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The Strike Series #1
Strike: The Hero From The Sky
Tobin Lloyd's life is perfect: he's a senior at Bridgton High, he's one of the funniest kids in school, and his only worry is whether or not his latest prank is going to result in yet another detention.
But when he wakes up in the world of Capricious, a place where superheroes are real and attacks by super-villains are just another hassle of living in the city, all of that changes. Suddenly, Tobin's last year of high school is not going as he expected.
Far from home and pretty sure he's gone insane, Tobin must join a strange group of companions (including a beer-drinking dog and a genius, three-foot-tall robot) as he desperately tries to find a way back to Earth. However, that may be even harder than Tobin knows: a mysterious super-villain named Vincent Harris has big plans for the planet Earth...and Tobin is the only person standing in his way.
A carefree, C-student class clown is the world's last hope? Yikes.
Full of action and humor, STRIKE: THE HERO FROM THE SKY is the perfect novel for anyone who loves a good adventure.
But when he wakes up in the world of Capricious, a place where superheroes are real and attacks by super-villains are just another hassle of living in the city, all of that changes. Suddenly, Tobin's last year of high school is not going as he expected.
Far from home and pretty sure he's gone insane, Tobin must join a strange group of companions (including a beer-drinking dog and a genius, three-foot-tall robot) as he desperately tries to find a way back to Earth. However, that may be even harder than Tobin knows: a mysterious super-villain named Vincent Harris has big plans for the planet Earth...and Tobin is the only person standing in his way.
A carefree, C-student class clown is the world's last hope? Yikes.
Full of action and humor, STRIKE: THE HERO FROM THE SKY is the perfect novel for anyone who loves a good adventure.
205 pages, Paperback
First published December 27, 2011
34 people are currently reading
1467 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 25, 2012
This book was electrifyingly adventurous.
You're pulled in from the very first line. The opening is somewhat mysterious, and grabs you, making you want to find out more.
After the initial pull, the story gives slight background of Tobin's life, that of a typical teenager with a bad case of senioritis. Tobin doesn't seem to know exactly what he wants to do in life, but a phone call demanding that he come help a distressed woman changes all of that. Tobin is thrust into a confusing world of strange creatures and superheroes. The real question is, will he be able to handle it all?
One of the aspects that I was most pleased with in this story is that the character dialogue in this story is very realistic and flows smoothly. In some of my latest reviews this has been a sticking point, so I was very happy to read "real characters" The language isn't forced or stiff. The kids use abbreviations, and slang.
The plot flows together nicely. Events happen at a quick pace, like you would expect from an adventure, but not so fast as it doesn't seem real. And in a story about superheroes, you've got to keep it real enough for it not to be campy. I originally thought it might end up being cheesy, but it's not. The fact that Tobin is real makes you feel for him, connect with him. It's the fact that he is a kid with doubts and hesitations. A kid who doesn't just jump into the role of a superhero like it's the normal thing to do, because of the cool super powers.All these things are what keeps the story grounded.
While I was reading, I kept thinking to myself that this was somehow like a live action comic book without all the cool pictures of course. But, through Wood's descriptive imagery, I could see the pictures that might accompany it in my head, which is awesome. I love being carried so far into a story that I can imagine it for myself.
One of the elements that really helps draw the reader in is the authors use of color. I'm a real stickler for details like this to help bring me into the story. When Tobin first arrives in Capricious, he wakes up to find himself lying on blue grass, under a yellow sky, with pink clouds in it. And he's being chased by a blood-red dinosaur. In one of the action sequences, they're surrounded by purple fire. I think it's the fact that Wood uses unusual colors for these objects that helps the events resonate. Clouds, grass, sky these are all normal things, but the colors help carry you away into this alternate world.
While there was great action, and realistic dialogue, not everything was perfect. I was slightly disappointed by the character development. Orion and Tobin, two of the main characters were really well developed. I felt that the rest of the supporting characters weren't developed enough. Interestingly, the characters with the more unique names I found myself wondering about their role in the story, and if they were truly key players. I'm hoping that this will be addressed in the next books in the series.
Overall, this was an excellent read. If you're looking for a great adventure with a superhero twist, this is it. I'm excited to read the next books from this author.
*I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
You're pulled in from the very first line. The opening is somewhat mysterious, and grabs you, making you want to find out more.
After the initial pull, the story gives slight background of Tobin's life, that of a typical teenager with a bad case of senioritis. Tobin doesn't seem to know exactly what he wants to do in life, but a phone call demanding that he come help a distressed woman changes all of that. Tobin is thrust into a confusing world of strange creatures and superheroes. The real question is, will he be able to handle it all?
One of the aspects that I was most pleased with in this story is that the character dialogue in this story is very realistic and flows smoothly. In some of my latest reviews this has been a sticking point, so I was very happy to read "real characters" The language isn't forced or stiff. The kids use abbreviations, and slang.
The plot flows together nicely. Events happen at a quick pace, like you would expect from an adventure, but not so fast as it doesn't seem real. And in a story about superheroes, you've got to keep it real enough for it not to be campy. I originally thought it might end up being cheesy, but it's not. The fact that Tobin is real makes you feel for him, connect with him. It's the fact that he is a kid with doubts and hesitations. A kid who doesn't just jump into the role of a superhero like it's the normal thing to do, because of the cool super powers.All these things are what keeps the story grounded.
While I was reading, I kept thinking to myself that this was somehow like a live action comic book without all the cool pictures of course. But, through Wood's descriptive imagery, I could see the pictures that might accompany it in my head, which is awesome. I love being carried so far into a story that I can imagine it for myself.
