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All Better Now
Table of Contents
About The Book
An Instant New York Times Bestseller
From New York Times bestselling author Neal Shusterman comes a “thought-provoking and grimly enjoyable” (Kirkus Reviews) “epic biological thriller” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) about a world where happiness is contagious but the risks of catching it may be just as dangerous as the cure.
A deadly and unprecedented virus is spreading. But those who survive it experience long-term effects no one has ever seen before: utter contentment. Soon after infection, people find the stress, depression, greed, and other negative feelings that used to weigh them down are gone.
More and more people begin to revel in the mass unburdening. But not everyone. People in power—who depend on malcontents and prey on the insecure to sell their products, and convince others they need more, new, faster, better everything—know this new state of being is bad for business. Surely, without anger or jealousy as motivators, productivity will grind to a halt and the world will be thrown into chaos. Campaigns start up to convince people that being eternally happy is dangerous. The race to find a vaccine begins. Meanwhile, a growing movement of Recoverees plans ways to spread the virus as fast as they can, in the name of saving the world.
It’s nearly impossible to determine the truth when everyone with a platform is pushing their agenda. Three teens from very different backgrounds who’ve had their lives upended in very different ways find themselves at the center of a power play that could change humanity forever.
From New York Times bestselling author Neal Shusterman comes a “thought-provoking and grimly enjoyable” (Kirkus Reviews) “epic biological thriller” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) about a world where happiness is contagious but the risks of catching it may be just as dangerous as the cure.
A deadly and unprecedented virus is spreading. But those who survive it experience long-term effects no one has ever seen before: utter contentment. Soon after infection, people find the stress, depression, greed, and other negative feelings that used to weigh them down are gone.
More and more people begin to revel in the mass unburdening. But not everyone. People in power—who depend on malcontents and prey on the insecure to sell their products, and convince others they need more, new, faster, better everything—know this new state of being is bad for business. Surely, without anger or jealousy as motivators, productivity will grind to a halt and the world will be thrown into chaos. Campaigns start up to convince people that being eternally happy is dangerous. The race to find a vaccine begins. Meanwhile, a growing movement of Recoverees plans ways to spread the virus as fast as they can, in the name of saving the world.
It’s nearly impossible to determine the truth when everyone with a platform is pushing their agenda. Three teens from very different backgrounds who’ve had their lives upended in very different ways find themselves at the center of a power play that could change humanity forever.
Excerpt
Chapter 1: Mariel Rides Space Mountain 1 Mariel Rides Space Mountain
It was the wrong time to be living on the streets.
Not that there was ever a right time, but this new disease—it was picking up steam, threatening to be another pandem—No. No, Mariel didn’t even want to invoke the P word. As if just thinking it would make it so.
“It’s not so bad, baby,” her mother told her. “It’s not like we gotta be near people. Even out here we can find ways to isolate. We don’t gotta be near anyone if we don’t want to be.”
Mariel’s mother lived in denial. Truly lived there. If denial were a solid piece of real estate, Gena Mudroch would have a mansion on it. Or at least a garage so they’d finally have a safe and legal place to park their beat-up Fiesta.
Right now it was parked, all right. Behind a fence at the impound. Which was why Mariel and Gena were standing on a dark street in the seediest industrial part of town, in the middle of the night, waiting on someone who was, in theory, going to help them break their car out.
Unlike her mother, Mariel did not live in a constant state of denial. She was practical. A realist. She had to be; practicality was more than a survival skill—it was her superpower. Because without it, her mom would probably be dead, and Mariel would have been swallowed whole by the foster care system years ago.
“Maybe…,” began Mariel. “Maybe we should be with people.”
“What, and catch this thing? No way!”
“But maybe we should get it over with quick. You know—before the hospitals get full, while there are still services for us.”
Her mom brushed her straggly hair out of her eyes. “I know what you’re thinking,” she said, giving Mariel her suspicious look—the one she usually reserved for anyone and everyone else. “You can’t really believe what the nuts out there are saying?”
“I know it sounds… out there… but there’s always a chance it could be true.”
“Since when do you listen to rumors, huh? You, who’s gotta have scientific proof of everything under the sun!”
Her mother was right—rumor was the currency of ignorance. But anecdotal evidence had to count for something. “I’ve seen interviews with people who’ve had it,” Mariel told her mom. “They seem… I don’t know… different.”
“How can you know they’re different when you didn’t know ’em to begin with?”
Mariel shrugged. “There’s something in their eyes, Momma. Something… wise.”
Her mother guffawed at that. “Trust me, no one gets smart from getting sick.”
“I didn’t say ‘smart.’ I said ‘wise.’?”
But “wise” wasn’t really the word for it either. “Centered” was more like it. Being at home. Even if you don’t have one.
“You’re dreaming,” her mother said. “That’s okay, you’re allowed.”
