SuitabookAt the Speed of Lies
Cindy L. Otis
- Reading
- Because the suspense involves missing children and threats, check in during reading if those subjects are difficult. Afterwards, discuss one claim at a time and examine how the characters respond to uncertainty.
- Themes
- Misinformation and conspiracy: Quinn’s posts about missing children attract followers, rumours and conspiracy theories, while she tries to establish what is true. The story presents unchecked claims and mass online belief as capable of producing harmful confusion and vigilante threats.
- Disability and ableism: Quinn feels socially left behind after illness and navigates experiences of disability and ableism while investigating the disappearances. The book presents this favourably.
- Online attention and self-worth: Quinn initially welcomes viral attention and increased followers, but her account becomes central to escalating events and is difficult to abandon because it provides income. The narrative links the pursuit of attention with impaired judgement, pressure and danger, while contrasting online metrics with real relationships.
- Worth knowing
- The story includes kidnappings or disappearances, conspiracy theories, violent threats, bullying and social exclusion. Quinn’s rheumatoid arthritis, wheelchair use and experiences of ableism are significant aspects of her perspective.