In the Sky
Year: 2021
Author: Joseph D. Slater
Length: 456 pages
As an author, I am jealous of Joseph D. Slater’s fantasy adventure, In the Sky. I’ve read a lot of these kinds of books, but the first three chapters legitimately hooked me with their rich and well-developed main characters. I wish I could write a hook this engaging. Following three girls who are each on a journey of discovery, I was immediately drawn in by the overly confident pirate captain, the skilled dragon rider, and the sneaky cook’s assistant. The world-building was so thoroughly interesting that I couldn’t wait to read more.
I applaud Slater’s ability to craft a unique world where sky pirates do battle with government-trained dragons—and all through the lenses of these three girls. Every detail was well thought out and brought this imaginative universe vividly into my mind. Of course, sometimes these details felt a little too gory for a book that could easily be for upper middle grade kids. Sure, it brought some weight to the battle sequences to know that people could die in gruesome ways, but I have a feeling some of this comes from the author’s previous experience writing horror books.
Overall, I definitely recommend people read this book. However, my one gripe has to do with the twist in the third act. The more I thought about it, the less any of it made sense. In fact, it almost undid a lot of the logic of the events leading up to it. Still, even this weakness doesn’t negate the fact that I want more from this world. I want a sequel with these girls going out to fight the government and take down the emperor! Until then, the memories from this book will live rent free in my head.
A vividly imaginative world with great main characters and a single glaring plot hole, I give In the Sky 4.0 stars out of 5.