One of the elements that really helps draw the reader in is the authors use of color. I'm a real stickler for details like this to help bring me into the story. When Tobin first arrives in Capricious, he wakes up to find himself lying on blue grass, under a yellow sky, with pink clouds in it. And he's being chased by a blood-red dinosaur. In one of the action sequences, they're surrounded by purple fire. I think it's the fact that Wood uses unusual colors for these objects that helps the events resonate. Clouds, grass, sky these are all normal things, but the colors help carry you away into this alternate world.
While there was great action, and realistic dialogue, not everything was perfect. I was slightly disappointed by the character development. Orion and Tobin, two of the main characters were really well developed. I felt that the rest of the supporting characters weren't developed enough. Interestingly, the characters with the more unique names I found myself wondering about their role in the story, and if they were truly key players. I'm hoping that this will be addressed in the next books in the series.
Overall, this was an excellent read. If you're looking for a great adventure with a superhero twist, this is it. I'm excited to read the next books from this author.
*I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
May 14, 2012
Tobin Lloyd is a 17 year old practical joker, who thinks not of how to save our country, but how to keep out of trouble for his latest practical joke. His buddies, Jennifer Robins and Chad Fernandes, have had his back for years but its senior year, time to look to the future, think about being an adult. But Tobin's still far too busy having fun to worry about what lies ahead, except for maybe being a game show host, that'd be cool.
Imagine then waking up in an alien land, on an alien planet, with alien buddies AND if that's not enough for you, being told of alien super heroes and alien super villains.
How can Tobin and his friends, both old and new, cope with all the changes. And just what is so important about Tobin that makes everyone want him on their side?
A great action, fantasy, YA romp with overtures of super heroes and super villains. I would love to see this as a graphic novel!
I received this through a libraryThing giveaway
Imagine then waking up in an alien land, on an alien planet, with alien buddies AND if that's not enough for you, being told of alien super heroes and alien super villains.
How can Tobin and his friends, both old and new, cope with all the changes. And just what is so important about Tobin that makes everyone want him on their side?
A great action, fantasy, YA romp with overtures of super heroes and super villains. I would love to see this as a graphic novel!
I received this through a libraryThing giveaway
November 14, 2014
Wow! What a great read! I thoroughly enjoyed each and every page!
The idea is really unique and very well written. Once you start, the story draws you in and I for one did not want to put it down!!
It's fast passed and flows effortlessly! The author's humour really shines through in places making you both smile and laugh, but in other places there is an ominous air of foreboding, like a dark cloud that you know the Hero is inevitably going to face!
And best of all, it leaves you wanting more!
A really great fantasy adventure for anyone! Really highly recommended for anyone in need of a little superhero action!!
The idea is really unique and very well written. Once you start, the story draws you in and I for one did not want to put it down!!
It's fast passed and flows effortlessly! The author's humour really shines through in places making you both smile and laugh, but in other places there is an ominous air of foreboding, like a dark cloud that you know the Hero is inevitably going to face!
And best of all, it leaves you wanting more!
A really great fantasy adventure for anyone! Really highly recommended for anyone in need of a little superhero action!!
March 29, 2012
I found the book pleasantly surprising, I don't typically read from a male character side. The story pulled me in right away, I lost all track of time reading it late last night, had to finish it early this am. I liked the characters, they are well written and you find yourself rooting for the good guys. It's a quick pace story that doesn't have all the long boring build up that other books have. I think that's what I like most was that it kept me wanting to know more. I look forward to future books in the series.
Want to read
June 8, 2012Just won this book from the Goodreads First Reads giveaway! Looking forward to reading it when it comes in!!
September 17, 2017
Not kindle unlimited, seems to be permafree, the others seem to be ku.
Tobin Lloyd's life is perfect: he's a senior at Bridgton High, he's one of the funniest kids in school, and his only worry is whether or not his latest prank is going to result in yet another detention. But when he wakes up in the world of Capricious, a place where superheroes are real and attacks by super-villains are just another hassle of living in the city, all of that changes. Suddenly, Tobin's last year of high school is not going as he expected. Far from home and pretty sure he's gone insane, Tobin must join a strange group of companions (including a beer-drinking dog and a genius, three-foot-tall robot) as he desperately tries to find a way back to Earth. However, that may be even harder than Tobin knows: a mysterious super-villain named Vincent Harris has big plans for the planet Earth...and Tobin is the only person standing in his way.A carefree, C-student class clown is the world's last hope? Yikes.
THE STRIKE TRILOGY is the collected edition of STRIKE: THE HERO FROM THE SKY, STRIKE: DAWN OF THE DAYBREAKER, and the epic third book in the Strike series, STRIKE: THE RETURNING SUNRISE. Not included is #4 Strike: The Plague of Stars (The Strike Series, Book 4, so that is 4 individual books, plus a 3 pack with 1-3 in it.
Tobin Lloyd's life is perfect: he's a senior at Bridgton High, he's one of the funniest kids in school, and his only worry is whether or not his latest prank is going to result in yet another detention. But when he wakes up in the world of Capricious, a place where superheroes are real and attacks by super-villains are just another hassle of living in the city, all of that changes. Suddenly, Tobin's last year of high school is not going as he expected. Far from home and pretty sure he's gone insane, Tobin must join a strange group of companions (including a beer-drinking dog and a genius, three-foot-tall robot) as he desperately tries to find a way back to Earth. However, that may be even harder than Tobin knows: a mysterious super-villain named Vincent Harris has big plans for the planet Earth...and Tobin is the only person standing in his way.A carefree, C-student class clown is the world's last hope? Yikes.