As practical as Mariel needed to be to survive life with her mother, she wasn’t immune to the occasional flight of fancy. Especially when it gave her hope. She told herself that hanging on to hope was nothing like her mother’s perpetual state of denial, but deep down, she knew hope and denial were reluctant neighbors. They glared at each other from across the same silty river of circumstance.
Across the lonely street, a man walked with a purposeful gait, which also seemed a bit loose, like his joints were made of rubber. Although he was mostly in shadow, Mariel could tell he glanced over at them. Was this the guy? Or was this just someone who was gonna bring them trouble? Turned out he was neither; he just continued on his merry way toward whatever place a rubbery man goes at two in the morning.
“That’s not true, you know,” she said to her mom, who had already forgotten the conversation and needed to be reminded. “People do grow from being sick. What about Grandpa—he changed. He had a whole new perspective after he beat cancer.”
Her mother gave a rueful chuckle. “I wouldn’t want to go through that just to get some perspective. And besides, a heart attack got him not a year later, so what good did that perspective do?”
Mariel had no answer for that one. Now it was her mom sounding like the realist.
“We’ll be fine, baby,” she said. “We’ll find a place where we can park safe and legal, and then we’ll hunker down and wait it out, once we get the Grinch out of impound.” The Grinch was their green Fiesta. Mom had a thing about naming inanimate objects.
The guy who was coming to help them was late. Her mother had said “two-ish,” but that was from the guy who knew the guy that knew her mom. Three degrees of separation from a nameless man who already had their money.
Realism told Mariel he wasn’t coming. Hope told her that maybe something better was.
Mariel always did her best to align her need for hope with her practical nature. In this case, both told her that maybe it was best to lean into this pandemic—and yes, she used the P word, because clearly that’s what it was becoming. But a different one. A very different one.
The previous one, of course, was devastating. Millions dead worldwide. People fighting science, grasping at absurd conspiracy theories, hearsay, and random social media posts, even as they lay dying. While people who did follow the science and the rules wished death upon those who didn’t. That pandemic exposed the very worst of human nature on all sides.
Her mom, of course, was one of the deniers, and went out partying during the worst of it. She caught it early, and although Mariel never did, it seemed her mom had it bad enough for both of them. Bad enough to land her in the hospital. They still had insurance back then, but it didn’t matter, because there were no ventilators to be had. Her mom made it through—but it took forever. She had the long syndrome—not technically sick anymore, but not actually better. She couldn’t work for months, and once she could, her job was gone. The restaurant she had worked at, like so many restaurants in San Francisco, went permanently out of business.
After that, it was Space Mountain.
That’s what Mariel called her mother’s tumultuous downward spirals—which her mom always rode with her eyes firmly closed and in the dark. And although her mom managed to get occasional work here and there when the world opened up, the damage had been done. Damage on too many levels to count.
So now they were here. On a deserted street, where nobody in their right mind should be, at an hour nobody in their right mind should be there, waiting for a guy who probably wasn’t coming.
“Wouldn’t it have been better to just use the money to pay the ticket and the impound fee, instead of paying some guy you don’t even know?”
To that, her mother just grunted.
That money, which had been demanded in advance, was basically all the money they had left. The last bit given to them by Mariel’s uncle, who said it was the last time. Which was what he always said.
“This asshole ain’t showing,” her mom finally proclaimed. Then she sighed. “Sucks to be us.” That was her favorite expression. Right up there with “It is what it is.”
Well, Mariel refused to accept it being what it was. And she refused to accept a sucks-to-be-me attitude. Feeling sorry for herself wouldn’t help anyone, least of all her.
But that latest interview she had seen… If what she suspected was true, it could help everything. Change everything. Maybe.
It was just a few days ago. They had been sitting in a bar and grill that called itself a gastropub so they could charge more, and eating a meal that her mom would pay only about a third of before bailing. Mariel respected that about her mother: she wouldn’t just dine-and-ditch; she would always leave something.
“I won’t stiff the servers,” she told Mariel. “They deserve better than what we can give.” It was her hope that the server would pocket that money as a tip, and let the restaurant write off the meal.
The gastropub had three TVs, and although two of them were showing sports, the third showed the news. A man who had been hospitalized for “Crown Royale”—which was what they were calling this new coronaform virus—was being interviewed. For a man who had just been at death’s door, he looked pretty happy—and it wasn’t just relief at being alive.
“How do you feel now?” the reporter asked. A dumb but obligatory question.
The man smiled a genuine smile and seemed to focus on the reporter as if seeing something wonderful in her eyes.
“I feel better than ever!” he said. “Really—better than ever!” And then he laughed. He actually laughed. As if all his cares and worries had lifted with his fever, never to return.
Mariel could definitely use some of that.
It was the wrong time to be living on the streets.
Not that there was ever a right time, but this new disease—it was picking up steam, threatening to be another pandem—No. No, Mariel didn’t even want to invoke the P word. As if just thinking it would make it so.
