On the cons, there are parts where the writing is a touch simplistic and reveals that this is Kayatta's debut novel. He is witty and believable and very human. I'm not a reviewer who likes to spoil plot - I think you're better to read it with a clean slate, but I love Kayatta's Dr. It is entertaining without descending to the level of 'literary junk food'. He mixes truly funny moments with addictive action scenes. Kayatta hooks readers with his easy pace and engaging writing style. A little bit 'Oh another Sci-Fi book about high tech gadgets and time running out' (yawn). 'I was a little bit iffy about the concept at first it seemed intriguing but maybe a bit done. Overall, John Gone is an enjoyable read with an entertaining storyline, a believable main character, and some very intense science.' The Aussie Zombie And although the story of the scientist, Felix, who invented the watch was interesting, it all felt a little bit too drawn out and at times I found myself struggling to understand exactly what was happening. The ideas behind the story are sold well, but I did find the science a bit too overwhelming for me personally. When John is teleported to new and unknown locations the action sequences had me hanging on every word. His friendship with Ronika, a kooky computer whiz is genuine yet complicated, and as the story progresses their growing friendship feels natural and not at all engineered. John is a likeable teenage boy who has a close relationship with his mother, but feels socially isolated growing up on a Floridian island surrounded by retirees. John Gone is a well-written and enjoyable YA science-fiction story.

But for John, teleportation comes about by accident and has potentially devastating consequences when he finds a watch on the beach near his home. Imagine the possibilities - that nasty work commute is over in the blink of an eye, no more 'I-want-to-pull-my-own-eyeballs out' long-haul flights and popping to the shops becomes literal. 'Teleportation is an idea that has always fascinated me.

John Gone by Michael Kayatta