Review by Jacob Chon, grade 9

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Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

In an alternate universe, it is 1914. Britain has survived by splicing genes and animals meant for specific tasks, courtesy of Charles Darwin. Germany has endured by inventing and producing mechanical walkers to do their military work. Prince Alek of the Austrians is enjoying the absence of his parents until he is informed by Klopp and Volger, two family friends, that his mother and father were killed by Serbs.  Before he can do anything he is bundled away into a Stormwalker, a two legged mechanical military machine armed to the teeth. They escape German mercenaries and soldiers to a hideout in Switzerland. Meanwhile in Britain, Deryn, a 15-year-old girl, disguises herself as a boy to get into the British Air Service. She is assigned to the Leviathan, a large ecosystem of creatures that serves as an airship.

This novel was a memorable read. The characters were unique, and the setting was original. At some points I could almost feel and see through the characters’ eyes. I could draw resemblances between the fictional events in the book and the factual events of real life. There were some problems with the book, but not enough to stop me from enjoying it. Overall, this book was a great read. I would give it a solid 4/5.

-Jacob Chon, grade 9

 

Find this book in our catalog: Leviathan

Call Number: YA FIC WESTERFELD,S

464 pages