Sky on Fire by Emmy LaybourneMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Usually the middle book of a series is the lull in the action. This book blows that idea right out of the water.
Sky on Fire continues the story of the 14 kids, trapped in a Monument, CO Greenway store after both a natural disaster and a chemical weapons spill. They've survived pretty well, even after the effects of the chemical weapons spill manifests its effects on the kids. They've also been smart enough to spot adults that might not want to help. But this line gets blurred as they, as kids, struggle to balance their natural need for adult guidance with the necessity to avoid the crazies. And ultimately they find the need to be proactive in their own rescue.
A lot happens in this book. It's an interesting blend of some new characters, some new adventures and a lot of disaster and suspense. The darker side of the situation is revealed here. The real heroes rise up. The leadership structure of the group changes somewhat; those that can and can't handle it becomes glaringly evident. Because the characters are established, the action can come to the forefront. And because the story has progressed to include adults, the story itself becomes more adult. The kids here have become kids only in terms of their age; in all other ways they are simply survivors.
The adults in the story are portrayed positively for the most part. The actual villains are really just older kids. And in the end, Dean and Alex and Niko and Josie have to make mature decisions that will best benefit the group as a whole. The suspense here is palpable.
On audio the book is narrated by Todd Haberkorn who is just stellar. He makes the book come alive through Dean and Alex's voices. The book could not have benefited more from a better narrator.
This book takes the Monument 14 story to a whole new level. It is riveting, a true page turner. And a satisfying ending still leaves loose ends, paving the way for what promises to be a thrilling end to the series.
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