logo

54 pages 1 hour read

Rick Yancey

The 5th Wave

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2013

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey, Cassie Sullivan survives alone after a devastating alien invasion that wipes out much of humanity through consecutive waves of destruction, including an electromagnetic pulse, natural disasters, and a deadly pandemic. She navigates a chaotic world, seeking to rescue her brother, Sammy, while struggling to trust others. Sensitive topics in the book include death, violence, and the impact of a pandemic.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Rick Yancey's The 5th Wave is praised for its fast-paced, gripping narrative and dynamic character development. Critics appreciate its blend of action, science fiction, and emotional depth. However, some find certain plot twists predictable and the romantic elements underwhelming. Overall, it's a compelling read for YA dystopian enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The 5th Wave?

Fans of dystopian adventures and alien invasions will be captivated by The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey. Readers who enjoyed the high-stakes survival and intense action of Suzanne Collins's The Hunger Games and Veronica Roth's Divergent will find a similarly gripping and immersive experience in this novel.

RecommendedReading Age

12-18years

Lexile Level

HL690L