Gregor 2. La profezia del flagello

Suzanne Collins

  • First published 2004
  • 285 pages
  • Italian
Gregor swore he would never return to the Underland, the mysterious subterranean world beneath New York City, after his first perilous adventure. Yet, a new prophecy emerges, drawing him back into its depths. This time, the Underlanders kidnap his younger sister, Boots, to compel his return, believing Gregor is the key to fulfilling "The Prophecy of Bane."

Eleven-year-old Gregor must now embark on a dangerous quest to confront an ominous white rat known as the Bane, believed to be a destructive force destined to bring war to the Underland. Reunited with his loyal bat, Ares, and the rebellious princess Luxa, Gregor descends into treacherous waterways and uncharted caverns, facing formidable creatures and grappling with the weight of a prophecy that demands he destroy a creature he may not fully understand. His choices will determine the fate of the Underland and challenge his own sense of right and wrong, as he faces the possibility of profound loss and uncovers the true nature of his enemy.
4.22
54K ratings across the web
8 in 10 readers loved it
Reviewers widely praise this second installment for its gripping adventure and enhanced world-building. Many found the story even more engaging than the first, citing higher stakes, a darker tone, and more sophisticated prose. The author's ability to craft a dazzling underground world with well-developed, memorable creatures like bats, rats, and glow-worms is frequently highlighted. Readers appreciated the complex and multidimensional characters, particularly the protagonist's growth and his evolving dynamic with his bondmate. His role as a caring older brother, his aversion to violence, and his commitment to challenging prejudice are consistently admired. The book is lauded for its masterfully done action, twists, and cliffhangers that compel readers to continue. It also receives commendation for its clear, accessible language, making it an enjoyable read.

While largely positive, some reviewers noted that the book might not be as purely "entertaining" as the first, leaning into more serious themes. A few found the initial pages of the protagonist to be somewhat whiny or difficult to connect with, though this sentiment generally dissipated quickly. The book's darker, more brutal aspects, including instances of violence, loss, and death, were mentioned as potentially unsuitable for very young or sensitive readers, despite the author's careful handling of these intense moments. There was also a minor point about the potential for the "new prophecy in every book" structure to become repetitive, though this was more a speculation for future installments. One reviewer simply stated a dislike for the characters without further elaboration.

Overall, "Gregor and the Prophecy of Bane" is considered a strong sequel that deepens the series' emotional impact and thematic complexity. It is highly recommended for middle-grade readers, young adults, and even older readers who appreciate a well-crafted adventure with significant depth. Fans of the author's other works, particularly those who enjoy stories that blend fantasy with serious themes of war, morality, and social prejudice, will find this book particularly rewarding. It offers a mesmerizing journey that skillfully combines moments of light and darkness, love and loss, and humor with anguish, making it a compelling read for anyone seeking a fast-paced, character-driven narrative that offers important lessons without being overtly didactic.

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This edition
Mondadori, 2014
ISBN
9788804640752
ISBN-10
8804640758
Language
Italian
Original edition Originally published in 2004 · English · Scholastic Press

Other editions (71)