Life As We Knew It
by: Susan Beth Pfeffer
Plot:
- In this story we learn about Miranda Evens, a 16 year old teenager who lives a typical average life until an asteroid hits the Moon, bringing chaos to the planet. The book is a diary that Miranda writes in describing the challenges and struggles her family faces and how they overcome all odds and survive. The book is interesting and makes you want to keep reading. It is fascinating to learn about the tools and survival instincts described in the book
Setting:
- The setting begins in Howl, Pennsylvania the small town where Miranda lives. The book is written in four parts, each part is what happens during each season starting with spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The book has several settings of where the events take place, but Miranda's house is where most everything in the book occurs.
Main Characters
Miranda
Miranda is a 16-year old girl who feels like her world is turning upside down. Through each challenge she overcomes she becomes stronger, and learns how to help her family fight starvation and stay alive. As desperate as she is to have her old life back, she knows that the main aspects should be focused on survival and protecting those she love.
Matt
Matt is Miranda's older brother who helps the family by using his strength to chop firewood for winter. Matt and Miranda have a close relationship with each other, he talks to her when she feels confused about everything. When Matt hurts his leg and cannot walk Miranda supports him through tough times.
Mom
Mom is Miranda's mother who protects the family and uses clever tactics to keep them stay alive. Throughout the book Miranda and Mom get into fights, but she really does love Miranda and is proud of her for staying strong.