3 out of 4 stars
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Cassie has just moved with her family to Franklin, Florida. Having moved a lot, she's used to not being anywhere long enough to make friends. This time she's caught off guard, though; Aiden, a boy that somewhat resembles a Q-Tip, befriends her from the first moment.
Cassie finds out that she is related to one of the founders of the town, and the two start to look into the history of her family. Not all is as it seems in this ancient family, however. There are skeletons in the closet. It's up to Aiden and Cassie to bring these skeletons to the light of day. After all, some mysteries are meant to be revealed.
Milky Way Rising by Sharon Keller Johnson is a young adult book that is part historical fiction part ghost story.The characters are fun and unique with something to teach us all. Cassie and Aiden are dreamers while her mother and sister are more practical. I found this to be a pleasant blend. Then there are the ladies from the nursing home. Full of history, they have lessons to teach young Cassie and Aiden. All of the characters were nicely developed and well rounded.
The story started somewhat slowly, and the pace remained relaxed for most of the book. Those who are looking for suspense around every corner might want to skip this novel. Those that enjoy the author taking the time to develop a good mystery would enjoy the leisurely way the plot unfolds.
The main character Cassie is obsessed with Star Trek. Not just any Star Trek mind you, but the original series with Kirk and Spock. Being that this is a young adult series, I'm not sure that's wise. How well do teenagers these days know of this first Star Trek? Ms. Johnson does remedy the problem slightly by adding the show’s characters to the glossary in the back of the book. In spite of that, I fear that children will stop reading at the multiple mentions to this show when they don't understand.
The characters’ lives also have this unrealistic way of working out quite easily. Aiden and his father don't get along all that well. Conveniently, they go to counseling; it's sunshine and roses, again. There is a bully in the school who suddenly changes her ways. Miraculous! Sadly, events in the real world don't often have a fairy tale ending. This has the potential to confuse young adults or leave them thinking there is something wrong with their families and relationships.
Notwithstanding that, it was a light, enjoyable read. The ghostly element is not extremely scary and suitable for younger audiences. I, therefore, rate Milky Way Rising 3 out of 4 stars. I recommend the story to all who are looking for a lighthearted, meandering mystery with a small ghostly element.
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Milky Way Rising
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