Above the Black: #1 Sky's End written by Marc J. Gregson, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Sky's End by Marc J Gregson is making a big impression on the book buzz world and awards chatter. This book plunges readers into a gripping world of competition, revenge, and survival. In this fast-paced narrative, we follow sixteen-year-old Conrad, an exiled youth living under the oppressive Meritocracy. Refusing to become the heir to his uncle, who has a notorious reputation for murder, Conrad's life takes a tragic turn when colossal sky serpents invade Holmstead, devouring his ailing mother. In a desperate bid to save his sister, he enters the Selection of the Twelve Trades. Conrad's journey leads him into Hunter, the most dangerous trade, where he faces rigorous training and the brutal Gauntlet, all while grappling with manipulative peers and the haunting memories of his past. As he navigates through this dystopian landscape filled with political intrigue and social commentary, Conrad uncovers whispers of rebellion and the harsh realities of his world. While the book offers a riveting adventure reminiscent of Enders Game, it presents a critique of societal hierarchies and the struggles of the underprivileged. The characters, however, have received mixed reviews; some readers feel they lack depth and complexity. Despite this, Conrad emerges as a relatable protagonist, showcasing growth amidst adversity. The action-packed sequences, combined with a unique blend of fantastical and scientific elements, create a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Sky's End is a captivating start to the Above the Black trilogy, making it a perfect addition to any young adult library collection. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Sky's End offers opportunities for discussions on themes such as revenge, resilience, and social inequality, prompting students to reflect on the societal structures within their own lives. Additionally, the book can serve as a springboard for exploring genres like dystopian fiction and fantasy, encouraging students to engage with similar titles and analyze their narrative structures and themes. Librarians can organize book clubs or reading groups, utilizing Sky's End to promote critical thinking and collaborative discussions among students. This book can also inspire creative writing projects, where students can develop their own characters and worlds, fostering their imagination and storytelling skills. There are some violent scenes in this book, but not unusual for dystopian books with aggressive dragon-like creatures.  I like the emphasis on the loyalty and love to family.  It has good examples of the bonds of friendship and how it can be strenghtened through a shared experience (like a quest). A great addition to a high school library collection.