Peeps
Ashfall
Ashes
The Fault in Our Stars
See All Join the STEM Teen Read
Throughout the year, teens read science fiction books, participate in fun, interactive online programs, and then meet up virtually or live at Northern Illinois University for free discussions and Q&A sessions with experts who explain the science behind the fiction.
While reading each book, teens can participate in virtual chats, find cool science articles and videos, connect with other teen science fiction fans, and share questions and fan fiction stories with other readers and experts.
All STEM Teen Read programs and events are free and you or your school or library group can join to access information and resources on any book at any time.
Click Join to log in and get started exploring the science behind the fiction.
Explore the World of John Green's The Fault in Our Stars
Battling cancer at the age of 16 is not easy, but Hazel copes in unusual ways like indulging her wild sense of humor. She really does not look forward to her weekly Cancer Support Group meetings with other young patients, not until Augustus Waters comes along. Being alive and being in love are most important to Hazel and Gus. They have to deal with cancer, doctors, and hovering parents, but they care far more about each other.
In the novel, Hazel says, “cancer books suck.” The Fault in Our Stars isn’t a cancer book. It is a book about unusual teenagers whose daily challenges and adventures are more engaging and funnier than vampires, werewolves, vicious robots, or flying dragons.
Explore the World of Ilsa J. Bick's Ashes
All October, the STEM Teen Read is exploring the world of Ashes.
An electromagnetic pulse flashes across the sky, destroying every electronic device, wiping out every computerized system, and killing billions. Alex hiked into the woods to say good-bye to her dead parents and personal demons. Now desperate to find out what happened after the pulse, Alex meets up with Tom—a young soldier—and Ellie, a girl whose grandfather was killed by the EMP. For this improvised family and the others who are spared, it’s now a question of who can be trusted and who is no longer human.
Explore the World of Scott Westerfeld’s Peeps
All July, the STEM Teen Read is exploring the world of Scott Westerfeld’s Peeps.
In Peeps, vampirism is caused by a blood parasite. When the main character, 19-year-old Cal, is infected with the parasite, he must track down everyone he spread the virus to and find the mysterious woman who infected him.
Along the way, Cal has to battle blood-thirsty savages, explore New York’s rat-infested sewers, and deal with the raging parasite inside him. Cal gets help from a young journalism student, but will she become his next girlfriend or his next victim?
This fun, fast-paced detective story puts a new spin on the vampire legend and explores scientific concepts of real-live parasites and epidemiology.
Events and Announcements
Learn about other STEM Outreach initiatives at niu.edu/stem.
