Title: Leviathan
Author: Scott Westerfeld
Summary: The first book in a new series by the author of Uglies is a fast-paced alternate history of World War I. The nations of Europe are divided: The Clankers favor mechanical, steam-powered fighting machines and the Darwinists use ‘fabricated’ living beasts created from manipulated DNA as their weapons.
On the eve of war, we meet Aleksandar, a headstrong prince sent into hiding after his parent’s assassination, and Deryn, an ambitious girl who has disguised herself as a boy in order to join the air corps. When Deryn’s ship, the immense blue whale called Leviathan, crash lands near Aleksandar’s hideaway a fantastic adventure begins. This exhilarating story is great for all readers, and is a terrific introduction to the alternate history and steampunk genres.
Who will like this book?: Fans of this popular author. People who like alternate histories and gadget-filled fantasy.
If you like this, try this: The sequel to this book, Behemoth. The Mortal Instruments series by Philip Reeve. The Temeraire books by Naomi Novik.
Recommended by: Nicole, Teen Librarian