I received a complimentary copy of this book for use in review. All opinions are my own.
About the Book
Teenagers Tim and Martie are desperate to end their parents' downward spiral. Between their father's PTSD and their mother's depression, their family has reached a breaking point. Then an ancient Christmas ornament reveals its secrets, sending the siblings across the centuries on a search for hope. But Tim and Martie aren't the only ones hunting through time. They're being watched by dark figures-Trackers doomed to haunt history. These Trackers believe the teens' ornament is their key to freedom, and they will do whatever it takes to steal it. What begins as an exciting adventure becomes a deadly race. Can Tim and Martie find the answers they seek before their enemy finds them?
My Review
Great Blend of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Historical Fiction. My daughters love sci-fi/fantasy novels. They have been hooked from the early days of The Magic Treehouse, Percy Jackson and The Hunger Games. This series opener made me happy, as a mom, on many levels! It added in doses of realistic, historical fiction settings and kept the fantasy/sci-fi realm of interest alive at the same time. Just as the kids learn mythology from Percy Jackson--they have a great opportunity to dig deeper into historical times with StarPassage.
The Author Writes Well for the Intended Age Group--but, Parents Can Read Too! It is not always easy to create a series that both the kids and the parents can read without being bored or confused (on either end of the age spectrum.) The author has a great writing style for the middle school aged audience--but, makes the content complex and interesting enough that parents can read as well.
Readers will Want to Follow the Series. The book's ending leaves enough to pull readers into the 2nd book of the series (which I began to read last weekend and will be reviewing in a couple of days!) There is enough resolution to satisfyingly end the first book--yet leave some threads dangling for book two!
Would I recommend Star Passage Book One: The Relic Book? I think this is a wonderful book to encourage the kids to visit or revisit some history-themed topics. However; readers should be aware that there is a spiritual/faith based element present as well. ( I didn't find this overdone--but, it may be perceived a bit stronger by some.) I felt that there were times when some of the characters seemed to behave a bit "out of character" or act a bit too abruptly--or the scene seemed a bit stretched or forced--but, I think those things would be far more noticeable to some of the parent/adult readers than to upper elementary/middle school readers. I would recommend the book to sci-fi fantasy fans--and to parents seeking to prime a child's interest in history via some tried and true, often enjoyed, fantasy themed content.--and I will add my 11 year old's thoughts once she finishes the book!
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Meet the Author
Clark enjoys life in the foothills of the Rockies, near Salt Lake City, Utah, with his wife Leah and their blended family of ten children and five grandchildren. Clark has written seven titles and is the recipient of multiple awards, including four Mom's Choice Gold Medals for top Young Adult Fiction. Clark's StarPassage series encourages teens to have hope, cope with family struggles and always perserve in the face of obstacles. "I wanted people, especially children who struggle to feel there is real hope that they can overcome family challenges and personal challenges. This book provides such hope and encouragement I believe."
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