Yep, that's me finally getting round to this. I can safely say that this book delivers on all the praise that has been piled on it. First published in 2008, this still feels fresh and relevant now.
On the paper copy I bought (I prefer paper for Doctorow and a select few others) the tagline reads "novel of youthful rebellion". That really got my goat because this isn't a novel about rebellion. This kid just wanted to live his life as he always had. 17 and vanished to a government blacksite. Doing something about that is not "rebellion", it's being a good citizen!
The book also serves as a good primer to security and IT Security primarily. Given this is my professional field I can safely say it is spot on there, despite being 12 years old. It engages on the subject and gently teaches as part of the story without being overbearing.
At heart, this is a coming-of-age story. Well told, with engaging characters and a light touch that keeps it zinging along. I am told this is required reading in some schools worldwide for the 15+ age group. It should be recommended to them all.
Definitely recommended,