 |  |
|---|
The Reason for The Ride
Looking into Maximum Ride by James Patterson
Author's write novels for a reason. Here we will dive into why this series was written, who it targets, and why it is important.
Image retrieved from
Why this novel?
Revisiting previously read stories can be an incredible adventure. Many times we learn more after reading a second or even third time than we did the first!
Taking a deeper look into a series can change our perspective or enhance it!
A Quick Summary
Humans flying without aid from outside sources seems like an impossible thing to most in the Maximum Ride Universe, but not for “the flock”, who is a group of human-avian hybrids that take care of one another like family.
The flock, created by scientists, escape the lab and attempt to survive on their own. They are constantly avoiding erasers- human-wolf hybrids- which are designed to harm and track the flock.
BRINGING AWARENESS
The Maximum Ride novels aim to relate to young readers. This is done by Patterson writing in a diary-like narrative and directly speaking to the reader.
Patterson's novels draw attention to issues in society in a different perspective. By relating to his readers, he is able to better set the stage and make a connection.
The novels bring attention to the ethics of human-animal hybrids. There are cognizant human-avian hybrids which are contrasted with feral human-wolf hybrids. Patterson makes a commentary on researchers conducting experiments without baring consequences in mind.
​
Patterson states "I'm here to save lives" (29). Patterson also brings awareness to how young adolescents feel. He frequently uses the words "free" and "freedom" and relates this with the ability to fly.
Why is this important?
Have you ever found yourself reading a novel and had a hard time following it?
​
Connecting to readers is vitally important when writing a novel. Making sure readers can clearly understand what is happening and helping readers relate is what makes a novel have an impact.
​
Without this connection readers may be left confused and may not want to read the novel or dive deeper.
Patterson bridges the gap between confusion and understanding by doing the following:
-
Short, easy to read sentences
-
Common, relaxed language
-
Directly speaking to the reader
-
Shortening paragraphs and chapters
Patterson also draws the reader in by:
-
Creating the idea of a "secret"
-
Using the word "you"
-
Showing young adults who have the ability to fly - freedom​
​
One of the obvious audiences for Patterson's Maximum Ride series is adolescents.
WHY?
The plain language and relatable content make the reader feel a sense of connection.
​
The unintended audience is adults.
While the audience is smaller for adults, for those who do read or indulge in the series, they may find they understand the younger audiences better.
Patterson connects all audiences through this series. Connecting to adolescents and allowing adults to have a better understanding of young adults makes this series extremely effective.
The Intended and Unintended Audience
Explore how others see the Maximum Ride universe here. As a challenge, see the different interpretations of the series that this link takes you to! Skim through and make a pros and cons of what these versions may add or take away form the original.
Visit the connections page located at the top to connect with other readers and what they have to say about this topic!
The Maximum Ride Universe Brought to Life
Is this how you imagined the series? Add what you expected or imagined differently in the "connecting" page!