“It’s not so bad, baby,” her mother told her. “It’s not like we gotta be near people. Even out here we can find ways to isolate. We don’t gotta be near anyone if we don’t want to be.”
Mariel’s mother lived in denial. Truly lived there. If denial were a solid piece of real estate, Gena Mudroch would have a mansion on it. Or at least a garage so they’d finally have a safe and legal place to park their beat-up Fiesta.
Right now it was parked, all right. Behind a fence at the impound. Which was why Mariel and Gena were standing on a dark street in the seediest industrial part of town, in the middle of the night, waiting on someone who was, in theory, going to help them break their car out.
Unlike her mother, Mariel did not live in a constant state of denial. She was practical. A realist. She had to be; practicality was more than a survival skill—it was her superpower. Because without it, her mom would probably be dead, and Mariel would have been swallowed whole by the foster care system years ago.
“Maybe…,” began Mariel. “Maybe we should be with people.”
“What, and catch this thing? No way!”
“But maybe we should get it over with quick. You know—before the hospitals get full, while there are still services for us.”
Her mom brushed her straggly hair out of her eyes. “I know what you’re thinking,” she said, giving Mariel her suspicious look—the one she usually reserved for anyone and everyone else. “You can’t really believe what the nuts out there are saying?”
“I know it sounds… out there… but there’s always a chance it could be true.”
“Since when do you listen to rumors, huh? You, who’s gotta have scientific proof of everything under the sun!”
Her mother was right—rumor was the currency of ignorance. But anecdotal evidence had to count for something. “I’ve seen interviews with people who’ve had it,” Mariel told her mom. “They seem… I don’t know… different.”
“How can you know they’re different when you didn’t know ’em to begin with?”
Mariel shrugged. “There’s something in their eyes, Momma. Something… wise.”
Her mother guffawed at that. “Trust me, no one gets smart from getting sick.”
“I didn’t say ‘smart.’ I said ‘wise.’?”
But “wise” wasn’t really the word for it either. “Centered” was more like it. Being at home. Even if you don’t have one.
“You’re dreaming,” her mother said. “That’s okay, you’re allowed.”
As practical as Mariel needed to be to survive life with her mother, she wasn’t immune to the occasional flight of fancy. Especially when it gave her hope. She told herself that hanging on to hope was nothing like her mother’s perpetual state of denial, but deep down, she knew hope and denial were reluctant neighbors. They glared at each other from across the same silty river of circumstance.
Across the lonely street, a man walked with a purposeful gait, which also seemed a bit loose, like his joints were made of rubber. Although he was mostly in shadow, Mariel could tell he glanced over at them. Was this the guy? Or was this just someone who was gonna bring them trouble? Turned out he was neither; he just continued on his merry way toward whatever place a rubbery man goes at two in the morning.
“That’s not true, you know,” she said to her mom, who had already forgotten the conversation and needed to be reminded. “People do grow from being sick. What about Grandpa—he changed. He had a whole new perspective after he beat cancer.”
Her mother gave a rueful chuckle. “I wouldn’t want to go through that just to get some perspective. And besides, a heart attack got him not a year later, so what good did that perspective do?”
Mariel had no answer for that one. Now it was her mom sounding like the realist.
“We’ll be fine, baby,” she said. “We’ll find a place where we can park safe and legal, and then we’ll hunker down and wait it out, once we get the Grinch out of impound.” The Grinch was their green Fiesta. Mom had a thing about naming inanimate objects.
The guy who was coming to help them was late. Her mother had said “two-ish,” but that was from the guy who knew the guy that knew her mom. Three degrees of separation from a nameless man who already had their money.
Realism told Mariel he wasn’t coming. Hope told her that maybe something better was.
Mariel always did her best to align her need for hope with her practical nature. In this case, both told her that maybe it was best to lean into this pandemic—and yes, she used the P word, because clearly that’s what it was becoming. But a different one. A very different one.
The previous one, of course, was devastating. Millions dead worldwide. People fighting science, grasping at absurd conspiracy theories, hearsay, and random social media posts, even as they lay dying. While people who did follow the science and the rules wished death upon those who didn’t. That pandemic exposed the very worst of human nature on all sides.
Her mom, of course, was one of the deniers, and went out partying during the worst of it. She caught it early, and although Mariel never did, it seemed her mom had it bad enough for both of them. Bad enough to land her in the hospital. They still had insurance back then, but it didn’t matter, because there were no ventilators to be had. Her mom made it through—but it took forever. She had the long syndrome—not technically sick anymore, but not actually better. She couldn’t work for months, and once she could, her job was gone. The restaurant she had worked at, like so many restaurants in San Francisco, went permanently out of business.
After that, it was Space Mountain.