THE STRIKE TRILOGY is the collected edition of STRIKE: THE HERO FROM THE SKY, STRIKE: DAWN OF THE DAYBREAKER, and the epic third book in the Strike series, STRIKE: THE RETURNING SUNRISE. Not included is #4 Strike: The Plague of Stars (The Strike Series, Book 4, so that is 4 individual books, plus a 3 pack with 1-3 in it.
July 24, 2018
Strange
That is the one word to describe this book. I am still not sure if I enjoyed it or not. It was different that's for sure, and as it's on ku I will read the next one.
That is the one word to describe this book. I am still not sure if I enjoyed it or not. It was different that's for sure, and as it's on ku I will read the next one.
July 12, 2020
Fun
Fun and interesting take on superheroes. Had to keep reading to get involved though. A bit unusual from other action books.
Fun and interesting take on superheroes. Had to keep reading to get involved though. A bit unusual from other action books.
August 19, 2020
Up couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed it. We need more people like Tobin in this world.
March 24, 2023
Has potential, but there is too much telling and not enough showing.
For my clean readers: mild violence, some language.
For my clean readers: mild violence, some language.
December 17, 2014
In the interest of full disclosure received this through a read-to-review give away.
That said, let's get on with the review. I'm a big fan of comicbooks and superhero stories. That's why I decided I wanted to give Strike a read. It's definitely my genre of choice and I actually like books better than comics so I like when authors give it a go at creating a really interesting, unique original character for print media. Tobin Lloyd, the main character of Strike, isn't a bad character. He just comes off as a bit cookie cutter to me. The goofy prankster who somehow avoids detention more often than not. Okay, I get it. I mean, it's actually nice to have a superhero whose not the stereotypical Peter Parker archetype but still. 'Pranksters' in YA Fiction just seem unrealistic to me half the time because after awhile any decent school would expel you. Anyway.
We don't stay in high school for very long. The book moves very quickly and throws you into the action pretty early on. And then it just doesn't really stop. I get that not every book needs to be 300-400 pages long and full of down time but it does kind of help with character development and world building. Strike - while a decent story - just moved really quick. I didn't really feel like I got to know the characters or the world. Sure, it was described to me but I didn't get as much of an opportunity to really understand what was going on or fully understand the underlying conflicts. That's why most authors choose to have a narrator who isn't initially from the world they are writing about? So they can explain things to the character and the reader at the same time?
I liked the characters, though, and wish more of them had been developed. I really did like Tobin and once we get rid of the stereotypical prankster kid we see on pre-teen TV shows you do find a pretty genuine, normal sort of guy shoved into extraordinary circumstances. It's a decent read all in all but it's pretty generic and stereotypical. I don't know why but as I was reading this I kept thinking a bit of Star Wars. But pretty much all that is similar is Tobin finding out - SURPRISE! - your dad wasn't who you thought he was, there are superpowers, and now you have to save the universe. Or whatever.
I don't know. I want to give this book a higher rating but I just don't think I can. Perhaps later books in the series will get it right. But for an indie first print it was good. That's what I really like about the move to digital books. We can hear new voices like Charlie Wood and help them develop their writing. It's actually pretty cool. I enjoyed that part of reading this book, honestly.
You guys should give this book a shot and then - if you can - leave some feed back, too. I'm sure the author would appreciate it.
That said, let's get on with the review. I'm a big fan of comicbooks and superhero stories. That's why I decided I wanted to give Strike a read. It's definitely my genre of choice and I actually like books better than comics so I like when authors give it a go at creating a really interesting, unique original character for print media. Tobin Lloyd, the main character of Strike, isn't a bad character. He just comes off as a bit cookie cutter to me. The goofy prankster who somehow avoids detention more often than not. Okay, I get it. I mean, it's actually nice to have a superhero whose not the stereotypical Peter Parker archetype but still. 'Pranksters' in YA Fiction just seem unrealistic to me half the time because after awhile any decent school would expel you. Anyway.
We don't stay in high school for very long. The book moves very quickly and throws you into the action pretty early on. And then it just doesn't really stop. I get that not every book needs to be 300-400 pages long and full of down time but it does kind of help with character development and world building. Strike - while a decent story - just moved really quick. I didn't really feel like I got to know the characters or the world. Sure, it was described to me but I didn't get as much of an opportunity to really understand what was going on or fully understand the underlying conflicts. That's why most authors choose to have a narrator who isn't initially from the world they are writing about? So they can explain things to the character and the reader at the same time?
I liked the characters, though, and wish more of them had been developed. I really did like Tobin and once we get rid of the stereotypical prankster kid we see on pre-teen TV shows you do find a pretty genuine, normal sort of guy shoved into extraordinary circumstances. It's a decent read all in all but it's pretty generic and stereotypical. I don't know why but as I was reading this I kept thinking a bit of Star Wars. But pretty much all that is similar is Tobin finding out - SURPRISE! - your dad wasn't who you thought he was, there are superpowers, and now you have to save the universe. Or whatever.
I don't know. I want to give this book a higher rating but I just don't think I can. Perhaps later books in the series will get it right. But for an indie first print it was good. That's what I really like about the move to digital books. We can hear new voices like Charlie Wood and help them develop their writing. It's actually pretty cool. I enjoyed that part of reading this book, honestly.
You guys should give this book a shot and then - if you can - leave some feed back, too. I'm sure the author would appreciate it.
November 30, 2012
3.5 stars. I enjoyed the story and the characters. It is a typical tale of a teenager who discovers special powers and refuses to listen to his mentor/teacher and it's up to him to save the world. But there are enough cool twists to make it a fun, quick read.
Will look for the next installment to see Tobin/Strike grow in strength and hopefully experience. Wished we got to know his friends, Jennifer and Chad more. Also looking forward to more adventures and more superheroes.
