Merschel, Michael Revenge of the Star Survivors 309 pages.
Holiday House, 2017. $17.95. Language: G, Mature Content: G; Violence: G.
Clark Sherman is miffed that his parents, aka the
commanders, moved his family to an alien planet, aka new town. From the moment
he steps foot into his new middle school he is under attack. It all starts with
the bully trio who harasses him relentlessly. Then the guidance counselor, who
should be on his side, messes up his schedule and puts him in remedial math,
two PE classes, and independent study in the library. The worst is yet to come
when he meets the military style principal who is out to get him. Just when it
appears that the alien forces, aka students and teachers, are going to win the
attack, two comrades, aka potential friends, come out of the shadows and
together form a plan to bring down the bad guys at Festus Middle School.
This story is told from the perspective of a teen boy who
likes to compare his everyday challenges to those in his favorite TV show, Star
Survivors. He’s your classic sci-fi nerd. At times the author goes overboard
when writing in the “space explorer under attack” voice. At other times, he
doesn’t use the voice at all and it comes across as inconsistent. However, the
overall effect is clever and catchy. Major themes include surviving at a new
school, making friends, popular vs. unpopular kids, bullying, and defeating the
bad guys. Clark takes everything in stride and tells his story with humor. This
is a book for kids who like to read and prefer books with humor.
EL, MS – ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Valerie McEnroe, Media
Specialist
LABELS – elementary upper, middle school, advisable, get off
my back, school daze
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