First off, if you're wondering if this is just some Maximum Ride knock-off, you are happily mistaken. While they may be about the same general thing--a group of kids with DNA infected with that of an animal, giving them supernatural abilities--that's where the parallel ends. Well, except for the kick-butt action and epic awesomeness, but that's, you know, beside the point. 
 Anyway. 
 It's been a while since I've read a book written so well. I absolutely loved the writing style. So descriptive without bogging down paragraphs with unnecessary adjectives. The author expertly blended science, mystery, and action to make great teen novel. Never was there a dull moment. The book was perfectly paced, every line a puzzle piece just waiting to be put into place at the end. And I literally could not predict what would happen next. You may roll your eyes, but if you knew me, you'd understand. When comes to plotlines, I'm an excellent guesser. But, like any special ability, it's a win-and-lose situation. Yes! I'm right. Crap. I totally saw that coming. Lame. But with this book, my uncanny sense was powerless. And you have no idea how happy that makes me. 
 So, now we're back to it being the new Maximum Ride. Yeah. It's all there. And with MR closing out with the next book, the floor's wide open to a new series just as amazing, just better written and, honestly, a step up from James Patterson's YA debut. 
 So, fellow kiddies, what have we learned today? Read Virals if you want an awesome butt-kicking adventure you really won't be able to put down? Good job. Gold stars and candies to you. :)