsters in the story and a certain creep factor but that's it. Was it a werewolf story? Vampire? Faeries? No, it's about monsters and it's an utterly unique story.

Savannah has this... thing in her throat. It's not something bad. Quite the opposite- it feels precious to her and she want to protect it. With that knowledge of her specialness we meet Savannah. Savannah is otherwise like any other teenager. Her friend Nina tries to set her up with guys but she's still waiting for the right one. She's been in foster care and has a hard time letting people in. But Savannah's loyal though and loves deeply. She's a compassionate person and I liked her. Her reactions made sense. She wasn't too heroic or too cowardly.

I have to say, the focus of the story was less about the characters than the actual plot itself which made for some interesting characters which weren't fully explained or explored. I don't think I know the cast as well as I want to but well enough so that I do care about them.

Now to the story... Wow, oh wow. Savannah Grey is told in predictably Savannah Grey's perspective but in some chapters/parts we get backstory about this very creepy villain, the Orcassa, a monstrous creature. I was so fascinated with the monsters. They were different and the backstory was so interesting and twisted but I couldn't help loving those parts and wondering how the plot would work. Then at the end when Mr. Cliff McNish revealed this hidden twist I was shocked. But also jumping up and down thinking that was an excellent plot device and very fitting of the villain. Needless to say, the story was the kind that pulls you in and at the end you feel content and happy.

I'm not sure at this moment if there's a sequel. The book ended in a way that a sequel isn't needed but if there was one, I'd be excited to read it.

All in all, if you're looking for a great story of love, with evil, friendship and nature, you should definitely consider Savannah Grey. It's a unique reading experience- in the best way possible. 4 stars,

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