This review originally posted at More Than Just Magic More Than Just Magic 
 When I first heard about this book it terrified me. Not because I scare easily but because I used to work at Wal-Mart and the thought of getting stuck in there while the apocalypse/national disaster was happening outside seemed like the worst thing that could happen. But then I read Monument 14 and realized the opposite was true. After seeing how beneficial it was to be in Greenway (and learning some tips like sealing the air conditioner vents) if a crazy natural disaster happens my first thought is going to be "run to Wal-Mart" (no Greenways here, so I'll have to settle). 
 In addition to the survival tips I also enjoyed the wide variety of characters that popped up in Monument 14. I appreciated that they felt like real people. They don't become unlikely heroes, they're just trying to survive. At one point Dean says "you know, you'd think that being locked in a Greenway during the end of the world would bring out the best in everyone but - surprise! - Brayden was still an a-hole and a bully." People are people no matter what the circumstance and Laybourne captures this perfectly. 
 Finally I liked that Monument 14 often said really clever things in really subtle ways. My favourite: 
 "Hugging is not a sin!" Batiste yelled. 
 "It is too if the girl getting hugged doesn't want it!" Chloe countered. 
 Monument 14 isn't your standard adventure story, as the action is at a minimum. But it still an exciting page turner that you'll most likely consume in one sitting.