The Futile

In a cold, post-apocalyptic world, The Futile's colorful masks serve as a beacon of hope amidst oppression. This diverse band embarks on a gritty tour, spreading their message of revolution against J. R. Rankin, an authoritarian leader who mirrors real people in power today. The novel's modern and relatable storyline captivates readers, drawing them into a bleak yet vibrant world.As readers follow The Futile's punk-rock journey, they witness the band members face perilous obstacles, injecting the story with anxiety, suspense, and excitement. Each character is uniquely developed, offering depth and emotional connection. Dane Johns's, the author, exploration of political themes feels timely, shedding light on the dangers of unchecked authority and the significance of challenging oppressive systems. With its multiple perspectives and captivating storytelling, 'The Futile' delivers an impactful and thought-provoking reading experience.While listed in the young adult section, I would also recommend this book to adult readers who love alternative music, political drama, sociology, and rooting for the underdogs.

Okay, this book is fantastic. It has a lot of heart and a lot of fun even though it takes place in a dystopian alternate future. It features a diverse group of teenagers in a punk band who talk about everything: music, love, faith, and the best way to fight for what is right, they also like to make a lot of jokes. It takes the dream that every punk kid has had about changing the world with their music and fighting the powers that be, and makes it a literal battle between good and evil: guitars versus the repressive theocracy that the Futile live under. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It is fun, deals with complex themes on faith and friendship, and is a fully realized world where music is the key to breaking the chains of oppression.

If you are a lover of music, friendship, beat up old vans, and toppling oppressive systems…this is a novel for you!This story is really about fighting for what you believe in while fighting your own demons. It has action, witty dialogue, thought provoking conflict, and hilarious footnotes that invite you into the world and the inside jokes of the characters.Jump on this bandwagon so you can tell your friends “I read it before it was cool” because this book and this author are going places.

Loved this book. The characters, the adventure, and sticking it to the man of it all will make anyone want to pick up a guitar, learn some power chords, and start touring the country. So much of what it is like to be in a band with the stakes of “making it” so much higher. Such a good read. Highly recommend!

This is the Adventure everyone in a band daydreams about having, while traveling the thousands of miles away from their hometowns.Smart, Captivating & exciting.Can’t wait for more from the author.