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4 out of 4 stars
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Working in a mining company for so long made Geo decide to finally seek some adventure. Together with his friends, Geo goes on a camping trip to a place where he used to camp all the time when he was a kid. But when a much-anticipated vacation turns sour, Geo and his friends must do everything to survive and find their way back home.
Topher Allen’s Geo is a middle-grade sci-fi book that tells the story of the main character’s enthralling adventures. What I like the most about the book is the imaginative world-building. The book paces slowly in the beginning, taking its time to build the bizarre yet interesting world characterized by eccentric architecture and fantastical creatures. The main character himself is a marvel because he is not human but a rock with human characteristics.
The protagonist shows significant character development from which young readers can learn. Friendship and camaraderie are themes that are common throughout the narrative. Aside from that, the book also explores subtle topics that cater to a mature audience. There are underlying sentiments about navigating adulthood, entering the workforce, and overcoming trauma.
Action scenes are abundant in this book. Despite being a book that primarily caters to a younger audience, it is evident how much thought went into creating this story. I like an adventure story that does not follow a strictly linear narrative, where goals are easily obtained and problems are instantly solved. This book is an exhilarating roller-coaster ride where the characters experience one catastrophe that only leads to another. I could only imagine how this book could make a good animated film because the narrative did not run out of exciting action scenes to provide the reader. The writing is decent but not the most excellent. The description is sufficient enough for one to visualize the world. However, the author has a tendency to write one-liner action scenes, which reminds me of a script from a play. This is a minor aspect that I dislike about the book, something that does not really impact my overall enjoyment of it.
I also did not see any errors, so the editing must be excellent. The premise is unique and intriguing, something middle-grade readers can easily indulge themselves in. The range of meaningful themes this book conveys and the exciting adventure plot make this book deserving of a rating of 4 out of 4 stars. I would recommend this to young readers between the ages of eleven and thirteen who like imaginative adventure stories.
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Geo
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