Daniel Coldstar #1

August 1, 2017

Gr 4-7-Daniel's mind has been "wiped clean." He remembers language and numbers, but he has no memory of other portions of his previous life. He has returned to the Racks where the "grubs" are. They remember him, but he has no memory of them. Enslaved by Overseers, the grubs fend for themselves as they dig in a relic mine searching for a civilization of long ago. Set in outer space in 4182, the book starts out with vivid descriptions of its characters, including Nails, a grub who has dirty fingernails growing out of his scalp where his hair should be. Along with Daniel's action-packed journey, Pavlou offers up interesting themes on truth, power, and wisdom. Forty-four short, fast-paced chapters make for page-turning action that is sure to zip readers through this zany outer space adventure. A glossary is included to help with the unusual author-created vocabulary. VERDICT Sure to be a hit for sci-fi readers who love a wild romp; a strong choice for middle grade adventure shelves.-Helen Foster James, University of California at San Diego

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 15, 2017
The abducted children from hundreds of worlds are being held prisoner on a destroyed planet and forced to hunt for technological relics for an evil overlord. Whether it is the alien Overseers or the insect cyborg Nightwatchers, violence is a constant for the "grubs." But one boy, Daniel Coldstar, refuses to be cowed. During an expedition into the mines, he discovers an ancient relic capable of defeating their captors. But without a map and with only spotty memories, finding a way out proves difficult. When Daniel meets the ultimate enemy, who uses lies to control his minions, Daniel must figure out how to make both his mind and his heart believe the truth. The fates of his friends and the known universe depend upon it. Confusing worldbuilding and a too-large cast hamstring this fast-paced and explosive series debut. Short chapters with cliffhanger endings will keep the pages turning, but stilted dialogue, spotty descriptive details, and cliched villains keep this innovative adventure from hitting its stride. Grotesqueries, such as characters with fingernails instead of hair and no pupils, make up the human diversity in this future setting. A glossary of unfamiliar terms is included; it reveals some of the politics that underlie Pavlou's world. Outrageously creative but often confusing. (Science fiction. 9-13)

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