Book Review-The Lens and the Looker–Lory S. Kaufman

The Lens and the Looker – Lory S. Kaufman

I never thought I would be intrigued enough by a YA novel to quickly grab up the 2nd in the History Camp series. AND I have already started the 3rd and final in this series. Lory S. Kaufman has written such a series!! I will be reviewing each of them separately—this is my review of #1, The Lens and the Looker and I promise you the ending will leave you running to get the next one!! And I can safely recommend this for not only YA’s but Adults as well!!

This is the story about 3 teenagers who are—well—what can I say, teenagers. They question, they are stubborn and they live in the 24th century. They all refuse to conform to society-they are considered Hard Cases. Well, in the 24th century there is what is called “History Camps”. There is also time travel! They are sent to the 14th century History Camp and cause so much trouble (with the aide of Pan, a holographic genie) that suddenly they are sent to the real 14th century!! That is where the real fun begins—but enough of me telling you—

From the back of the book:

It’s the 24th century and humans, with the help of artificial intelligences (A.I.s), have finally created the perfect post-dystopian society. To make equally perfect citizens for this world, the elders have created History Camps, full-sized recreations of cities from Earth’s distant pasts. Here teens live the way their ancestors did, doing the same dirty jobs and experiencing the same degradations. History Camps teach youths not to repeat the mistakes that almost caused the planet to doe. But not everything goes to plan.

In this first of a trilogy, we meet three spoiled teens in the year 2347. Hansum, almost 17, is good looking and athletic. Shamira, 15, is sassy, independent and an artistic genius. Lincoln, 14, is the smart-aleck. But you don’t have to scratch too far beneath the surface to find his insecurities.

These three “hard cases” refuse the valuable lessons History Camps teach. But when they are kidnapped and taken back in time to 1347 Verona, Italy, they only have two choices: adapt to the harsh medieval ways or die. The dangers are many, their enemies are powerful, and safety is a long way away. It’s hardly the ideal environment to fall in love—but for Hansum, that’s exactly what happens. In an attempt to survive, the trio risks introducing technology from the future. It could save them—or it could change history.

About the Author:

“I write Post-Dystopian fiction. After society’s collapse, which is imagined in so many great dystopian stories, humans will either fade into history, with the dinosaurs, or, if it learns the right lessons, society will go on to construct a civilization to last tens of thousands of years. History Camp stories are the exciting adventures of young people doing the latter.” -Lory Kaufman
On the artistic side of Lory’s career, he’s written, acted and directed children’s theatre and musical theatre. He enjoys art, especially sculpture. He loves science fiction and historical fiction and he has been deeply involved in the green movement all across North America. All this shows through when you read his work. Lory has three grown children and works and lives in Kingston, Canada.
To find out more about Lory visit www.lorykaufman.com

This book can be purchased at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and where ever fine books are sold.

I was not paid cash for this post. I did receive a paperback copy for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.