Saturday, November 28, 2009

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld - ADVISABLE

 Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld, 439 pages. Simon and Schuster, 2009. $19.99. 

Violence: PG

EL, MS, HS – ADVISABLE

Alek, the son of Archduke Ferdinand, is on the run for his life after the murder of his parents by rebels. If Alek can learn to pilot the huge mechanical Stormwalker, he and his protectors may just escape into safety in Switzerland. Deryn, a girl, has disguised herself as Dylan, a boy, and put herself forward for the British Air Service. After a disastrous first flight, she now finds herself aboard Leviathan – a giant genetically-engineered airship that was created by Darwinist. When Leviathan is shot down near Alek’s mountain hideout, the two teens will meet and disaster will ensue with rescue, perhaps, shortly behind. 


This strange alternate history of mechanical monstrosities on the German side and genetically-engineered creatures on the British side makes for a very different read for fans of Westerfeld’s other two series. Science fiction is not as popular as fantasy or horror, but I hope those that pick this up will find that they really enjoyed it. Personally, I can’t wait for the next in the series – I have some thoughts as to where this may be going. Cross your fingers! 


Cindy, Library-Teacher.

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