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Above World #2
Mirage
A thrilling sequel from an exciting new voice in middle-grade sci-fi tracks two ocean-born children braving the dangers of the Above World.
The desert is no place for ocean-dwelling Kampii like Aluna and Hoku, especially now that Aluna has secretly started growing her tail. But the maniacal Karl Strand is out to conquer the Above World, and the horselike Equians are next on his list. Aluna, Hoku, and their friends — winged Calli and Equian exile Dash — race to the desert city of Mirage, intent on warning the Equians. When they arrive, Strand’s clone, Scorch, has gotten there first. Now the Equian leader has vowed to take all his people to war as part of Strand’s army. Any herd that refuses to join him by the time of the desert-wide competition known as the Thunder Trials will be destroyed. To have any chance of defeating Scorch and convincing the Equians to switch sides, the four friends must find a way to win the Trials. The challenge seems impossible. But if they fail, the desert — and possibly all of the Above World — will be lost to Karl Strand forever. Here is the action-packed follow-up to Above World, which Kirkus Reviews called "a thrilling sci-fi adventure. Imaginative and riveting."
The desert is no place for ocean-dwelling Kampii like Aluna and Hoku, especially now that Aluna has secretly started growing her tail. But the maniacal Karl Strand is out to conquer the Above World, and the horselike Equians are next on his list. Aluna, Hoku, and their friends — winged Calli and Equian exile Dash — race to the desert city of Mirage, intent on warning the Equians. When they arrive, Strand’s clone, Scorch, has gotten there first. Now the Equian leader has vowed to take all his people to war as part of Strand’s army. Any herd that refuses to join him by the time of the desert-wide competition known as the Thunder Trials will be destroyed. To have any chance of defeating Scorch and convincing the Equians to switch sides, the four friends must find a way to win the Trials. The challenge seems impossible. But if they fail, the desert — and possibly all of the Above World — will be lost to Karl Strand forever. Here is the action-packed follow-up to Above World, which Kirkus Reviews called "a thrilling sci-fi adventure. Imaginative and riveting."
368 pages, Hardcover
First published March 12, 2013
31 people are currently reading
819 people want to read
About the author
Jenn Reese
29 books256 followersJenn Reese (she/they) writes speculative fiction for readers of all ages. She is the author of Every Bird a Prince and A Game of Fox & Squirrels, an NPR Best Book of 2020, a finalist for the Andre Norton Award and the Mythopoeic Award, and winner of the Oregon Book Award. Her other publications include the Above World trilogy and numerous short stories and essays. Jenn lives in Portland, Oregon where she makes art, plays video games, and talks to the birds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
February 4, 2013
Disclaimer: Jenn Reese is a friend and colleague. I read this book pre-publication.
It's rare that a novel successfully balances the epic and the intimate, but MIRAGE nails it. As with ABOVE WORLD, the first book in this middle-grade series, MIRAGE treats us to a large-scale adventure, with a primitive, fallen world teeming with imaginative techno-creatures inspired by mythology: mermaids, centaurs, harpies, and more. The pace is fast, the battles are big, and the stakes are large.
But MIRAGE never loses sight of its characters. Aluna continues her honorable fight to protect her friends, even as she undergoes uniquely difficult physical struggles. Hoku battles to reconcile his aversion to violence with his need to take action. And they both grapple with maintaining their strong bond of friendship, even when separated by disagreement.
Above all, MIRAGE is a tremendously fun book, with sweeping landscapes, a glorious sense of wonder, and the joys of watching young heroes fight for victory with courage, wits, and loyalty to each other.
It's rare that a novel successfully balances the epic and the intimate, but MIRAGE nails it. As with ABOVE WORLD, the first book in this middle-grade series, MIRAGE treats us to a large-scale adventure, with a primitive, fallen world teeming with imaginative techno-creatures inspired by mythology: mermaids, centaurs, harpies, and more. The pace is fast, the battles are big, and the stakes are large.
But MIRAGE never loses sight of its characters. Aluna continues her honorable fight to protect her friends, even as she undergoes uniquely difficult physical struggles. Hoku battles to reconcile his aversion to violence with his need to take action. And they both grapple with maintaining their strong bond of friendship, even when separated by disagreement.
