Scythe by Neal Shusterman
Recommended read by Ms. Toner
A story set in a world where death, disease and pain have been eradicated but to keep the population in control Sythes are appointed to ‘glean’ citizens. Gleanings are a statistical rarity so most people are shocked and horrified if they are randomly selected. Two teenagers are selected to become apprentices to Sythe Faraday and are pitted against each other as only one can ultimately be chosen to take up this prestigious role. They learn the arts of efficient and effective killcraft as well as how to live outside their society. But during their year the pair discover power struggles within Sythdom which have disasterous consequences. A gripping read which had me captivated to the very end.