One of the books I read for the first semester is titled Steelheart, the first book of the series The Reckoners, by Brandon Sanderson, which is a 386-page novel. In this sci-fi novel, it presents a world in which the appearance of a giant red star known as Calamity gave random people superpowers and near invincibility, turning them into Epics. The protagonist, David, lives in Newcago run by Steelheart and struggles to trust the Epics due to a tragic event involving his father. As a result, he spends his entire life studying them and participating in a secret resistance, the Reckoners, in an attempt to end the rule of the Epics.
What kept me glued to the book is the author's attention to details and sharpness in action scenes. Throughout the book, there are many different fighting scenes between the Reckoners and the Epics, and Sanderson did well keeping the readers intrigued as every twist and turn leaves readers guessing right up until the end (boo cliffhangers). It was also fun because Sanderson allows the audience to participate in the story by making them work out certain aspects of the Epics, such as their weaknesses and history. Then when the book finally reveals these details, I can't help but laugh at my wild theories. Also, even though the book includes super-powered villains, their names (Pink Pinkness and Deathpointer) were comical, brightening up the dark theme of the novel. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys marvel like stories.
One thing I would change about this book is the depth of David's character. His character is a typical teenager in that he is a nerd, lacks a sense of humor, and not particularly smooth around girls. However, he is also a deeply disordered teenager who is armed to the bone and equipped to kill, which is disturbing as he is eighteen years old. The fact that he is violent and does what his mind wants might influence readers (young adults) to idolize him, and become ruthless. As it is a series, the following book will presumably explore more of David, especially after the ending.
I enjoyed reading your review on your book, I for sure would want to read this book. I liked the attention you put into explaining what the book is about.
ReplyDeleteI've always wanted to read an interesting sci-fi novel, the only thing that's stopped me has been the fact that most sci-fi novels I try to start have been slow and boring. With that being said, I'm glad that I read your review because Steelheart seems to be the sci-fi novel that I've been looking for. The way you described the action scenes, character development, and overall story has made me eager to read a chapter. I hope I'm able to read it someday and maybe even read the whole series!
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