Title: Monkeyboy
Author: S Shane Thomas
Genre: Science Fiction
Format: novel
Series: LARC1 Anki Legacies
I received a free Advanced Reader Copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed.
In brief:
Monkeyboy is the first in the LARC1 series which is written for tweens and young adults. Despite not reading much YA at present, I found this adventure a fun read. With the usual adult characters relegated to the background, it was interesting to see the kids explore Nibiru and deal with the Anki technology with rather more insight than expected. As usual, Thomas’ universe and humour drew me in. Read my review on Thomas’ Distant Origins here.
The Whole story:
Han was born a regular Liberty monkey on Nibiru. Swallowing an Anki stone has turned him into a boy with some amazing powers and a keen interest in the martial arts. But there’s much he doesn’t remember about his life before becoming the adoptive son of Pringar, the Anki mayor of the LARC1 colony. When his strange origins catch up with him, it’s up to Han and his equally gifted best friends Wisp, Cray and Sita to save Nibiru and the solar system from a tyranny.
What I loved about this story:
In Monkeyboy, the kids are kids with universal attitudes and behavior, though very mature at times. Their reactions are familiar if you’ve been around earthlings of the same age. The plot themes are relevant to both young and adult readers. Thomas manages to capture the enthusiasm, energy and creativity of adolescents who are beginning to grapple with the larger implications and consequences of actions from and around them. I think most kids would love to be a part of this gang of four. I know I would have at that age!
What I thought could be better:
There are times when things get a little too heavy for me during the fight scenes and some of the themes are a little on the dark side. So, for the younger sensitive readers (and parents) you might want to discuss some scenes with them, especially those with the Rakshasa.
So what did I learn from this whole experience?
Yep, I’m definitely a fan of Thomas’ Anki Legacies! I got to learn a little bit more about martial arts too. And was reminded once again that some of our greatest philosophies can come out of the mouths of children.
Rating: 5/5
I Recommend to: Kids and adults tiring of the DC world and seeking something new, Kung-Fu Panda fans and Naruto fans.
LeennasCreativeBox 