For-review:
Received a free review copy from GoodReads [We ♥ YA Books! ] ARR # 51.
Will look for the next installment to see Tobin/Strike grow in strength and hopefully experience. Wished we got to know his friends, Jennifer and Chad more. Also looking forward to more adventures and more superheroes.
For-review:
Received a free review copy from GoodReads [We ♥ YA Books! ] ARR # 51.
May 18, 2013
Disclaimer: Author provided a review copy. I almost awarded an extra star just for that, but decided to stick with three. I hope that Charlie Wood continues to write in the genre.
I spent countless hours reading books across the genres Strike falls into namely: comic-book, fantasy, science-fantasy, horror. I also watched many movies and television shows in these genres.
In a nutshell: Tobin (slacker Peter Parker type sans science genius) begins his senior year with his friends (Jennifer intelligent good looking and Chad athlete with nerdy tendencies). Unexpectedly, Tobin finds himself in the middle of an intergalactic war where he is the son of one of the universes greatest heroes. He struggles with his role, makes mistakes with mild consequences, and eventually achieves a slightly higher level of maturity. Essentially, I thought the plot covered most of the ground seen in the Matrix, Star Wars IV and V, and Men in Black. That is, it did all these movies plus some all at once.
So much is crammed into this book that the friendship between Tobin, Jennifer, and Chad never gets a chance to really develop. Likewise Tobin's mother. I think the Tobin and Orion relationship comes across most strongly, but only just. Moreover, the places depicted in the book get little to no description, one city is described merely as 'futuristic'. 212 pages is not enough for all the relationships and places packed into this book.
I think Charlie Wood shows promise as an indie author. I encourage him to keep writing. As I read this book I found myself thinking that Stephen King - especially the way King develops relationships and places - would bring the settings of the 'futuristic' city, Bridgeton, Gallymoora, and the relationships to a more full life. I've seen other authors, Charles Blackmore comes to mind, profitably follow King's writing style and I think Strike might benefit from similar treatment. James Alan Gardener is another author who takes characters like Tobin on long joyrides with fuller character and location development.
I recommend reading this book! I think Charlie Wood will appreciate and deserve your feedback!
I spent countless hours reading books across the genres Strike falls into namely: comic-book, fantasy, science-fantasy, horror. I also watched many movies and television shows in these genres.
In a nutshell: Tobin (slacker Peter Parker type sans science genius) begins his senior year with his friends (Jennifer intelligent good looking and Chad athlete with nerdy tendencies). Unexpectedly, Tobin finds himself in the middle of an intergalactic war where he is the son of one of the universes greatest heroes. He struggles with his role, makes mistakes with mild consequences, and eventually achieves a slightly higher level of maturity. Essentially, I thought the plot covered most of the ground seen in the Matrix, Star Wars IV and V, and Men in Black. That is, it did all these movies plus some all at once.
So much is crammed into this book that the friendship between Tobin, Jennifer, and Chad never gets a chance to really develop. Likewise Tobin's mother. I think the Tobin and Orion relationship comes across most strongly, but only just. Moreover, the places depicted in the book get little to no description, one city is described merely as 'futuristic'. 212 pages is not enough for all the relationships and places packed into this book.
I think Charlie Wood shows promise as an indie author. I encourage him to keep writing. As I read this book I found myself thinking that Stephen King - especially the way King develops relationships and places - would bring the settings of the 'futuristic' city, Bridgeton, Gallymoora, and the relationships to a more full life. I've seen other authors, Charles Blackmore comes to mind, profitably follow King's writing style and I think Strike might benefit from similar treatment. James Alan Gardener is another author who takes characters like Tobin on long joyrides with fuller character and location development.
I recommend reading this book! I think Charlie Wood will appreciate and deserve your feedback!
August 11, 2015
Pretty quickly into Strike: The Hero from the Sky, even if you knew nothing about the book outside of reading the story itself, you can tell it's a young adult novel, possibly even middle grade. It starts off with the standards. Kid in school, has troubles (although this one seems to have more going for him than against), suddenly whisked off to magical world to find out that he's part of an elite crew who needs to save the world.
Yet, although this book is written for a younger audience, it's easy to feel the emotion and creativity that Wood has put into his tale of superheroics. Not only do we get great characters like the sidekick dog-person, or the shapeshifting robot, but we also get an entirely new world where superheroes actually like, a world separate from earth, but with people who have the ability to travel to and from our own planet.
And this is where the story truly begins to shine, because, this world, this other world, that Wood has crafted, it's got history. You can tell it's got history through the descriptions alone, but also through how Wood relays the information to Tobin (the protagonist). We only get bits and pieces and things move forward. AND as things move forward, we quickly realize that not everything Tobin learns is accurate.
The story in this novel isn't spectacular, it isn't something that will cause you to drop the book at the end and consider to yourself how amazing everything was pieced together. In fact, the climactic scene of the novel, you know, the moment in which the bad guy is finally thwarted, doesn't exactly exist...it does, but, well, yeah...
But what does really work here is how the world is set up to continue the trilogy. Assuming all that has been alluded to goes somewhere in the rest of the trilogy, we, as the readers, should be in a treat as Tobin gets to explore his homeworld and learn more about the history of his father.
Where this book does really shine is in its creativity. Wood has some fantastical ideas that he puts to the page here, ones that make me think that he's got plenty to offer as his tale continues.
Yet, although this book is written for a younger audience, it's easy to feel the emotion and creativity that Wood has put into his tale of superheroics. Not only do we get great characters like the sidekick dog-person, or the shapeshifting robot, but we also get an entirely new world where superheroes actually like, a world separate from earth, but with people who have the ability to travel to and from our own planet.
