This searching YA novel from Smith (author of The Vardo) embraces both the everyday and the speculative, as it imagines a world where some, the switcherbornes, are born with the ability to switch bodies with someone else—but this power rouses prejudice, rejection, and mandated medication. Calliope Littleton is publicly known as a switcherborne, but as far as she knows she’s the only one who is immune to Lazator, the drug that suppresses the power to switch bodies. No one has a clue that, due to her on-the-downlow ability, Calliope is the reason her school’s star cross-country runner and ex-best friend Jamie Mulligan was in a car accident and can no longer walk. Soon, facing intense guilt, Calliope allows Jamie to use her body to run again—taking a huge risk that could ultimately destroy them both.Body of Origin is an entertaining, thought-provoking read with a touch of romance and a commitment to investigating how the fantasy of switching bodies would work out in real life, especially when thrown into the life of a high school student who forges her own path—school dances, she notes, aren’t her thing. Smith captures the laughter and camaraderie of teen friends, but it’s not all fun and games. The darker elements, though, prove resonant and relatable, from the tragedy that takes away Jamie’s ability to run, a passionate fight for human rights, the “big brother” political aspects, and the prejudice that switcherbornes face. Calliope was born with a great gift—so why does she feel so terrible being who she was meant to be?
Smith proves thoughtful about the wealth of issues (consent, human rights, sexuality) that come with switching, as the story expands beyond Calliope’s friends to encompass events that will shock the world. Through it all, though, this is a novel about being true to yourself, standing up for what you believe in, and understanding that, while everyone is different, we’re all just human.
Takeaway: Smart, speculative slice-of-life about a powered teen staying true to herself.
Comparable Titles: Mary E. Pearson’s The Adoration of Jenna Fox, Joma West’s Twice Lived.
Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
In Smith’s YA speculative novel, a teenage girl recognizes the strength of her socially proscribed superpowers.When 16-year-old Cal Littleton embarks on a trip to the salon to touch up her pink roots, her life is changed forever. A “switcherborne,” Cal possesses a recessive gene that allows her to transport her consciousness into other people’s bodies. When a bus driver attends to his phone and neglects to see a woman and her baby crossing the street, Cal, hoping to avert tragedy, suddenly switches into the bus driver’s body, swerving to the left and causing an accident that renders her childhood best friend, cross-country running star Jamie Mulligan, paralyzed. To assuage her guilt, Cal switches with Jamie, granting him the ability to run while controlling her body, knowing the possible consequences to herself and those around her: switcherborne are scorned in society and such activities are forbidden. As Cal spends more time in Jamie’s body, she develops empathy for him and learns the extent of her powers. Best of all, she discovers that she can heal others. This remarkable novel contrasts fantastic elements with strong realistic components in a narrative that will feel engaging, authentic, and genuine to YA readers. Exercising restraint when it comes to the fantasy elements, this work reads like a well rendered, realistic novel (“I’d known it was a bad sign when Mr. Mulligan built that ramp. You don’t build a ramp if the doctors think your kid is going to walk again in a couple of weeks”). Expertly constructing a world with a political climate not unlike today’s, Smith explores what happens to people when hatred prevails. In addition, the author crafts well-rounded and diverse characters, allowing many readers the opportunity to see themselves reflected somewhere in the cast. While there are sequences hampered by excessive details about switching, and perhaps too many healing scenarios, the novel also compellingly depicts realistic teenage characters navigating real-world problems. -- "Kirkus Reviews"
"Body of Origin" by Kimberly J. Smith is a mesmerizing tour de force that transcends genres and captivates readers with its thought-provoking narrative, intricate world-building, and deeply relatable characters. This novel seamlessly blends elements of speculative fiction, social commentary, and romance into a compelling and unforgettable story.At its core, "Body of Origin" delves into the complex life of sixteen-year-old Calliope Littleton, a switcherborne with a secret that could shatter her world. Smith masterfully weaves a tale of hidden identities and moral dilemmas, making readers question the boundaries of right and wrong, and the price one is willing to pay for acceptance and love.The concept of switcherborne, individuals who possess the extraordinary ability to step into another person's body, is both intriguing and thought-provoking. Smith crafts a society where prejudice against switcherborne individuals mirrors real-world discrimination, effectively using this fantastical element to shed light on contemporary issues of human rights and social justice. In a world where the outspoken leader of the anti-switcherborne movement is running for president, the tension and stakes are palpable, mirroring today's political climate and adding a layer of urgency to the narrative.Calliope's character is a standout achievement, a young woman torn between her innate desire to help others and the fear of the consequences of her actions. Her emotional journey is compelling, as she grapples with guilt, love, and the weight of her secret. Readers will find themselves deeply invested in her story, rooting for her as she navigates the treacherous waters of deception and self-discovery.Jamie Mulligan, the star cross-country athlete whose life is forever altered by Calliope's actions, is equally well-drawn. His character adds depth to the narrative, as he confronts the challenges of his newfound disability and grapples with the complex relationship he shares with Calliope. Their interactions are filled with tension, tenderness, and an undeniable chemistry that adds a touch of romance to the story.Kimberly J. Smith's prose is nothing short of brilliant, effortlessly transporting readers into a world where the extraordinary coexists with the everyday. The pacing is impeccable, with each chapter propelling the story forward, building tension and suspense while allowing readers to connect with the characters on a profound level."Body of Origin" is a powerful testament to the enduring human spirit, the fight for equality, and the sacrifices one makes for love and acceptance. It invites readers to question societal norms, challenge prejudice, and consider the consequences of their own choices. This genre-bending masterpiece is a must-read for anyone who craves a thought-provoking, emotionally resonant, and utterly enthralling story. Kimberly J. Smith has delivered a work of art that will leave a lasting impact on readers, making "Body of Origin" a true gem in contemporary literature.
Sixteen year old Cal is content to live her life in the shadows, playing her violin in the school orchestra and keeping up with her daily mandated dosing of Lazator. Staying out of the limelight is especially important as Cal seems to be immune to the government medication, permitting her to use her innate switcherbone skills to trade places with another person nearly anytime. But when she finds herself in the seat of a bus driver to prevent him from careening into a mother and her baby, she accidentally causes the paralysis of a childhood friend and her secret existence is put in jeopardy. Overwhelmed by guilt, Cal journeys to Jamie's house to help raise his spirits; however, when her feelings lead her to provide Jamie with a dangerous offer, their lives become connected in a terrifying new way. This young adult novel is anchored in magic realism, introducing the concept of switcherbone humans to the canon of human history. Unnerving similarities to modern political struggles are embedded in the plot, reinforcing the intense dichotomy between the "norms" and their more unique counterparts. Detailed descriptions and frequent dialogue work well together to immerse readers in the story, and since Cal is narrating in the first person, her plethora of feelings are palpable, as well. Though the initial world building takes some time, high quality writing and intentional clues within the narrative enhance the stakes within the novel and keep readers turning the pages. Though the premise of this novel is based in fiction, the ideas it generates are very relevant to real life. Moral dilemmas are frequently presented throughout the novel, prompting readers to reflect on Cal's decisions and what they might have done if they were in her place. The answers are rarely overt, and there is always some kind of negative repercussion no matter which way Cal leans. Alongside the guilt and remorse Cal feels are budding love stories that give her a reason to experience joy and independence, as well. And as Cal grapples with her many emotions, she must determine which path is best to walk to achieve the future she desires for herself and others like her. This is a thought-provoking and well-designed novel that will appeal to young adult readers and up.-- Mary Lanni, Librarian and Book Reviewer