That’s what Mariel called her mother’s tumultuous downward spirals—which her mom always rode with her eyes firmly closed and in the dark. And although her mom managed to get occasional work here and there when the world opened up, the damage had been done. Damage on too many levels to count.
So now they were here. On a deserted street, where nobody in their right mind should be, at an hour nobody in their right mind should be there, waiting for a guy who probably wasn’t coming.
“Wouldn’t it have been better to just use the money to pay the ticket and the impound fee, instead of paying some guy you don’t even know?”
To that, her mother just grunted.
That money, which had been demanded in advance, was basically all the money they had left. The last bit given to them by Mariel’s uncle, who said it was the last time. Which was what he always said.
“This asshole ain’t showing,” her mom finally proclaimed. Then she sighed. “Sucks to be us.” That was her favorite expression. Right up there with “It is what it is.”
Well, Mariel refused to accept it being what it was. And she refused to accept a sucks-to-be-me attitude. Feeling sorry for herself wouldn’t help anyone, least of all her.
But that latest interview she had seen… If what she suspected was true, it could help everything. Change everything. Maybe.
It was just a few days ago. They had been sitting in a bar and grill that called itself a gastropub so they could charge more, and eating a meal that her mom would pay only about a third of before bailing. Mariel respected that about her mother: she wouldn’t just dine-and-ditch; she would always leave something.
“I won’t stiff the servers,” she told Mariel. “They deserve better than what we can give.” It was her hope that the server would pocket that money as a tip, and let the restaurant write off the meal.
The gastropub had three TVs, and although two of them were showing sports, the third showed the news. A man who had been hospitalized for “Crown Royale”—which was what they were calling this new coronaform virus—was being interviewed. For a man who had just been at death’s door, he looked pretty happy—and it wasn’t just relief at being alive.
“How do you feel now?” the reporter asked. A dumb but obligatory question.
The man smiled a genuine smile and seemed to focus on the reporter as if seeing something wonderful in her eyes.
“I feel better than ever!” he said. “Really—better than ever!” And then he laughed. He actually laughed. As if all his cares and worries had lifted with his fever, never to return.
Mariel could definitely use some of that.
Reading Group Guide
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Reading Group Guide
All Better Now
By Neal Shusterman
About the Book
It’s nearly impossible to determine the truth when everyone with a platform is pushing their agenda. In this thrilling speculative novel, three teens from very different backgrounds have their lives upended in very different ways, finding themselves at the center of a power play that could change humanity forever.
Discussion Questions
1. As All Better Now opens, readers are introduced to Mariel and her mother as Mariel shares, “It was the wrong time to be living on the streets.” (Chapter one) How does the harsh reality of being unhomed during the time of another spreading pandemic set the stage for a life-changing encounter with Rón, a seemingly wealthy, enigmatic young man?
2. When considering his family’s wealth and the ways in which it impacts how they interact in the world and how they are perceived, Rón offers, “When you have as much money as the Escobedos, it becomes a Victorian corset. Wear your wealth long enough and it cuts off your circulation until you can barely breathe.” (Chapter two) In what ways is the extreme wealth of the Escobedo family both a blessing and a curse, especially to Rón? How has this reality kept him from feeling like he has a purpose? Consider and discuss how wealth and power influence the motivations, actions, and relationships of other characters and shape their actions throughout the novel.
3. Based on the early parts of All Better Now, what do you believe defines Rón’s relationship with his father, Blas Escobedo? What are some ways their relationship changes as the novel progresses? How is the relationship between Mariel and her mother different? Compare the two different parenting styles and discuss how that affects Mariel and Rón.
4. How would you describe Dame Havilland and Morgan Willmon-Wu? In what ways are they similar? What are the specific tactics Dame Havilland uses to test Morgan’s resourcefulness before their meeting? Do you believe she’s smart to do so? Why or why not?
5. After his recovery from Crown Royale and their departure from the Pier Peer Collective, Rón tells Mariel, “‘I’ve been alone a lot of my life, but I want to be—I need to be—around people now. Lots of people. Because there’s tons of good I can do out there, Mariel. Tons of good!’” (Chapter eighteen) Compare Rón’s desire for purpose to his father’s mission for him before he caught Crown Royale. In what ways are these drives to “help others” different? Considering the quote above, why does his use of “I” instead of “we” bother Mariel so much? Do you think she has a right to be concerned?
6. Zee tells Rón, “‘I won’t ask you to do anything you don’t want to do, son. I won’t put you in that position. . . But if it’s in your heart to go out there into the world . . . I won’t stop you.’” (Chapter sixteen) Discuss the differences between a mandate, or giving an order, and giving permission. To what degree do you see Zee’s words having power over Rón, if at all? How do you think this discussion with Zee influenced the decisions Rón makes throughout the rest of the novel?
