Masterminds by Gordon Korman

Serenity, New Mexico, seems to be the best town in the United States. There isn't any crime, poverty, or secrets. But Serenity's clean streak is smeared when Randy Hardaway accidentally takes his best friend, Eli Frieden, outside the city limits. Eli almost dies and Randy is immediately shipped out of town. But Randy leaves Eli a secret note stating that Eli and several other kids are "special" and that Serenity isn't what it appears. Eli and four of his classmates--Tori, Hector, Malik, and Amber--start seeing behind Serenity's spotless façade. The classmates plan a reconnaissance mission to the local plastic's works, the only source of employment in town. The kids discover it is an observation station that strategically monitors and documents Eli, Tori, Hector, Malik, and Amber's every move.

Korman's beginning novel to his Masterminds series is a clean, clever, and calculated book that will keep readers on their toes. Each chapter is told from the perspective of Eli, Tori, Hector, Malik, or Amber. As the truth behind Serenity is unveiled, their narratives show the unease, shock, anger, and doubts each child has about their existence and the purpose behind Serenity. Korman's underlying theme behind the series is nature verses nurture. But taking that theme further, Korman addresses what happens when the ones being nurtured find out their possible nature and the deceiving way their nurturers are combating it. A spectacular start to a promising series. Appropriate for ages 10 and up.