Above all, MIRAGE is a tremendously fun book, with sweeping landscapes, a glorious sense of wonder, and the joys of watching young heroes fight for victory with courage, wits, and loyalty to each other.
March 12, 2013
This is my very favorite MG series right now, and MIRAGE (Book 2) is even better than Book 1 - which is saying a LOT! The emotional stakes are raised, things are getting harder and harder for co-heroes Aluna and Hoku (for one thing, Aluna is trapped in a desert as she grows her Kampii mermaid tail!), and oh, is the world-building amazing! There is such an incredible sense of wonder to this book, and especially by the end, there's such a feeling of real, mythic grandeur. This is adventure on a genuinely epic scale.
I love the way Aluna and Hoku are growing into their (very different) powers, I love how real the different cultures feel, and I love the way some of Aluna's and Hoku's assumptions from Book 1 are seriously challenged in this book. These books are in no way didactic - they're just fabulous, thrilling stories about really wonderful characters - but they carry such a powerful message when it comes to diversity.
I love, love, love this series and this book in particular.
I love the way Aluna and Hoku are growing into their (very different) powers, I love how real the different cultures feel, and I love the way some of Aluna's and Hoku's assumptions from Book 1 are seriously challenged in this book. These books are in no way didactic - they're just fabulous, thrilling stories about really wonderful characters - but they carry such a powerful message when it comes to diversity.
I love, love, love this series and this book in particular.
April 17, 2013
After the Harry Potter series, I wondered who could build another world with such detail and then there was The Hunger Games. Each time I thought, "How could anyone create a world as believable, expansive or as unique. Last year, I read another original world building novel, Above World and I again, believed that this could be the new series to love. Now after reading Mirage, my hope has been satisfied that another series has picked up the gauntlet. What I love about Mirage is Reese's use of science fiction tech and imaginative fantastical creatures and then braids them into a tight strong rope. I was lassoed away into the deserts of the Equians and their deep traditions as it clashes against the realities of war with Carl Strand and his clones. The unlikely heroes, Aluna, Dash, Calli and Hoku unite with new friends Tayan, Tal and Nathif, despite their differences in beliefs and traditions, embrace their differences as strengths and travel the higher road. I can't say enough about the themes of family, sacrifice and honor that resonate from the pages.
See complete review at www.soimfifty.blogspot.com
See complete review at www.soimfifty.blogspot.com
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May 2, 2020 Mirage: Above world by Jenn Reese is about a fight from equestrians, serpents, sky creatures, water creatures, techys, and humans for the honor of the thunder trials. In this book the characters learn what true bloodlines are. Humans are trying to take over the desert lands and Dash (an equestrian), Callie (a sky creature), Aluna (a water creature), and Hoku(a techy) are trying to save the lands from Karl strand a human. In the book all groups are fighting in the thunder trials. Whoever wins the thunder trials gets to rule the desert land.
One of the settings in this book is shining moon. The four main characters travel there because one of the main characters who is from there had to stand trial for their crime. “Tayan galloped ahead to the next ridge and called back, “Shining moon! We are home.” Aluna looked at Dash,expecting to see fear or apprehension.Instead, it lit up as if he’d just seen the sun after years in darkness.”(pg 55.) I was curious as to what the character did because you don’t find out till after they arrive at Shining Moon.
One of the important characters in the book that I liked was Nathiff. “ A Serpenti boy must have heard them. He slithered out of another room, shut the thick plastic door behind him, and came to meet them.” “The boy’s sand-colored hair almost perfectly matched the color of his skin. His eyes were a light, vibrant green, the color of kelp in the sun.”(pg 198.) Nathiff's main thing was that he healed people. He ends up healing a lot of the main characters in the book when they get wounded on the journey and in the battles.
Would I recommend this book? Only if you enjoy the fantasy genre and like books with these types of creatures. Personally I thought this book was kind of confusing because of all the different types of creatures and characters you meet along the way. I personally dislike the fantasy genre and will not be reading again. Although I suggest you read if you enjoy this genre.
One of the settings in this book is shining moon. The four main characters travel there because one of the main characters who is from there had to stand trial for their crime. “Tayan galloped ahead to the next ridge and called back, “Shining moon! We are home.” Aluna looked at Dash,expecting to see fear or apprehension.Instead, it lit up as if he’d just seen the sun after years in darkness.”(pg 55.) I was curious as to what the character did because you don’t find out till after they arrive at Shining Moon.