7. As Zee preps Mariel for what she’ll need to do to keep Rón safe on their journey, he tells her, “‘Be his eyes, Mariel. His own are distracted by all the new he can see. He could miss things. Basic survival sorts of things.’” She retorts, “‘Survival’s my specialty.’” (Chapter eighteen) How has Mariel already proven this throughout the novel? Given Rón’s experiences in life thus far, why is he at a disadvantage?
8. In All Better Now, the Crown Royale virus reduces negative emotions such as fear, anger, and ambition, resulting in widespread contentment, a decline in consumerism and desire for material positions, and a strong urge to seek experiences, activity, and forward momentum. Why is this shift in behavior feared by industries and business leaders? Do you think they are right to be concerned? Why or why not?
9. Despite their differing beliefs on how they should proceed, Rón remains resolved to “share” Crown Royale widely, regardless of Mariel’s deep concerns. She compromises with him: “‘I get to choose who you expose, and when. . . That way it’s on my head as much as it’s on yours. Then we’ll really be a team.’” (Chapter twenty-two) Given Mariel’s feelings, why are the pair at such odds with his decision? Despite the seemingly positive effects, what is the ethical dilemma of spreading the virus?
10. Consider what you learn about Mariel and Rón throughout the novel. In what ways are they similar and how are they different? Which character do you identify most with, and why?
11. Explore the theme of identity in All Better Now. How do characters like Rón, Morgan, Dame Havilland, and Blas Escobedo grapple with defining themselves in the face of external pressures and personal challenges? Consider the actions, beliefs, and motivations that define the three main characters—Rón, Mariel, and Morgan—throughout the entire novel. How do they view their existence next to Crown Royale? Is the virus a friend, a foe, or something else entirely? At the end, is each character the same person you met at the beginning of the novel? How so?
12. Considering how Rón and Mariel wrestle with the implications of their actions and how those actions affect others, describe how All Better Now highlights the tension between their personal desires and the needs of the wider community.
13. Despite being a Crown Royale recoveree, Dame Havilland remains dogged in her mission to stop Morgan from executing her plan to eradicate the virus altogether. How does she work around both her own stopgaps to prevent herself from interfering in Morgan’s mission and the peaceful, nonviolent nature of Crown Royale survivors? In what ways does she rationalize her actions? Do you see her justifications as appropriate? Explain your answer. Furthermore, discuss the ways in which a recoveree’s nature changes, but their personalities remain true to who they were before catching the virus.
14. As they discuss how Rón is to move forward, Jarrick Javins tells Rón, “‘I have powerful visions of a day when the world as it is now is so strange to us, so primitive, as to be incomprehensible. All thanks to the virus that evolves us.’” (Chapter thirty-seven) Why does Javins believe Rón has such a pivotal role to play in the future of humanity? What causes him to believe that Rón must help spread the virus further to achieve a greater good?
15. Explore the concept of recovery as presented in the novel. How does Crown Royale redefine “recovery” in the context of both individual characters and society as a whole? The emergence of terms like “recoverees,” “unembraced,” and “viral spider,” among others, creates a stark division within society. Describe how this polarization fuels suspicion, prejudice, and violence among the population as those who fear Crown Royale’s effects seek to control or eliminate those who have been infected.
16. As she makes her case for getting Mariel’s assistance in the creation of a vaccine that will eradicate Crown Royale, Morgan tells Mariel, “‘You and I—we could be partners in bringing something important to the world! . . . Imagine it! Crown Royale defeated by two women!’” (Chapter thirty-six) How does Morgan’s statement showcase her ambition and drive to be recognized for her achievements? Based on what you’ve read about her, why might Mariel be attracted to the idea of making a mark on the world?
17. Discuss the significance of family relationships in the novel. How do familial bonds both support and hinder the characters’ journeys?
18. Dr. Nødtvedt, the curator of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, a genetic safe room of sorts, tells Morgan, “‘There are little doomsdays all the time, Miss Willmon-Wu.’” (Chapter nineteen) How does Dr. Nødtvedt’s perspective provide a greater understanding of the other risks to mankind and the planet besides Crown Royale, and why is it an important one?
19. Beyond the impact on individual characters, examine the ethical implications of spreading Crown Royale. Be sure to include in your explanation the extents to which some people seem willing to go in order to spread the virus. Consider the perspectives of various characters, and evaluate the potential benefits and drawbacks of a world where everyone is infected with the virus.
20. Analyze the ending of All Better Now. Would you describe it as optimistic, pessimistic, or ambiguous? Using textual evidence, explain your position and share what you believe will happen next.
Extension Activities
1. In All Better Now, Crown Royale is a contagious virus that eliminates selfishness and aggression in its victims, turning them into altruistic individuals. It possesses the extraordinary ability to irrevocably alter human behavior and perception. Based on what you’ve learned from your reading of the novel, do you see Crown Royale as a blessing or a curse? Select one of the characters in the novel and write a personal letter to them sharing your perspective.
