DISCORD
Five Survive
Holly Jackson
Goodreads Choice Awards
Barnes & Noble Bestsellers
49 Min Reading Time
Audio Version Available
About this book
Six friends. One RV. A road trip turned nightmare.
Red and her friends are stranded. Miles from civilization, deep in the desolate countryside with no cell service, their spring break getaway has stalled. But the breakdown was no accident. They're being watched. Hunted. A sniper lurks in the shadows, and one of them is the target.
As darkness descends and secrets ignite, the group is forced into a deadly game of cat and mouse. Eight hours until dawn. Six friends. Five will survive. The question is, who?
Summary of Key Ideas
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The Fragility of Trust
The fragility of trust is a central theme in "Five Survive." The story explores how easily trust can be broken, even among close friends. As the characters face life-threatening situations, secrets and hidden agendas emerge, forcing them to question their perceptions of each other. The novel highlights the devastating consequences of betrayal and how it can shatter relationships, leaving lasting emotional scars. Red, the protagonist, experiences this acutely as she uncovers the truths about those closest to her, leading her to question who she can truly rely on when faced with danger.
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Survival Under Pressure
Survival instincts are pushed to their limits in this high-stakes thriller. The characters are forced to make difficult choices under immense pressure, revealing their true nature. The will to survive drives them to confront their fears and overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The novel explores the psychological and emotional toll of fighting for survival, showing how it can both strengthen and break individuals. Each character grapples with their own moral compass as they navigate the increasingly dangerous situation, leading to conflicts and alliances that constantly shift.
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The Destructive Power of Secrets
The novel delves into the weight of secrets and their potential to unravel even the closest relationships. Each of the characters harbors hidden truths, which gradually surface as the stakes rise. These secrets create suspicion and tension within the group, contributing to the overall sense of unease and danger. The story examines how keeping secrets can ultimately lead to betrayal and destruction, and the importance of honesty and transparency in building strong, lasting bonds. As the characters' secrets are revealed, the reader gains a deeper understanding of their motivations and the complexities of their pasts.
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The Enduring Power of Friendship
The narrative emphasizes the importance of friendship and loyalty, even in the face of extreme adversity. Despite the secrets and betrayals that threaten to tear them apart, the characters must ultimately rely on each other to survive. The bonds of friendship are tested as they confront life-threatening situations, forcing them to make sacrifices and put their own safety at risk for the sake of their friends. The novel explores the enduring power of loyalty and how it can provide strength and resilience in the darkest of times. Red's relationships with her friends are constantly evolving as they navigate the dangerous circumstances.
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The Scars of Trauma
The book explores the theme of trauma and its lasting impact on individuals. The characters are forced to confront their past traumas as they navigate the present danger, and the experience of being trapped amplifies their fears and vulnerabilities. The novel examines how trauma can shape a person's identity and influence their behavior, particularly in high-stress situations. Red's past experiences play a significant role in her ability to cope with the crisis and make difficult decisions. The story highlights the importance of acknowledging and processing trauma in order to heal and move forward.
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Masterful Suspense and Thrills
"Five Survive" masterfully uses suspense to keep readers on edge. The limited setting of the RV, combined with the ticking clock scenario, creates a palpable sense of tension. The constant threat of the unknown assailant and the characters' uncertainty about who to trust contribute to the overall atmosphere of suspense. The narrative is filled with twists and turns, red herrings, and cliffhangers that keep the reader guessing until the very end. The author skillfully manipulates the reader's expectations, creating a thrilling and unpredictable reading experience.
Chapter Recap
About The Author
Holly Jackson
Main Quotes
"“I’m sorry I didn’t try harder to protect you. I’m sorry I never got to tell you. I’m sorry I never kissed you.”"
"Red faced down the darkness, breath trapped in her throat. Why wasn't she moving? Just move. And then the voice wasn't hers anymore, it was her mom's.”"
"We were all supposed to be looking after them. They're just kids. He said he'd let them go if we give it up. We have to!"
"“Red shares her sense that she is responsible for everything bad that happens when she says that the color red, representing danger and anger, follows her ...”"
"“I actually almost cried because the last thing she said was “I hate you” and then her mom died. Why must everything be so sad all the time? Explain ur self, ...”"
""I think we all get to decide what good and bad and right and wrong mean to us, not what we're told to accept. You did nothing wrong. Don't beat yourself up for ...""
"“Oh, yeah I was,” she said, panicking and quickly double-checking that she’d done up her fly before Arthur could see. “Just shouting at the axe- ...”"
"“ I stood there, trying to think of a comeback, when suddenly, I heard a whooshing sound, like the sound you get when you open a vacuum-sealed can of peanuts.”"
""It's like we're in a horror movie, and we're all waiting to see who's going to get picked off next.""
""The truth always comes out, one way or another.""
Who Should Read This Book
Young adults (ages 14-17)
Readers of YA mystery and thriller novels
Fans of Holly Jackson's previous work
Readers who enjoy fast-paced, suspenseful stories
Readers interested in stories about friendships and survival
Readers who like books with plot twists and suspense
Adults who enjoy reading YA thrillers
Book Summaries Like
Five Survive
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