Leviathan

Title: Leviathan
Author: Scott Westerfeld

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Genre/Format: Science Fiction -- Steam Punk


This is a Woodlynde Library book

1. Why I picked up this book.

The cover is gorgeous, the author is well known, and more importantly, the cover indicated that I may have found a book I had long been looking for; a Steam Punk novel suitable for Young Adult readers!

2. Why I finished this book.

It is a great example of why I love to dip into Young Adult literature. It is a tightly written books, many better that some to the adult writing in the same genre. Steam Punk for the un-initiated is a rising sub-genre of Science Fiction, nearly 20 years old; it is swiftly becoming a favorite among teen and young adult fantasy/science fiction fans. This story combines many of the genre's major themes. It takes place in an alternative timeline which features two opposing technologies. It features a strong female character who represents the British "Darwinist" who are able to genetically manipulate life forms, and an equally strong male character representing the Austro Hungarian "Clanker" society based on steam driven automatons and clockwork machines. The adventure is kicked off by the assassination of the Archduke and his wife, draws these two characters together both literally and figuratively. Unlike most adult novels, this book features some very nifty maps and periodic illustrations. Shortly after I finished this book it won Australia's Best Young Adult Novel Award!

3. Who I would give this book to, and why.

Anyone who loves Science Fiction and or Fantasy, and of course fans of Steam Punk from middle school through adult!