And this is where the story truly begins to shine, because, this world, this other world, that Wood has crafted, it's got history. You can tell it's got history through the descriptions alone, but also through how Wood relays the information to Tobin (the protagonist). We only get bits and pieces and things move forward. AND as things move forward, we quickly realize that not everything Tobin learns is accurate.
The story in this novel isn't spectacular, it isn't something that will cause you to drop the book at the end and consider to yourself how amazing everything was pieced together. In fact, the climactic scene of the novel, you know, the moment in which the bad guy is finally thwarted, doesn't exactly exist...it does, but, well, yeah...
But what does really work here is how the world is set up to continue the trilogy. Assuming all that has been alluded to goes somewhere in the rest of the trilogy, we, as the readers, should be in a treat as Tobin gets to explore his homeworld and learn more about the history of his father.
Where this book does really shine is in its creativity. Wood has some fantastical ideas that he puts to the page here, ones that make me think that he's got plenty to offer as his tale continues.
April 21, 2015
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Strike: The Hero From the Sky was one of those books that felt like it would be amazing for a middle school boy. Not being in middle school, nor a boy, I probably didn't get as much out of this as I could have. Don't get me wrong, I think Charile Wood is a great writer. It was easy to get into the story in the beginning, and I liked the flow of the dialog and text. The mechanics of a good book were there. I probably just wasn't as drawn in by the actual plot. Which is funny, because I'm sort of a nerd and I love super heroes. I think in the end it just felt too young for me? Or too boyish? Too something...
Part of the problem was honestly just that it had a different humor than maybe I prefer in a book. I sort of felt like I was on the outside watching the characters laugh and not really finding it as amusing. Talking dog companion and robot and general slapstick conversations just didn't really "click". There were really no female characters to help get me through some important parts of the story, and no one I related to, so that eventually made things putter out for me. I started out really into it. Powers and lightning and suspense, yes! Then all the secondary characters and power discovery took that left turn where I felt like I walked into a boys locker room. Somehow, I just wasn't sure I belonged there.
I'm not marking this book down because I don't think it's really the authors fault. There is an audience for this and if I had a younger brother I could pass it off to them. It just wasn't a "me" book.
Strike: The Hero From the Sky was one of those books that felt like it would be amazing for a middle school boy. Not being in middle school, nor a boy, I probably didn't get as much out of this as I could have. Don't get me wrong, I think Charile Wood is a great writer. It was easy to get into the story in the beginning, and I liked the flow of the dialog and text. The mechanics of a good book were there. I probably just wasn't as drawn in by the actual plot. Which is funny, because I'm sort of a nerd and I love super heroes. I think in the end it just felt too young for me? Or too boyish? Too something...
Part of the problem was honestly just that it had a different humor than maybe I prefer in a book. I sort of felt like I was on the outside watching the characters laugh and not really finding it as amusing. Talking dog companion and robot and general slapstick conversations just didn't really "click". There were really no female characters to help get me through some important parts of the story, and no one I related to, so that eventually made things putter out for me. I started out really into it. Powers and lightning and suspense, yes! Then all the secondary characters and power discovery took that left turn where I felt like I walked into a boys locker room. Somehow, I just wasn't sure I belonged there.
I'm not marking this book down because I don't think it's really the authors fault. There is an audience for this and if I had a younger brother I could pass it off to them. It just wasn't a "me" book.
May 10, 2012
first, my cover is different, it's all blue, lighter in color with a big white lightning bolt on it....i much prefer mine.
i'm about halfway though. it's not bad. i think it's target audience may be middle school, despite the fact that the character is a senior in high school. it's just the way the writing comes across...seems very straightforward and to the point.
only times i'm coming across bad grammar is when Keplar is speaking, so i'm assuming the giant blue talking husky (that's right) is just a bit illiterate...well, not so much as illiterate, as he the diction is very lazy colloquial, if that makes any sense.
the book is overrun with these "CRASH! " "BANG!" AND "ROARs!" are getting a little annoying. i would have preferred unique, like rrraawrr on something onomatopoeia-ish, invoking the sound, not just stating it.
however, upon further examination, it could be a throwback to the comics/superheroes of the 1960's.
-think old school batman cartoon, with all the "booms," "bops," and "cracks." with this ideology, i can respect and accept these overly abundant exclamatory sounds/sound vernacular.
oh, and don't forget that each tie these words are written, they're in all CAPS with an "!"
these seem to be in over abundance, but that just might be because they stick out more than all the other words, what with them being in all CAPS! and followed by an exclamation mark!
when using exclamations, there is, let's say, a point of no return. used them too much, and it renders them meaningless, á la john Updike's "Superman."
i'm about halfway though. it's not bad. i think it's target audience may be middle school, despite the fact that the character is a senior in high school. it's just the way the writing comes across...seems very straightforward and to the point.
only times i'm coming across bad grammar is when Keplar is speaking, so i'm assuming the giant blue talking husky (that's right) is just a bit illiterate...well, not so much as illiterate, as he the diction is very lazy colloquial, if that makes any sense.
the book is overrun with these "CRASH! " "BANG!" AND "ROARs!" are getting a little annoying. i would have preferred unique, like rrraawrr on something onomatopoeia-ish, invoking the sound, not just stating it.
however, upon further examination, it could be a throwback to the comics/superheroes of the 1960's.
-think old school batman cartoon, with all the "booms," "bops," and "cracks." with this ideology, i can respect and accept these overly abundant exclamatory sounds/sound vernacular.
oh, and don't forget that each tie these words are written, they're in all CAPS with an "!"
these seem to be in over abundance, but that just might be because they stick out more than all the other words, what with them being in all CAPS! and followed by an exclamation mark!
when using exclamations, there is, let's say, a point of no return. used them too much, and it renders them meaningless, á la john Updike's "Superman."
