The Black Stars

September 15, 2014
Can Earth Space Command cadet Mason Stark safeguard a shaky intergalactic peace? Mason and his fellow cadets brokered peace between humans and Tremist forces, but not before the Earth was snatched from our solar system and deposited near the Tremist homeworld (The Planet Thieves, 2013). Now the grand admiral of the ESC has heard rumors that Tremists are working on a weapon that violates the treaty. Since Mason has a standing invitation to study at the Rhadgast school, an academy for Tremist soldiers, the admiral wants Mason and his best friend, Tom, to spy for the ESC. It will be dangerous, but Mason's interested, as a Rhadgast told him he might learn the truth of what happened to his parents at the school. In the sometimes-hostile environment of a new school on a new planet, mysteries abound...and one might hold the key to fending off the impending invasion of the monstrous Fangborn. This sequel is Harry Potter in sci-fi robes. Boy seen as hero is thrust into a new school in an unfamiliar culture and sorted into a section of the school by a mysterious ritual, and he investigates when students begin to disappear. The fine mystery/adventure breaks down at the unsatisfying conclusion, which attempts to set up a third volume. Mason's an interesting character, but those around him don't develop much. It's good fluff, but it doesn't satisfy the dire need for well-wrought SF for preteens. (Science fiction. 9-12)

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November 1, 2014

Gr 5-7-In The Planet Thieves (Tor/Forge/Starscape, 2013), Mason stopped the war between humans and Tremist, and received a tantalizing invitation from one of the Tremist's semi-supernatural Rhadghast warriors: "Come and find us, if you want to learn the truth about your parents." Now, ESC (Earth Space Command) leaders are sending Mason and his friend Tom to discover the truth about a secret Tremist project at the Rhadghast school. No sooner have the duo arrived than they encounter a host of difficulties: attacking vegetation, rival factions in the school, bullies, and a string of terrifying disappearances. Full-page illustrations are sprinkled throughout this fun, fast-paced space adventure. The emphasis is on action, rather than character development or philosophy, but the focus on reconciliation and teamwork is heartening. Mason is appealing in his blend of individualism, leadership, and a certain cocky charm. Give this to admirers of Captain Kirk, or to science fiction fans not yet ready for Orson Scott Card's Ender's Game.-Rachel Anne Mencke, St. Matthew's Parish School, Pacific Palisades, CA

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 1, 2014
Grades 4-6 Mason Stark is the center of a media frenzy after his daring escapades in The Planet Thieves (2013). Now in his first year at Earth Space Command Academy II, Mason is the target of jealous older students, and the constant fighting racks up demerits until he is on the verge of expulsion. In the nick of time, Mason is sent on a covert mission to infiltrate the Tremist school for warriors and investigate a secret weapon. Meanwhile, he seeks out long-lost relatives and relies on true-blue friends, facing down slavering villains along the way. Outlandish gizmos and snappy, slangy dialogue go with the territory in this comic booklike story.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)