Review of “First Light,” by Rebecca Stead

“First Light,” by Rebecca Stead is a debut science fiction novel about a group of people living far beneath the ice of Greenland.

The science fiction story has two main characters whose enthralling story will pull the reader through 328 pages of mystery, and action.

For Peter the opportunity to travel to Greenland with his parents is a dream come true. Not only will he get to skip school for six weeks, but now he finally has a chance to share in the adventures that his father experiences day to day in his job as a scientist that studies glaciers and global warming. But once he and his parents arrive in Greenland, Peter starts to get the uncomfortable feeling that perhaps his parents had a hidden agenda in their trip. Not only is his mother acting strangely, but Peter is beginning to experience strange visions that seem to be guiding him to some secret hidden in the icy expanse beyond the camp.

The second main character is Thea. She is part of an extraordinary group of people whose improved genetics gave them gifts that led others to persecute them relentlessly. Nearly driven to extinction, her people only found piece when they formed a unique habitat deep beneath the ice of Greenland. Here they live a simple life made possible by their special gifts and marvelous inventions. But Thea dreams of life on the surface, where she could see the stars at night and finally understand what a horizon is. Peter and Thea’s separate searches will unite them in an adventure that will completely change life for Thea’s people.

“First Light,” is an excellent book that simply begs for a sequel. Rebecca Stead’s world is unquestionably innovative. The characters are beautifully handled, and the plot’s impeccable precision gives the book a solid feel that I really appreciated. “First Light” is a very impressive book, and after reading I will be watching for more books by Rebecca Stead in the future. I would recommend that you read “First Light” for its great plot and solid science fiction theme.

If you have already read “First Light” or if you just want to find out more about this great science fiction book then you should read an interview with Rebecca Stead in which she discusses “First Light” and how she wrote it.

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