One of the important characters in the book that I liked was Nathiff. “ A Serpenti boy must have heard them. He slithered out of another room, shut the thick plastic door behind him, and came to meet them.” “The boy’s sand-colored hair almost perfectly matched the color of his skin. His eyes were a light, vibrant green, the color of kelp in the sun.”(pg 198.) Nathiff's main thing was that he healed people. He ends up healing a lot of the main characters in the book when they get wounded on the journey and in the battles.
Would I recommend this book? Only if you enjoy the fantasy genre and like books with these types of creatures. Personally I thought this book was kind of confusing because of all the different types of creatures and characters you meet along the way. I personally dislike the fantasy genre and will not be reading again. Although I suggest you read if you enjoy this genre.
May 19, 2021
At the end of Above World Aluna, Hoku, Dash, Calli and allies defeated Fathom and regained control of HydroTek. Now they are off to warn the equians of the threat of Karl Strand. When they get the stronghold of the Red Sky herd, Mirage, they find they are too late. Scorch, another Strand clone, has made herself the power behind the throne of the most powerful herd. If not for Tayan taking Dash prisoner they would have immediately been killed. It's not much of a reprieve, when they get to Shining Moon Dash is going to be tried for breaking his exile and most likely sentenced to death.
Fast read, I did squirm a bit, it looked hopeless. Same lovable heroes from Above World. Really good, clever resolution. My belief was stretched, maybe because it's YA or middle grade, maybe my mind is just underestimating Aluna and her friends. 4.5 stars, strong finish.
Fast read, I did squirm a bit, it looked hopeless. Same lovable heroes from Above World. Really good, clever resolution. My belief was stretched, maybe because it's YA or middle grade, maybe my mind is just underestimating Aluna and her friends. 4.5 stars, strong finish.
March 12, 2013
Originally posted at Random Musings of a Bibliophile.
Sequels are scary things. This is why I approached reading Mirage by Jenn Reese with equal parts excitement and trepidation. I LOVED Above World (my thoughts) so much. I wanted to love this one. I needed to love it because I haven't loved many books yet this year. It fulfilled all of that yearning plus some.
Aluna, Hoku, Dash, and Calli-they all have pieces of my heart. These are some truly wonderful characters and Reese took them and grew them in this second volume. Aluna learned so much from her first journey and it is wonderful to see her apply those lessons in this book. She proceeds with more caution and listens more carefully. She still makes some mistakes, but I love that her character has not stagnated and is moving with the story. We learn about Dash and his past in this book and what I discovered only made me love him more. His nobility, honor, and loyalty are great attributes and his charming ways only add to that. It was interesting to watch Calli-still torn between what she knows she must become and what she wants to do. She's so caring and diplomatic, and yet there are times when I'm not as sure of her as I am of the others. Not unsure of her loyalty, but what she'll choose to do with it. It keeps her from being too perfect. And Hoku. GAH! His quiet heroism in this book catapulted him past Dash as my favorite I think. I love how he refuses to back down from his ideals and tries to figure out ways to make them work in the world he lives in. It also has me very afraid for his continued safety. I always say I love it when authors aren't afraid to hurt even their main characters and Reese certainly isn't. It doesn't stop me from not wanting her to.
The friendship these four share is my favorite element of this trilogy. They met and began it in the first book. This book sees it challenged and grow in amazing ways. It is clear too that they are all learning from each other and becoming better people because of each other. There are scenes that actually had me tearing up-and that is not an easy thing to make me do. One particular scene between Dash and Aluna had me actually shed a tear. I love how Reese uses their friendship and interactions to reveal more of their characters too.
In addition to our four intrepid heroes there are a host of new and amazing characters added here. I loved Tal, Rollin, and Nathif especially.
The world building continues to be impressive. In this volume the setting switches to the desert. Here two different types of people dwell-Dash's Equians and the Serpenti (half snake people-and let me say that whole concept is just awesome by itself). The history of these groups is fraught and rich with detail and these were wonderfully incorporated into the fast moving plot. While Karl Strand and his evil plans shadow this book, the story here is less about confronting a nemesis than it is about learning to grow and change. The story focuses on the desert peoples and the workings of their traditions and politics. There is again a lot of food for thought here on honoring tradition and history while not clinging to it to your own detriment. This fits well with the themes of hope, unity, and strength in community that continue into this story from the first. The way Reese is able to do all of this in a plot that never once drags or even slows down is impressive. I also appreciate how she knows how to end a book. Yes, there is more and they are not done with their struggles, but this book ends with a sense of completion. I still really want the next volume while at the same time don't have cliffhanger rage.