2. The difference between hero and villain is not always clear. Are there ways in which the characters in Shusterman’s All Better Now are symbolic of humanity as a whole? Using textual evidence from the novel, craft an essay where you make a case for a particular character. Do you see them as a hero? A villain? A combination of both?
3. In All Better Now, critics of Crown Royale warn of the possibility for its effects to be exploited for malicious purposes. In the novel, Morgan Willmon-Wu manipulates public perception of the virus through disinformation campaigns to further her own agenda through strategic social and public media outreach. Why should there be concerns about the potential for powerful individuals or governments to control and exploit the altered behavior of recoverees for their own gain? Consider and discuss this technique, and find contemporary real-world examples of similar disinformation campaigns. Why are these so problematic? Are there effective ways to counter these? Brainstorm ideas to do so.
4. Shusterman infuses this story with rich, powerful, figurative language. Embark on a literary scavenger hunt throughout the book to locate your favorite quotes. Create a sharable digital quote card image to be published on an approved and appropriate social media platform of your choice (remember to attribute appropriately).
5. Through his nuanced and layered storytelling in All Better Now, Shusterman offers readers multiple complex themes to consider. Select one of the following themes to explore further: wealth and its impact; legacy and purpose; social disruption and economic upheaval; loss of agency and ambition; choice and free will. Using a medium of choice (including digital tools) or creative writing, create a product that showcases your understanding of this theme from the novel.
6. While featured in Shusterman’s fictional novel, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault is a real-world facility designed to preserve plant biodiversity in the event of a global catastrophe, and it becomes a symbolic battleground in the story. Using trusted online and library resources, research to learn more about this facility. After doing so, consider the following: In what ways does the Svalbard Global Seed Vault represent both hope for the future and the potential for catastrophic loss? Share your findings and thoughts with others.
7. Grab a hat or a bag and fill it with twenty-five blue balls and five yellow balls (or cards, or marbles—anything that can be blue or yellow). Have everyone in your class or group reach in to select a ball—make sure they’re not looking! Whoever gets a yellow ball is a “recoveree” for twenty-four hours and must spend the next day following only their most positive, most loving, most altruistic instincts. Afterward, the class should discuss how everyone was affected by the recoverees’ actions. The recoverees should also be prepared to discuss how this changed their own decision-making processes, and if it affected their schedule or relationships in any significant way.
This guide was created by Dr. Rose Brock[NS6] , an associate professor in Library Science and Technology Department in the College of Education at Sam Houston State University. Dr. Brock holds a Ph.D. in Library Science, specializing in children’s and young adult literature.
This guide has been provided by Simon & Schuster for classroom, library, and reading group use. It may be reproduced in its entirety or excerpted for these purposes. For more Simon & Schuster guides and classroom materials, please visit simonandschuster.net or https://www.simonandschuster.net/m/prek12-teachers-librarians/the-book-pantry.
All Better Now
By Neal Shusterman
About the Book
It’s nearly impossible to determine the truth when everyone with a platform is pushing their agenda. In this thrilling speculative novel, three teens from very different backgrounds have their lives upended in very different ways, finding themselves at the center of a power play that could change humanity forever.
Discussion Questions
1. As All Better Now opens, readers are introduced to Mariel and her mother as Mariel shares, “It was the wrong time to be living on the streets.” (Chapter one) How does the harsh reality of being unhomed during the time of another spreading pandemic set the stage for a life-changing encounter with Rón, a seemingly wealthy, enigmatic young man?
2. When considering his family’s wealth and the ways in which it impacts how they interact in the world and how they are perceived, Rón offers, “When you have as much money as the Escobedos, it becomes a Victorian corset. Wear your wealth long enough and it cuts off your circulation until you can barely breathe.” (Chapter two) In what ways is the extreme wealth of the Escobedo family both a blessing and a curse, especially to Rón? How has this reality kept him from feeling like he has a purpose? Consider and discuss how wealth and power influence the motivations, actions, and relationships of other characters and shape their actions throughout the novel.
3. Based on the early parts of All Better Now, what do you believe defines Rón’s relationship with his father, Blas Escobedo? What are some ways their relationship changes as the novel progresses? How is the relationship between Mariel and her mother different? Compare the two different parenting styles and discuss how that affects Mariel and Rón.
4. How would you describe Dame Havilland and Morgan Willmon-Wu? In what ways are they similar? What are the specific tactics Dame Havilland uses to test Morgan’s resourcefulness before their meeting? Do you believe she’s smart to do so? Why or why not?
5. After his recovery from Crown Royale and their departure from the Pier Peer Collective, Rón tells Mariel, “‘I’ve been alone a lot of my life, but I want to be—I need to be—around people now. Lots of people. Because there’s tons of good I can do out there, Mariel. Tons of good!’” (Chapter eighteen) Compare Rón’s desire for purpose to his father’s mission for him before he caught Crown Royale. In what ways are these drives to “help others” different? Considering the quote above, why does his use of “I” instead of “we” bother Mariel so much? Do you think she has a right to be concerned?
