Riot ACT - by Sarah Lariviere (Hardcover)

About the Book

"In an alternate 1991, the authoritarian US government keeps tabs on everybody and everything. It censors which books can be read, what music can be listened to, and which plays can be performed. When her best friend is killed by the authorities and her theater teacher disappears without a trace, Gigi decides to organize her fellow Champaign High School thespians to put on a production of Henry VI. But at what cost?"--

Book Synopsis

Punk rock meets Orwell's 1984 in this story of a group of theater kids who take on a political regime, perfect for readers who love books by A.S. King and Marie Lu.

In an alternate 1991, the authoritarian US government keeps tabs on everybody and everything. It censors which books can be read, what music can be listened to, and which plays can be performed.

When her best friend is killed by the authorities and her theater teacher disappears without a trace, Gigi decides to organize her fellow Champaign High School thespians to put on a production of Henry VI. But at what cost?

Review Quotes

"Tension zings throughout the twined plots, making for an unabashed profession of the importance of art in a tale both gritty and timely." --Publishers Weekly

"This fast-paced dystopian thriller will get a standing ovation from theater kids and punk rockers alike." --Kirkus Reviews

"This punk rock dystopian thriller is a must-read about freedom of expression and the power of art in the fight against tyranny." --Booklist

About the Author

Sarah Lariviere is the author of the duology Riot Act; The Bad Kid, a 2017 Edgar Award finalist; and Time Travel for Love and Profit, a 2022 YALSA Amazing Audiobook. Sarah grew up in Champaign, Illinois, graduated with a degree in theater from Oberlin College and has a master's degree in social work from Hunter College in New York City, where she specialized in casework with children and families. She lives in Los Angeles, California, with her family.