Mirage gave me an adrenaline rush and book hangover like I haven't had in quite some time. I love books that can do that to me and am eagerly awaiting the third and final installment of the trilogy.
I received this most joyfully and gratefully from Candlewick via NetGalley. Mirage is available for purchase today, March 12. (I have an 8 year old eagerly awaiting our copy's arrival. She is quite annoyed I already got to read it.)
Sequels are scary things. This is why I approached reading Mirage by Jenn Reese with equal parts excitement and trepidation. I LOVED Above World (my thoughts) so much. I wanted to love this one. I needed to love it because I haven't loved many books yet this year. It fulfilled all of that yearning plus some.
Aluna, Hoku, Dash, and Calli-they all have pieces of my heart. These are some truly wonderful characters and Reese took them and grew them in this second volume. Aluna learned so much from her first journey and it is wonderful to see her apply those lessons in this book. She proceeds with more caution and listens more carefully. She still makes some mistakes, but I love that her character has not stagnated and is moving with the story. We learn about Dash and his past in this book and what I discovered only made me love him more. His nobility, honor, and loyalty are great attributes and his charming ways only add to that. It was interesting to watch Calli-still torn between what she knows she must become and what she wants to do. She's so caring and diplomatic, and yet there are times when I'm not as sure of her as I am of the others. Not unsure of her loyalty, but what she'll choose to do with it. It keeps her from being too perfect. And Hoku. GAH! His quiet heroism in this book catapulted him past Dash as my favorite I think. I love how he refuses to back down from his ideals and tries to figure out ways to make them work in the world he lives in. It also has me very afraid for his continued safety. I always say I love it when authors aren't afraid to hurt even their main characters and Reese certainly isn't. It doesn't stop me from not wanting her to.
The friendship these four share is my favorite element of this trilogy. They met and began it in the first book. This book sees it challenged and grow in amazing ways. It is clear too that they are all learning from each other and becoming better people because of each other. There are scenes that actually had me tearing up-and that is not an easy thing to make me do. One particular scene between Dash and Aluna had me actually shed a tear. I love how Reese uses their friendship and interactions to reveal more of their characters too.
In addition to our four intrepid heroes there are a host of new and amazing characters added here. I loved Tal, Rollin, and Nathif especially.
The world building continues to be impressive. In this volume the setting switches to the desert. Here two different types of people dwell-Dash's Equians and the Serpenti (half snake people-and let me say that whole concept is just awesome by itself). The history of these groups is fraught and rich with detail and these were wonderfully incorporated into the fast moving plot. While Karl Strand and his evil plans shadow this book, the story here is less about confronting a nemesis than it is about learning to grow and change. The story focuses on the desert peoples and the workings of their traditions and politics. There is again a lot of food for thought here on honoring tradition and history while not clinging to it to your own detriment. This fits well with the themes of hope, unity, and strength in community that continue into this story from the first. The way Reese is able to do all of this in a plot that never once drags or even slows down is impressive. I also appreciate how she knows how to end a book. Yes, there is more and they are not done with their struggles, but this book ends with a sense of completion. I still really want the next volume while at the same time don't have cliffhanger rage.
Mirage gave me an adrenaline rush and book hangover like I haven't had in quite some time. I love books that can do that to me and am eagerly awaiting the third and final installment of the trilogy.
I received this most joyfully and gratefully from Candlewick via NetGalley. Mirage is available for purchase today, March 12. (I have an 8 year old eagerly awaiting our copy's arrival. She is quite annoyed I already got to read it.)