6. Zee tells Rón, “‘I won’t ask you to do anything you don’t want to do, son. I won’t put you in that position. . . But if it’s in your heart to go out there into the world . . . I won’t stop you.’” (Chapter sixteen) Discuss the differences between a mandate, or giving an order, and giving permission. To what degree do you see Zee’s words having power over Rón, if at all? How do you think this discussion with Zee influenced the decisions Rón makes throughout the rest of the novel?
7. As Zee preps Mariel for what she’ll need to do to keep Rón safe on their journey, he tells her, “‘Be his eyes, Mariel. His own are distracted by all the new he can see. He could miss things. Basic survival sorts of things.’” She retorts, “‘Survival’s my specialty.’” (Chapter eighteen) How has Mariel already proven this throughout the novel? Given Rón’s experiences in life thus far, why is he at a disadvantage?
8. In All Better Now, the Crown Royale virus reduces negative emotions such as fear, anger, and ambition, resulting in widespread contentment, a decline in consumerism and desire for material positions, and a strong urge to seek experiences, activity, and forward momentum. Why is this shift in behavior feared by industries and business leaders? Do you think they are right to be concerned? Why or why not?
9. Despite their differing beliefs on how they should proceed, Rón remains resolved to “share” Crown Royale widely, regardless of Mariel’s deep concerns. She compromises with him: “‘I get to choose who you expose, and when. . . That way it’s on my head as much as it’s on yours. Then we’ll really be a team.’” (Chapter twenty-two) Given Mariel’s feelings, why are the pair at such odds with his decision? Despite the seemingly positive effects, what is the ethical dilemma of spreading the virus?
10. Consider what you learn about Mariel and Rón throughout the novel. In what ways are they similar and how are they different? Which character do you identify most with, and why?
11. Explore the theme of identity in All Better Now. How do characters like Rón, Morgan, Dame Havilland, and Blas Escobedo grapple with defining themselves in the face of external pressures and personal challenges? Consider the actions, beliefs, and motivations that define the three main characters—Rón, Mariel, and Morgan—throughout the entire novel. How do they view their existence next to Crown Royale? Is the virus a friend, a foe, or something else entirely? At the end, is each character the same person you met at the beginning of the novel? How so?
12. Considering how Rón and Mariel wrestle with the implications of their actions and how those actions affect others, describe how All Better Now highlights the tension between their personal desires and the needs of the wider community.
13. Despite being a Crown Royale recoveree, Dame Havilland remains dogged in her mission to stop Morgan from executing her plan to eradicate the virus altogether. How does she work around both her own stopgaps to prevent herself from interfering in Morgan’s mission and the peaceful, nonviolent nature of Crown Royale survivors? In what ways does she rationalize her actions? Do you see her justifications as appropriate? Explain your answer. Furthermore, discuss the ways in which a recoveree’s nature changes, but their personalities remain true to who they were before catching the virus.
14. As they discuss how Rón is to move forward, Jarrick Javins tells Rón, “‘I have powerful visions of a day when the world as it is now is so strange to us, so primitive, as to be incomprehensible. All thanks to the virus that evolves us.’” (Chapter thirty-seven) Why does Javins believe Rón has such a pivotal role to play in the future of humanity? What causes him to believe that Rón must help spread the virus further to achieve a greater good?
15. Explore the concept of recovery as presented in the novel. How does Crown Royale redefine “recovery” in the context of both individual characters and society as a whole? The emergence of terms like “recoverees,” “unembraced,” and “viral spider,” among others, creates a stark division within society. Describe how this polarization fuels suspicion, prejudice, and violence among the population as those who fear Crown Royale’s effects seek to control or eliminate those who have been infected.
16. As she makes her case for getting Mariel’s assistance in the creation of a vaccine that will eradicate Crown Royale, Morgan tells Mariel, “‘You and I—we could be partners in bringing something important to the world! . . . Imagine it! Crown Royale defeated by two women!’” (Chapter thirty-six) How does Morgan’s statement showcase her ambition and drive to be recognized for her achievements? Based on what you’ve read about her, why might Mariel be attracted to the idea of making a mark on the world?
17. Discuss the significance of family relationships in the novel. How do familial bonds both support and hinder the characters’ journeys?
18. Dr. Nødtvedt, the curator of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, a genetic safe room of sorts, tells Morgan, “‘There are little doomsdays all the time, Miss Willmon-Wu.’” (Chapter nineteen) How does Dr. Nødtvedt’s perspective provide a greater understanding of the other risks to mankind and the planet besides Crown Royale, and why is it an important one?