December 17, 2013
I received this book through goodreads firstreads giveaways. Strike takes on a kind of comic book theme. High school kid Tobin, is a regular school prankster. He is soon taken off in adventure.
I think that the story had a good idea and could have led to a great story of a superhero and another world. But, in the making of the story I think that the characters weren't really developed to well. Things happened to fast to have any feeling to it. A story needs more than just events, it needs realistic relationships between people. In the course of the events that occurred I feel that some things were just thrown in, like Wood took all his possible ideas and just kind of through them together. Many of these things could have been a lot more subtle or a few even changed. I admire Wood's creativity but, in all I don't think that it wasn't a story that I would really want to read if I knew it was going to be like this. I'm giving it two stars and still plan on reading the second one, because receiving them for the giveaway was to read them both and I won't back down on it. I just hope that there are better development and relationships of the characters and less random events.
I think that the story had a good idea and could have led to a great story of a superhero and another world. But, in the making of the story I think that the characters weren't really developed to well. Things happened to fast to have any feeling to it. A story needs more than just events, it needs realistic relationships between people. In the course of the events that occurred I feel that some things were just thrown in, like Wood took all his possible ideas and just kind of through them together. Many of these things could have been a lot more subtle or a few even changed. I admire Wood's creativity but, in all I don't think that it wasn't a story that I would really want to read if I knew it was going to be like this. I'm giving it two stars and still plan on reading the second one, because receiving them for the giveaway was to read them both and I won't back down on it. I just hope that there are better development and relationships of the characters and less random events.
May 19, 2014
A quick read, this book didn't grab me and demand that I read it, but it did entertain me. The story is simple and straightforward, following a clear path for the creation of a new superhero. It's action and adventure without a lot of emotional baggage.
I found it a little spare. It depicts a smartass, underachieving teenager well, but does so without delving deeply. Tobin is somewhat shallow in the development sense, making him feel a little vague at times. I got the feeling the author was quite fond of Orion, and of Kepler, as both seem lovingly crafted, moreso than any of the other characters. The rest of the secondary characters are spotty at best.
The rules of the superpowers are quite vague, making it difficult to grasp the characters' limits and impossible to figure out how they might die and what the stakes really are. The MacGuffin - aside from how it gets into the hero's hands, which is cute - pushed me one suspension of disbelief too far. I would have preferred for Tobin to have more agency and make greater sacrifice of some kind.
Despite all that, I recommend this for anyone who likes YA urban fantasy, especially those who enjoy superhero stories. If you're not into YA, you'll probably want to pass.
I found it a little spare. It depicts a smartass, underachieving teenager well, but does so without delving deeply. Tobin is somewhat shallow in the development sense, making him feel a little vague at times. I got the feeling the author was quite fond of Orion, and of Kepler, as both seem lovingly crafted, moreso than any of the other characters. The rest of the secondary characters are spotty at best.
The rules of the superpowers are quite vague, making it difficult to grasp the characters' limits and impossible to figure out how they might die and what the stakes really are. The MacGuffin - aside from how it gets into the hero's hands, which is cute - pushed me one suspension of disbelief too far. I would have preferred for Tobin to have more agency and make greater sacrifice of some kind.
Despite all that, I recommend this for anyone who likes YA urban fantasy, especially those who enjoy superhero stories. If you're not into YA, you'll probably want to pass.
June 13, 2012
The rating I would give this book is closer to 3.75/5 stars, but I rounded up.
I had the pleasure of winning a copy of this book from a First Reads giveaway, and read it over the course of an evening.
The pacing of the book is very quick, and I'd almost term it breakneck. While this aids to the overall excitement and interest in the book, it seems to have been to the detriment of lasting character development, outside of Tobin and Orion.
The characters of Tobin and Orion, however, were very well done. Tobin is a believable protagonist, and certainly a sympathetic character. You absolutely feel for the kid who's been dragged into all of this.
The writing in this book is extremely visual. It's not in the way that some authors have of describing a tree in vivid detail ad nauseum for ten pages; it's more in the way you would see in a screenplay. This, for me, is neither a pro nor a con; it's just an observation of a stylistic choice.
I would recommend this book, though. Sometimes, the pacing and ultimate strangeness almost became a little bit much, but Orion and Tobin were able to keep the story on track, and I'm a sucker for superhero stories.
I had the pleasure of winning a copy of this book from a First Reads giveaway, and read it over the course of an evening.
The pacing of the book is very quick, and I'd almost term it breakneck. While this aids to the overall excitement and interest in the book, it seems to have been to the detriment of lasting character development, outside of Tobin and Orion.
The characters of Tobin and Orion, however, were very well done. Tobin is a believable protagonist, and certainly a sympathetic character. You absolutely feel for the kid who's been dragged into all of this.
The writing in this book is extremely visual. It's not in the way that some authors have of describing a tree in vivid detail ad nauseum for ten pages; it's more in the way you would see in a screenplay. This, for me, is neither a pro nor a con; it's just an observation of a stylistic choice.
I would recommend this book, though. Sometimes, the pacing and ultimate strangeness almost became a little bit much, but Orion and Tobin were able to keep the story on track, and I'm a sucker for superhero stories.
June 9, 2012
I won this book from member librarything giveaways in exchange for an honest review.
Strike: The Hero From the Sky is a typical superhero type of book. A teenaged boy named Tobin has a father that disappeared and continuously gets in trouble at school. One day an odd old man finds him and lets him know that his father had superhero powers--the same superhero powers that Tobin has as well. Then comes an invasion from a different world and a showdown between evil and good.