February 8, 2013
Check out more reviews at http://msbookqueen.com
Received as an ARC
This is an exciting second novel in this series, that continues to weave a fresh dystopian story. Aluna and her friends are back, still trying to save the world from Karl Strand and his clones. I admired Aluna's strength in this novel, despite hiding the fact that she is growing a tail from her friends. Dash is still as intriguing as ever, and we get to learn so much more about his past and exactly what happened to cause his exile. I saw a surprising amount of determination from Hoku, while he isn't a fighter, his intelligence and willingness to learn makes him a valuable asset to his friends. There are quite a few surprises along the way, some unexpected friends, and not so unexpected enemies. Finally, we get to experience the world of the Equians, which is quite different from what you may expect. I really enjoyed the detail of the world-building and the adventure of learning about two of the different Above World species. This novel is packed with action, adventure, and a little romance, which make it an absolutely exciting read. I definitely recommend this book if you like exciting dystopian fiction but make sure to read Above World first.
Received as an ARC
This is an exciting second novel in this series, that continues to weave a fresh dystopian story. Aluna and her friends are back, still trying to save the world from Karl Strand and his clones. I admired Aluna's strength in this novel, despite hiding the fact that she is growing a tail from her friends. Dash is still as intriguing as ever, and we get to learn so much more about his past and exactly what happened to cause his exile. I saw a surprising amount of determination from Hoku, while he isn't a fighter, his intelligence and willingness to learn makes him a valuable asset to his friends. There are quite a few surprises along the way, some unexpected friends, and not so unexpected enemies. Finally, we get to experience the world of the Equians, which is quite different from what you may expect. I really enjoyed the detail of the world-building and the adventure of learning about two of the different Above World species. This novel is packed with action, adventure, and a little romance, which make it an absolutely exciting read. I definitely recommend this book if you like exciting dystopian fiction but make sure to read Above World first.
November 7, 2019
Mirage (Above World #2) by Jenn Reese, 356 pages. Candlewick Press, 2013. $7.99
Language: G (0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG13
BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS – ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
During their encounter with Fathom, Aluna and her friends learned that his sibling Scorch is planning to claim the Equians, as Fathom tried to do to the Kampii. Rushing to the desert to warn Dash’s people, Aluna and her friends find that they are too late—Scorch is close to achieving her goal. Dash broke his exile for nothing, and now they may all pay the price.
This book cannot be read without its prequel, Above World, and Mirage is just as good, if not better. The extension of their story is engaging as Aluna’s quest continues far from home, and the character development helps prevent the obstacles to success from becoming repetitive. Adventure awaits those who stick with Aluna, and the final installment is begging for me to stay immersed in this world.
Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2019...
Language: G (0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG13
BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS – ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
During their encounter with Fathom, Aluna and her friends learned that his sibling Scorch is planning to claim the Equians, as Fathom tried to do to the Kampii. Rushing to the desert to warn Dash’s people, Aluna and her friends find that they are too late—Scorch is close to achieving her goal. Dash broke his exile for nothing, and now they may all pay the price.
This book cannot be read without its prequel, Above World, and Mirage is just as good, if not better. The extension of their story is engaging as Aluna’s quest continues far from home, and the character development helps prevent the obstacles to success from becoming repetitive. Adventure awaits those who stick with Aluna, and the final installment is begging for me to stay immersed in this world.
Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2019...
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August 17, 2013I felt this was a book I should have loved with wholehearted abandon, and yet that's not how I felt about it, most of the way through. Everything is good, and the slow and sometimes painful growth of family in characters from widely differing backgrounds is excellent. It might have been the writing, which felt a little -- heavy -- at times, especially the use of "the Equian" or whatever, in place of a character's name. (It's such a minor quibble, but is one of those stylistic things that can become quite irritating.) Possibly it was the dragging out of Aluna's "I've started to grow my tail. Oh, I must hide it from my loyal friends" dilemma/mistake, which grated a little eventually. I can't think of anything else that is really different from the first book, which I did love. There's no question at all about reading the third book, however, as the final sections pulled together beautifully, and provided the emotional wallop I'd been missing before.
January 13, 2014
Jenn Reese introduced several different cultures in her postapocalyptic settting for Above World. With the sequel, she is able to slow the pace a bit to concentrate (with the exception of a couple of chapters) on just one: the centaur-like Equians. By deepening, rather than broadening the world, Reese really strengthens the bonds and interactions between the characters as she draws the reader into the internal struggles of the Equian people.
The story also gets a nasty new villain (the level of opposition for the heroes in this book has been, well, upgraded), and some great additions to the cast.
