MARVELLOUS. 
 This book was amazing. The story was original and captivating, the writing was good, the characters were well developed and the whole thing was absolutely glorious. It was so realistic, and engaging, and thrilling, and fascinating. I loved it. 
 The main character, Sam, was just perfect. He's the classic shy, modest hero who doesn't like to be in the spotlight, but takes the lead when he has to. 
 Astrid was a smart ass. But a sweet one. She's probably my favourite character, and the way she takes care of her autistic brother is just moving. 
 Caine was a nothing. His ego is another story. 
 Diana is the real mean kid, in my opinion; she is so misleading and selfish she could beat every single opponent in the FAYZ if she wanted to, but she likes playing in the dark of Caine's shadow better. 
 Drake is a true psycho. He's awesome. Another thumb up for this book. 
 Quotes (and comments): 
 "Sometimes impossible things happen," Sam said. 
 "No, they don't," Astrid argued. "The universe has laws. All the stuff we learn in science class. You know, like the laws of motion, or that nothing can go as fast as the speed of light. Or gravity. Impossible things don't happen. That's what impossible means." 
 Sam and Astrid 
 This sentence was repeated many times through the book. It's the simplest way to understand the kid's panic. 
 "It'll be all right, it'll be all right." 
 "I want to start by following the barrier and seeing if there just happens to be some big gate. Maybe you walk through that gate and everyone's there, you know? My mom, your parents. Anna and Emma." "Teachers," Astrid supplied. 
 "Don't ruin a happy picture," 
 Astrid and Sam 
 "We have a system for measuring the power," Caine said. "Diana came up with it, actually. She can read people if she holds their hands, she can tell how much they have. She describes it as being like a cell phone signal. One bar, two bars, three bars. You know what I am?" 
 "Crazy?" 
 Caine and Sam 
 "Yeah. The phrase 'ninth graders with machine guns' isn't exactly followed by 'have a nice day.'" 
 Sam 
 "No. I don't know that. I've prayed for it not to happen. I've asked Mary to intercede." 
 "Mary Terrafino?" 
 "No, duh." Astrid laughed. 
 "You are such a heathen. Mary. The Virgin Mary." 
 "Oh. Her." 
 LOL. 
 Astrid and Sam 
 This part was sooo sweet: 
 "If there's a fight, others will feel that hurt." 
 "You're not others." 
 "No?" 
 "No." 
 "Why?" 
 "Because I love you." 
 Astrid and Sam