This book is not terrible. It's straightforward and easy to read, and has likeable characters. However, the whole time I was reading the book, I was thinking that this was nothing new. I felt like I had seen the movie version before, which was better. The one really interesting character was the evil villain, and once I started learning more about his past, I started to get more intrigued. But this section was very short.
Overall, it wasn't a bad first novel, but Wood needs to think outside of the box and use some a little less recycled material to maintain interest.
Strike: The Hero From the Sky is a typical superhero type of book. A teenaged boy named Tobin has a father that disappeared and continuously gets in trouble at school. One day an odd old man finds him and lets him know that his father had superhero powers--the same superhero powers that Tobin has as well. Then comes an invasion from a different world and a showdown between evil and good.
This book is not terrible. It's straightforward and easy to read, and has likeable characters. However, the whole time I was reading the book, I was thinking that this was nothing new. I felt like I had seen the movie version before, which was better. The one really interesting character was the evil villain, and once I started learning more about his past, I started to get more intrigued. But this section was very short.
Overall, it wasn't a bad first novel, but Wood needs to think outside of the box and use some a little less recycled material to maintain interest.
September 4, 2012
Well, overall this was an average story about a teenage superhero who learns about his heritage and goes to defeat the evel alien that intends on destroying Earth. So, as you can see, it isn't that origingal of a plot, and the writing was average.
Tobin is the protagonist in this series. He's 17 and lives with his mom because his dad left when he was 3. Turns out that his dad was Strike, a superhero from another planed (the same as the evil alien) that could control electricity. Tobin has inherited his dad's gift. A stranger shows up and thrusts him into a world he never even dreamed about.
One of the things I did like about this book is Tobin didn't just become an amazing hero overnight. He gets scared. He gets hurt. And it made it that much more easy to connect to.
Sooo.... in conclusion I will keep an eye out for the enxt books in the series. A pretty good novel that I recommend for pretty much everybody.
Tobin is the protagonist in this series. He's 17 and lives with his mom because his dad left when he was 3. Turns out that his dad was Strike, a superhero from another planed (the same as the evil alien) that could control electricity. Tobin has inherited his dad's gift. A stranger shows up and thrusts him into a world he never even dreamed about.
One of the things I did like about this book is Tobin didn't just become an amazing hero overnight. He gets scared. He gets hurt. And it made it that much more easy to connect to.
Sooo.... in conclusion I will keep an eye out for the enxt books in the series. A pretty good novel that I recommend for pretty much everybody.
October 4, 2013
First off, I would rate this more along the lines of a 3.5, but since that isn't possible - 3 it is. As a caveat, however, I consider the star ratings much like a performance review. Lots of 3's (good), some 4's (great) and rare 5's (walk on water). In literary terms, unless your last name is Tolkien or Tolstoy, don't count on seeing many 5's from me.
For a first novel, it definitely wasn't bad. I enjoy this genre, so it was an easy read for me and kept my interest. The plot was interesting, even if it was a bit derivative. Enjoyable, nonetheless.
I struggled with wanting to care about the characters. The author obviously spent a lot of time weaving a fantastical tale, but left a lot to be desired in character development - especially the antagonist.
The author definitely has a talent for writing, but needs to be a little more mindful of structure and some silliness that crept in (i.e. a dog, but yet he balled his 'fist'? wouldn't that be a paw?).
All in all, good job.
For a first novel, it definitely wasn't bad. I enjoy this genre, so it was an easy read for me and kept my interest. The plot was interesting, even if it was a bit derivative. Enjoyable, nonetheless.
I struggled with wanting to care about the characters. The author obviously spent a lot of time weaving a fantastical tale, but left a lot to be desired in character development - especially the antagonist.
The author definitely has a talent for writing, but needs to be a little more mindful of structure and some silliness that crept in (i.e. a dog, but yet he balled his 'fist'? wouldn't that be a paw?).
All in all, good job.
June 28, 2014
Tobin is an underachieving teenage boy whose father left when he was small. Then wild things happen and he discovers he's the son of a super hero from a parallel world--with the same powers, of course.
The books starts well, good humor and dialogue and sense of mystery. But then it gets cheesy and the ending is anticlimactic. For example, his training from clueless kid to mastering his powers is covered in a few paragraphs. No explanation is given why he suddenly can do awesome, wild flips when there was no sign of it the day before. And he is smashed and beaten a lot with only bruises to show for it. But being tough isn't in his power set and that's never even discussed.
It wasn't all bad, but it seemed to get worse as it went. And a great ending is so important for a great book--or any experience for that matter. This ending was so simple as to be unsatisfying. The sense drama was rushed. And the way he wins was way too simple.
I won't read the next in the trilogy.
The books starts well, good humor and dialogue and sense of mystery. But then it gets cheesy and the ending is anticlimactic. For example, his training from clueless kid to mastering his powers is covered in a few paragraphs. No explanation is given why he suddenly can do awesome, wild flips when there was no sign of it the day before. And he is smashed and beaten a lot with only bruises to show for it. But being tough isn't in his power set and that's never even discussed.
It wasn't all bad, but it seemed to get worse as it went. And a great ending is so important for a great book--or any experience for that matter. This ending was so simple as to be unsatisfying. The sense drama was rushed. And the way he wins was way too simple.
I won't read the next in the trilogy.
