Book Review: ‘Above World’ by Jenn Reese

“Above World” by Jenn Reese is the first book in a new series for young adults and middle school aged children. The world is one ravaged by over population, greed, and technology. The population have been genetically and technically altered to survive in a variety of previously inhospitable terrains. Thirteen-year-old Aluna lives in the water, with a special shell that helps her breath and the promise of growing a tail after a traditional coming of age rite.

However, Aluna is headstrong and her community are in danger, as the breathing shells are starting to fail and people are dying. When the elders refuse to address or even acknowledge the danger Aluna forgoes the rite and sets off to save her community. Her best friend Hoku follows her and joins her dangerous quest to seek answers about the failing technology. All they have are Aluna’s fighting skills and determination and Hoku’s tinkering technology skills to keep them safe. They travel on the previously feared above world to seek their answers, and find out that the world is much more complicated than they expected. In a world were people can alter their very bodies, with machines or genetics, danger is everywhere and it is only friendship that remains true.

“Above World” beautifully blends fantasy and science fiction in a dystopian world that is not all that far fetched. Mankind has separated itself into distinct groups, divided by culture, and the body alterations and technology that they use to survive in extreme environments. There are societies that resemble mermaids, harpies, centaurs, kelpies, and creatures for which we have no words. Sadly; I can say that with our current climbing population, corporate greed, and technological advances that the world Reese has created here could become reality. Aluna is a stubborn, strong, and devoted heroine. She is aware of her flaws, and the flaws of those around her, but still tries to do the best for the whole. Even when her own family seems to be disappointed with some of her choices. Hoku is a devoted friend, and I was glad to see such a strong friendship in a novel for tweens and teens that did not go for the easy route of best friends that become more. Hoku and Aluna are supportive of each other, can tease each other, and deeply care about each other but feel nothing but friendship. I will send out a slight spoiler, and let you know that romance does arise in this book, but it is not between the two friends. The other friendships that they forge on their journey, and the discovers that they make, are the true heart of “Above World.

I recommend “Above World” to children from around 11 up through adults. The world building and characters are both solid and believable. Aluna’s emotions, actions, and motivation are all relatable for anyone that has felt that they are not appreciated. Frankly, who has not felt that way at some point. There are no scenes with romance that might be deemed inappropriate, there is nothing heavier than nervous hand holding and perhaps a kiss. The story is heart wrenching and heart warming at the same time, and leaves you satisfied at the end while still wanting to know what comes next. I am glad that the story will continue on and look forward to reading more about Aluna and the adventures she has yet to face.


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