Publication Date: 30 July 2024
Genre: YA Dystopian
Book Description:
The plot is engaging, with a well-paced journey that introduces various challenges and adversaries as the teens navigate this unfamiliar terrain. The contrast between the regimented life in Cloud’s Rest and the wild, unpredictable nature of the ground is compelling, though it could have benefited from deeper exploration of both worlds. The tribes and creatures the group encounters are intriguing, but there’s a sense that much more could be uncovered in future installments or with more detailed storytelling.
When it comes to character development, the teens are defined more by their roles and physical descriptions than by distinct personalities or growth throughout the narrative. Toby, as the de facto leader, shows some initiative, but the rest of the group—especially Maria and Justice—could have been fleshed out more fully to create a stronger emotional connection with the reader. Branson, on the other hand, stands out as a character with more depth, particularly as his role evolves towards the end of the story.
Dialogue within the book reflects the formal upbringing of the teens in their rigid society, but at times it felt stilted and could have used more variety to better differentiate the characters. The writing is accessible, with minimal graphic content, making it a suitable read for the YA audience. The action scenes are well-executed, and the inventive use of the teens’ makeshift weapons adds a layer of excitement to their encounters.
Overall, while Sky High delivers a solid dystopian adventure with an interesting premise, it leaves some areas underdeveloped. The world Breedlove has created is rich with potential, but I found myself wanting more—more exploration of the sky-high cities, more insight into the various tribes and more depth in the characters’ personal journeys. Nonetheless, it was an enjoyable read that set the stage for what could be a much larger and more complex story in future books.
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