And, as expected, Reese delivers on the action, which is pretty much non-stop as the book reaches its climactic chapter and Aluna gets a pretty epic final fight. The martial arts action is beautifully written and the intensity never lets up.
This was more focused than Above World without losing the charm of the characters, and I'm looking forward to the third book in the series.
The story also gets a nasty new villain (the level of opposition for the heroes in this book has been, well, upgraded), and some great additions to the cast.
And, as expected, Reese delivers on the action, which is pretty much non-stop as the book reaches its climactic chapter and Aluna gets a pretty epic final fight. The martial arts action is beautifully written and the intensity never lets up.
This was more focused than Above World without losing the charm of the characters, and I'm looking forward to the third book in the series.
September 17, 2013
Aluna now knows the dangerous nature of Karl Strand. He and his clones are not only ready to sacrifice the Kampii, but also the others of the world: Aviars, Equian, and even others she has yet to meet. As she and her best friends, Hoku, Calli and Dash, rush to unite those unaware of impending dangers, other life issues rear their heads. Quickly the youths learn about friendship, young love, honor, integrity and the meaning of family.
Jenn, my friend, you have outdone yourself. This second in the series is a masterful work. The writing is solid, fluid, gripping and invokes vivid imagery. While this novel is aimed at a middle grade audience, its appeal is much broader. The action and conflict feels real and inspires the reader to consider the themes in terms of their own reality.
I cannot praise this second offering in the series and cannot express my anticipation for the next.
Jenn, my friend, you have outdone yourself. This second in the series is a masterful work. The writing is solid, fluid, gripping and invokes vivid imagery. While this novel is aimed at a middle grade audience, its appeal is much broader. The action and conflict feels real and inspires the reader to consider the themes in terms of their own reality.
I cannot praise this second offering in the series and cannot express my anticipation for the next.
May 17, 2024
2024
2021
2020
2018
3.5-4 stars
What I like about this book (well, there is a lot I like about this book) is that it doesn't feel like your typical second book in a trilogy. A lot of the time in the second story it seems to be only a bridge between the first book and the last. This book has plenty of it's own story. There is a lot of action, a lot of friendship, a lot of honor, and a lot of bravery. I like that I wouldn't know this was a middle book, if I didn't already know it. This book could easily be a stand alone book. Of course, it is better in the series. I can't wait to read the next one!
2021
2020
2018
3.5-4 stars
What I like about this book (well, there is a lot I like about this book) is that it doesn't feel like your typical second book in a trilogy. A lot of the time in the second story it seems to be only a bridge between the first book and the last. This book has plenty of it's own story. There is a lot of action, a lot of friendship, a lot of honor, and a lot of bravery. I like that I wouldn't know this was a middle book, if I didn't already know it. This book could easily be a stand alone book. Of course, it is better in the series. I can't wait to read the next one!
February 6, 2025
I just want to say - I read this series years and years and years ago, probably elementary school, I literally don't even know how I found it, probably through my intense love of mermaids at that age and lack of friends, and promptly asked if I could purchase an Ebook version for my Amazon Kindle (a really old version of the Paper, which operated at approximately 2 frames per hour honestly) (it was a Christmas gift from my parents who were worried I didn't have friends but glad I had a healthier hobby than gaming and such) of all three of the books. (I also read all of the Hunger Games on that in fourth grade. I should not have.)
After that, until my Kindle broke (dropped it in a toilet, POST nasty business, and unfortunately it's still somewhere in my childhood bedroom... I thought I'd take that to my grave but now YOU know) I would obsessively read the series beginning to end on repeat. And I mean that so literally. Like as soon as I finished the third one I would immediately go back to Above World.
It's some of the best worldbuilding (as far as I can remember, though the reviews here are confirming that) I feel as though I've ever read, and it's stuck with me through all the years. I was outraged back then that I couldn't find any sort of Internet community regarding this (I had just learned about fandoms via Warriors, thank you Hunter team and Quotev) and I kind of still am today - the characters and world is just so ALIVE and deep with meaning, metaphor, parallels... it made me legitimately think about society in a way my teeny child brain was astonished to realize was comparable to real life (I don't actually remember any of those revolutionary thoughts at this moment but I swear they were huuuge). There's just so much content to play around with, throw into hypotheticals, interpret and headcanon or whatnot.
I want to reread them. It's certainly been long enough. I fear I'll be disappointed but I think I won't care much, I'll just be happy to see my old friends again.