April 1, 2012
I enjoyed this book very much. What I liked most about it was that I found it both amusing and entertaining. It made me smile a lot, and there were some laugh out loud moments throughout. I also like Tobin the main character. He is this average 17 year old who wants to get on with his normal life only to have superhero-status thrust upon him. For a while he didn't strike me as very capable and I was worried for humankind. I thought maybe he should have been called Strike: The Trainee Hero From the Sky - but he does graduate and earn his title. My only criticism would be that I wasn't keen on the flashback passages used to explain Vincent's evil ways - that didn't work for me. All-in-all this is a very good read. Highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2013
Fast paced, lots of humor, and a, not yet ready for action, superhero, what's not to love?
I am always looking for new books for my classroom and Strike will be a hit. A flawed, classroom clown with enough edge to make him easy to connect with, the character of Tobin is one that readers will enjoy rooting for. Tobin's friends, Jennifer the intellectual, and Chad the athlete, are a welcomed change from the type of friends we would expect a kid like Tobin to associate with. Hopefully we will see more of them in the next installment. Add a mentor with two interesting, fun sidekicks and you have a great story that I will keep you turning pages from this world to the next.
February 28, 2013 ~ I just saw the new cover art, it is fabulous!
I am always looking for new books for my classroom and Strike will be a hit. A flawed, classroom clown with enough edge to make him easy to connect with, the character of Tobin is one that readers will enjoy rooting for. Tobin's friends, Jennifer the intellectual, and Chad the athlete, are a welcomed change from the type of friends we would expect a kid like Tobin to associate with. Hopefully we will see more of them in the next installment. Add a mentor with two interesting, fun sidekicks and you have a great story that I will keep you turning pages from this world to the next.
February 28, 2013 ~ I just saw the new cover art, it is fabulous!
July 23, 2012
I loved this book! I am grateful to the author for sending me a copy to read and review. My interest was to check it out for my 7 year old grandson. He loves to read, and I want to keep it that way. I figure a good way to keep up his interest is to give him good books that will pull him into the story so he can't wait to see what happens next.
This book does just that. It kept me turning the pages right to the end. It is a great story with a young boy as the hero. There is lots of action with characters you'll love and some you'll love to hate. I recommend this book for any age person who likes a really good action story. Thanks again for sending me a copy Mr. Wood!
This book does just that. It kept me turning the pages right to the end. It is a great story with a young boy as the hero. There is lots of action with characters you'll love and some you'll love to hate. I recommend this book for any age person who likes a really good action story. Thanks again for sending me a copy Mr. Wood!
March 13, 2012
I won this in a goodreads giveaway.
In "Strike: The Hero from the Sky" the main character Tobin discovers that his father was not quite who he thought he was. In fact he was a superhero and Tobin has inherited his abilities along with his enemies. Now instead of worrying about graduation he's in a fight to save not just his friends and family but the whole world.
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was a fun and entertaining read not only for young adults but for adults who enjoy YA series like Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians." I hope that this is not the last we hear of Tobin Lloyd AKA "Strike."
In "Strike: The Hero from the Sky" the main character Tobin discovers that his father was not quite who he thought he was. In fact he was a superhero and Tobin has inherited his abilities along with his enemies. Now instead of worrying about graduation he's in a fight to save not just his friends and family but the whole world.
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was a fun and entertaining read not only for young adults but for adults who enjoy YA series like Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians." I hope that this is not the last we hear of Tobin Lloyd AKA "Strike."
March 31, 2012
I had the pleasure of reading this book thanks to a read to review from goodreads.com.
I liked the book's characters, but felt that only Orion and Tobin were fully developed. It was a quick read, but I would have liked the other characters to have been more developed. I also thought the plot was a bit too fast paced. The battle was very short, and the scene when Tobin is rescued by a mysterious man was confusing to me. I was left wondering what happened with a lot of characters and the relationships between Tobin and Jennifer never explained. I know that it is the first book in the series, but I felt that it did not stand well on its own in explaining the world.
I liked the book's characters, but felt that only Orion and Tobin were fully developed. It was a quick read, but I would have liked the other characters to have been more developed. I also thought the plot was a bit too fast paced. The battle was very short, and the scene when Tobin is rescued by a mysterious man was confusing to me. I was left wondering what happened with a lot of characters and the relationships between Tobin and Jennifer never explained. I know that it is the first book in the series, but I felt that it did not stand well on its own in explaining the world.
November 13, 2012
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
It was an enjoyable book. it was an easy book to stay in line with. I feel that it wasn't too original until I learner about the bad guy's past. After knowing about the vilian, I felt the book came to a wonderful storyline. For a first novel, it was good. I can see so much potential in this author with this trilogy. I find that the series can only get better. If this were made into a movie or comic book, I could see my son loving it.
It was an enjoyable book. it was an easy book to stay in line with. I feel that it wasn't too original until I learner about the bad guy's past. After knowing about the vilian, I felt the book came to a wonderful storyline. For a first novel, it was good. I can see so much potential in this author with this trilogy. I find that the series can only get better. If this were made into a movie or comic book, I could see my son loving it.
December 6, 2015
The opening act to a dynamic (pun not intended) three-part work.
This is a fairly soft intro to the series, introducing the characters and worlds to the reader. As a standalone book it's not too amazing, if I didn't have the sequels already I wouldn't have been compelled to continue.
The characters and their names are derivative, tropes are plenty, writing is adequate.
However.
Please keep in mind this book is just groundwork for the electrifying (ok, pun majorly intended) second and third acts. To give up with this book would be a shocking (hehe) mistake.
This is a fairly soft intro to the series, introducing the characters and worlds to the reader. As a standalone book it's not too amazing, if I didn't have the sequels already I wouldn't have been compelled to continue.
The characters and their names are derivative, tropes are plenty, writing is adequate.
However.
Please keep in mind this book is just groundwork for the electrifying (ok, pun majorly intended) second and third acts. To give up with this book would be a shocking (hehe) mistake.
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