KIMBERLY J.
SMITH
PRAISE FOR BODY OF ORIGIN
"This remarkable novel contrasts fantastic elements with strong realistic components in a narrative that will feel engaging, authentic, and genuine to YA readers ... 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 ... A timely and engrossing contribution to YA literature."
— "Kirkus Reviews"
"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."
— EDITOR'S PICK: Publishers Weekly Booklife Reviews
"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."
"Body of Origin is an often riveting fantasy/sci-fi YA thriller centered on the unique capabilities of 16-year-old girl living in a complex alternate world. There's a steady give-and-take of rising and falling action as well as exposition, which makes the plights of the characters clear and relatable. The world-building is top-notch, introducing novel concepts while also drawing from true-to-life circumstances. The author's writing style effectively captures the internal voice of a teenager who, while mature and facing impossible issues, is still in some ways innocent and naive enough to retain a fresh and youthful perspective.
Because the story covers so many topics ... it would be easy to assume that it would wind up a collection of cliches or tired tropes. This story, however, brings them all together in unique ways that speak not only to the author's talent, but to her grasp of the complexities of each individual issue as well as how they intersect. Though they are not yet adults, the protagonists show a tremendous amount of depth and maturity while staying relatable to the intended teen audience. Young adults, lovers of fantasy and sci-fi, and bibliophiles who enjoy political and/or social thrillers will find much to love."
— Critic's report from BOOKLIFE PRIZE
"BODY OF ORIGIN, the new YA thriller from author Kimberly Smith, is an original, creative, exceptionally well-written page turner you'll have a hard time putting down. The story weaves fascinating elements of fantasy with present day culture in a way that's both fiercely entertaining and extremely thought provoking. There is a rich cast of characters you'll fall in love with and before the end, you'll find yourself rooting hard for more than a few of them. While BODY OF ORIGIN is billed as YA, adults who love great, well-written stories shouldn't sleep on this fantastic book. Bravo to Kimberly Smith on another fantastic novel! I can't wait to see what they do with the movie."
— Reader Review
"Normally, I’m not drawn to fantasy, but kudos to Kimberly J. Smith, whose MC of “Body of Origin,” is a typical teenager, having to deal with a not-so-typical “difference.” She captured my heart from the very first page. The evolution of how she handles her “difference” makes this a read that is funny, romantic, suspenseful and full of compassion. I loved it! 5 stars PLUS."
— Reader Review
"I could not put this book down. It was current, sweet at times, mysterious, difficult circumstances which r comparable for today, clever, fascinating, subtle when needed. It is a Young Adult book, but I’m way past YA, and I could relate to it. Ms. Smith is a talented storyteller and writer. Do yourself a favor. Order Body of Origin. Five stars and five Thumbs Up👍👍👍👍👍"
— Reader Review
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