19. Beyond the impact on individual characters, examine the ethical implications of spreading Crown Royale. Be sure to include in your explanation the extents to which some people seem willing to go in order to spread the virus. Consider the perspectives of various characters, and evaluate the potential benefits and drawbacks of a world where everyone is infected with the virus.
20. Analyze the ending of All Better Now. Would you describe it as optimistic, pessimistic, or ambiguous? Using textual evidence, explain your position and share what you believe will happen next.
Extension Activities
1. In All Better Now, Crown Royale is a contagious virus that eliminates selfishness and aggression in its victims, turning them into altruistic individuals. It possesses the extraordinary ability to irrevocably alter human behavior and perception. Based on what you’ve learned from your reading of the novel, do you see Crown Royale as a blessing or a curse? Select one of the characters in the novel and write a personal letter to them sharing your perspective.
2. The difference between hero and villain is not always clear. Are there ways in which the characters in Shusterman’s All Better Now are symbolic of humanity as a whole? Using textual evidence from the novel, craft an essay where you make a case for a particular character. Do you see them as a hero? A villain? A combination of both?
3. In All Better Now, critics of Crown Royale warn of the possibility for its effects to be exploited for malicious purposes. In the novel, Morgan Willmon-Wu manipulates public perception of the virus through disinformation campaigns to further her own agenda through strategic social and public media outreach. Why should there be concerns about the potential for powerful individuals or governments to control and exploit the altered behavior of recoverees for their own gain? Consider and discuss this technique, and find contemporary real-world examples of similar disinformation campaigns. Why are these so problematic? Are there effective ways to counter these? Brainstorm ideas to do so.
4. Shusterman infuses this story with rich, powerful, figurative language. Embark on a literary scavenger hunt throughout the book to locate your favorite quotes. Create a sharable digital quote card image to be published on an approved and appropriate social media platform of your choice (remember to attribute appropriately).
5. Through his nuanced and layered storytelling in All Better Now, Shusterman offers readers multiple complex themes to consider. Select one of the following themes to explore further: wealth and its impact; legacy and purpose; social disruption and economic upheaval; loss of agency and ambition; choice and free will. Using a medium of choice (including digital tools) or creative writing, create a product that showcases your understanding of this theme from the novel.
6. While featured in Shusterman’s fictional novel, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault is a real-world facility designed to preserve plant biodiversity in the event of a global catastrophe, and it becomes a symbolic battleground in the story. Using trusted online and library resources, research to learn more about this facility. After doing so, consider the following: In what ways does the Svalbard Global Seed Vault represent both hope for the future and the potential for catastrophic loss? Share your findings and thoughts with others.
7. Grab a hat or a bag and fill it with twenty-five blue balls and five yellow balls (or cards, or marbles—anything that can be blue or yellow). Have everyone in your class or group reach in to select a ball—make sure they’re not looking! Whoever gets a yellow ball is a “recoveree” for twenty-four hours and must spend the next day following only their most positive, most loving, most altruistic instincts. Afterward, the class should discuss how everyone was affected by the recoverees’ actions. The recoverees should also be prepared to discuss how this changed their own decision-making processes, and if it affected their schedule or relationships in any significant way.
This guide was created by Dr. Rose Brock[NS6] , an associate professor in Library Science and Technology Department in the College of Education at Sam Houston State University. Dr. Brock holds a Ph.D. in Library Science, specializing in children’s and young adult literature.
This guide has been provided by Simon & Schuster for classroom, library, and reading group use. It may be reproduced in its entirety or excerpted for these purposes. For more Simon & Schuster guides and classroom materials, please visit simonandschuster.net or https://www.simonandschuster.net/m/prek12-teachers-librarians/the-book-pantry.
About The Author
(c) Gaby Gerster
Neal Shusterman is the New York Times bestselling author of more than thirty award-winning books for children, teens, and adults, including the Unwind dystology, the Skinjacker trilogy, Downsiders, and Challenger Deep, which won the National Book Award. Scythe, the first book in his series Arc of a Scythe is a Michael L. Printz Honor Book. He also writes screenplays for motion pictures and television shows. Neal is the father of four, all of whom are talented writers and artists themselves. Visit Neal at StoryMan.com and Facebook.com/NealShusterman.
Product Details
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (February 4, 2025)
- Length: 528 pages
- ISBN13: 9781534432758
- Grades: 7 and up
- Ages: 12 - 99
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Raves and Reviews
"Neal Shusterman gifts teen audiences with another gripping and evocative sci-fi that asks readers to contemplate if anything is worth lifelong happiness."
– -Shelf Awareness, 2/14/25
"Shusterman has crafted a good fit for contemporary thriller fans."
– -Booklist, 01/01/2025
"The plot twists keep coming all the way to the enigmatic, jaw-dropping conclusion in this exquisitely rendered work."
– -Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW, Publishers Weekly
"A thought-provoking and grimly enjoyable tale exploring a strange future."
– -Kirkus, 12/1/24
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All Better Now
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