First Impression: Intergalactic, time traveling fun middle graders who love an adventure series.
Labyrinthia by Ann Birdgenaw is the second book in the established, Black Hole series. With minimal scene setting, the story wastes no time getting stuck into the action, whilst recapping some information from the earlier book that explains the ‘black hole’ radio. Whilst readers may have a curiosity about what has happened previously, lack of knowledge does not impact this tale. It can easily be read as a standalone without impacting the enjoyment one receives.
I was lucky enough to receive the full series so far. I thank Ann Birdgenaw for their generosity and offer up this honest review.
The adventure opens with young Hawk tasked with sorting through his late grandfather’s belongings. He decides to get rid of almost everything but avoids the box he wants to keep. However, Hawk is drawn to the box when he finds himself paired with the school bully, Mikey, for a science project. Wanting to get started Hawk invites Mikey to ‘mission control;’ a space at his house where he spends time together with his friends, Matt, and Celeste. When Mikey disappears, the friends have no choice but to follow him across the galaxy to bring him home. Hampered by alien slave owners, can the friends tame the hellion and endow the slaves and Mikey with their freedom? Can they make it home unscathed?
Labyrinthia is a neat story. Everything falls into place and is easily explained as, and when, it occurs. This is partially owing to previous adventures the children went on that found them embracing specific abilities. The rest is down to the way the story and the obstacles are crafted. The children conveniently possess the right knowledge, and the right skills to tackle everything they encounter. Consequently, the story moves at a fast pace and reaches a swift resolution.
As middle grade books go, this one provides an interesting plot presented at the right pace to maintain a child’s interest, however, it is unlikely to appease older readers. The language is simple enough for confident young readers to digest without the need for lengthy definitions or adult intervention. It also shares the children’s political views in relation to slavery and child labor. As a bonus, the series format gives fans access to a range of adventures repeatedly whilst getting to know each of the heroes. For these reasons, I’d recommend this book as a 4-star read for children interested in space, aliens, and time travel.
Quick Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / PG Rated
Have your say: What are your middle grade fantasy recommendations? Drop a comment below to start interacting with the Papergirl Community.
Disclaimer: Clicking on links may direct you to Papergirl branded products, or Papergirl endorsed items for which there is an affiliation. It will not affect your purchases or prices in any way, but it may mean that Papergirl earns a small commission from any successful sales.
Wondering what to review next, consider:
- The Folk Smuggler by Vid Weeks
- Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harisson
- Knocktopia, Secret of the Mother Lode by Hunter Malone
Leave a Reply