The novel Numbers by Rachel Ward is a gripping representation of real life teen issues. Rachel Ward describes a girl named Jem who is struggling to find herself throughout the book, which is a common struggle many teenagers face. Jem was a teenager who often felt aloof and was not able to believe in people. Her mother’s death further alienated her from others and made her feel even more like an outcast. The feeling of isolation Jem was feeling was not helped by Jem’s unusual gift; whenever she looks into people’s eyes she sees the date of their death. . Spider a classmate, becomes a close friend to Jem and she slowly begins to learn to trust him. One day they went out to take a stroll and Jem sees all the people that were there had the same number. Spider and her run away and twenty minutes later the London Eye was bombed. They see the news and they hear that the police was looking for two young suspects that were seen running away from the scene just minutes before the bombing. They decide to run away and they embark on a journey that brings them even closer together. The language in the novel is not complicated and easily draws the reader into the plot. Rachel Ward does an excellent job of keeping her teen audience in mind and using vocabulary and imagery that don’t confuse or muddle the progression of the plot. Although the plot would seem to be hard to follow since there are so many numbers and dates to remember, Ms. Ward manages to keep the writing concise and allows the reader to be fully engrossed in the action without losing the quick pace and direction of the work. Basically, the writing makes sense which is admirable considering that the author is dealing with a book concept that is difficult in theory. The work has specific purpose and it is clear to the reader that everything in the book happens for a reason….understanding that is part of the fun. Another relatable element of the novel is Rachel Wards ability to write in a way that mirrors the real world. The work reflects some of the struggles many teenagers work through; trying to develop a sense of self while dealing with society and learning who they are, learning to adapt to situations that are out of one’s control and taking responsibility for decisions and actions regardless of the outcome. By creating relatable experiences, the author connects with teens and draws them into the magical little world Numbers creates. Jem feels like a person the reader might know, she is complex yet believable. Although Jem’s “gift” is supernatural causing the reader to fully utilize suspense of their disbelief -Ward allows Jem’s struggle to learn to love when she was once untrusting and filled with fear be the common theme unifies young readers. Although this book does not have any super heroes it does let the reader escape from reality by giving the main character Jem a supernatural gift. Rachel Ward gives a fine narrative of the characters and what they are going through. This book is full of love, excitement, and some new surprises but there are two more books that continue in the series.