Section Widget
Categories Widget (Show All)
Recent Articles
Reviewed by Slushrunner
Publisher:Paragon Press
Year Published: 2010
With most YA spec fiction authors, when I hear they have a new book out, I get a little uneasy. How will the book read *this* time? Usually YA authors make me wish they would write more carefully, not faster.
But there are exceptions. One is Tamora Pierce. When her books hit the United States, I'm the first in line either at B&N or the library, depending on finances.
Another is Douglas E. Richards.
The third installment in the Prometheus Project series is out, and, boy, did I dance when I got my copy. That was an overbooked weekend, what with family events and work, so it actually took me over 48 hours to finish the book. Then it's taken me over 48 *days* to figure out how to review it without spoilers.
The short version: GO BUY IT!
The longer version: In "Prometheus Project: Stranded", Douglas E. Richards once again shows a writing ability that recalls the masters of science fiction:
* Smart teenage protagonists who really act like smart teenagers, rather than like adults or like Wesley Crusher.
* Scientific concepts, explained simply and elegantly, that play central roles in the story, and
* An apparently straight-forward plot that somehow includes puzzles anyway.
The Prometheus Project is a government installation investigating an alien city deep underground. Portals in the city lead to other planets, and half the team is stranded on an alien world where the local predators have suddenly gone from ignoring humans to hunting them down with prejudice. And back home, a mastermind has gotten hold of an alien device and appears to be intent on destroying the project and taking over the world.
Widely read readers may recognize echoes of Harry Harrison's Deathworld, but I can reassure you that its not the same cause that leads to a similar effect. And, like his earlier books, Richards includes some totally fair puzzles that you have enough information to solve, if you want to. Then again, if that's not your bag, you can just enjoy a fun ride.
YA readers may also enjoy the gentle romantic interest and the two new teen characters - sisters with their own fascinating scientific experiments going.
All in all, a worthy work. And two words for the Author:
WRITE MORE!
Slushrunner
Get your copy of The Prometheus Project: Stranded by Douglas E. Richards
Recent Forum Posts
Recent Blog Posts
Recent Article Comments Widget
Sponsors
Movie Review: The Avengers
The Avengers, PG-13 (2012)
142 minutes
Starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Tom Hiddleston, Clark Gregg, Stellan Skarsgård, Samuel L. Jackson, Gwyneth Paltrow
Directed by Joss Whedon
Rating: (4.5/5)
My son isn't anywhere near the comic book geek I was when I was his age, but we were both excited to see The Avengers. We'd seen all the prequels and enjoyed them, although I think I enjoyed