ANYWAYS. The part of this review that is actually about THIS book is that a moment that really stuck with me through the years, which is (bear with me, it's been around a decade) when Aluna and Hoku and Callie - I don't remember who was narrating, oops - are with Dash at this place he calls home, and they are all astonished that he feels it to be home even when they treat him like SHIT AND ASS for being a 'defective' Equian, and he is so steadfast in his love of his home that it doesn't make sense to them... and then they attend a storytelling (I fear there was a better name for it - wordweaving? Either way, a tribute to the beautiful real-life and eternally significant human practice of oral storytelling) around a campire in the desert night and my GOD, I felt every part of what was being described; even now I somehow recall the dustiness and grittiness of everything, hot winds and unfamiliar smells, bustling and the beating sun and cool sand at night... I imagined the reality of a bunch of horse-people, wondered what hooves sounded like on sand, wondered what their daily lives were like - and they sat around the campfire and listened to the rhythmic hoofbeats (against sand?? how loud can that be. Seriously have not spent that much time with hooved animals sorry) and whoever was narrating was like, "...And I understood." And that was all I needed!! That was all the narrative needed!!!
The power of tradition and history, the actions and words brimming with meaning, is not something I've ever been unfamiliar with. I won't go into too much boring lame detail but I'm Asian-American, 2nd gen (birthright citizenship...) and used to really struggle to express or even understand all my feelings and notions of tradition that I was taught from such a distance. Whenever we visited our family back over there, I would know I was othered and as much as I was loved, I was American, no matter how well I spoke the language and looked the part, I wasn't living where our ancestors had laid the foundations of our beings over centuries and there were just things I wouldn't understand, even if I could know it in a literal sense.
Perhaps I resonated with Dash, and loved these moments so much, because I also struggled to have my American friends understand what all these faraway things meant to me. And when WHOEVER NARRATED THAT CHAPTER was still confused until they were shown and not just shown, well, my little child self felt - elated, that it was possible, that they didn't belong there and he only half-belonged (so to speak!) but they could all understand and appreciate - horrifically depressed, because this is a sci-fi fantasy world so maybe intercultural exchange is also fantasy.
Not certain I have much of a point here. I just want everyone to know that I'm relieved the book wasn't a figment of my imagination and that other people liked it too. That's kind of what I'm on Goodreads for, trying to find those old books that meant so much to me as a child that I could hardly reconcile the sheer emotions and exploding thoughts inside of me with the utter meaninglessness of it to everything else in my actual life.
Another note: if you liked this book, you would LOVE T.E. Sutherlands' Wings of Fire, and vice versa. Similar level of whimsy in worldbuilding and fantasy-ness, combined with a startlingly profound characters, relationships, real-world parallels in societal flaws and tendencies, and just... fun. Just so much fucking fun.
After that, until my Kindle broke (dropped it in a toilet, POST nasty business, and unfortunately it's still somewhere in my childhood bedroom... I thought I'd take that to my grave but now YOU know) I would obsessively read the series beginning to end on repeat. And I mean that so literally. Like as soon as I finished the third one I would immediately go back to Above World.
It's some of the best worldbuilding (as far as I can remember, though the reviews here are confirming that) I feel as though I've ever read, and it's stuck with me through all the years. I was outraged back then that I couldn't find any sort of Internet community regarding this (I had just learned about fandoms via Warriors, thank you Hunter team and Quotev) and I kind of still am today - the characters and world is just so ALIVE and deep with meaning, metaphor, parallels... it made me legitimately think about society in a way my teeny child brain was astonished to realize was comparable to real life (I don't actually remember any of those revolutionary thoughts at this moment but I swear they were huuuge). There's just so much content to play around with, throw into hypotheticals, interpret and headcanon or whatnot.
I want to reread them. It's certainly been long enough. I fear I'll be disappointed but I think I won't care much, I'll just be happy to see my old friends again.
ANYWAYS. The part of this review that is actually about THIS book is that a moment that really stuck with me through the years, which is (bear with me, it's been around a decade) when Aluna and Hoku and Callie - I don't remember who was narrating, oops - are with Dash at this place he calls home, and they are all astonished that he feels it to be home even when they treat him like SHIT AND ASS for being a 'defective' Equian, and he is so steadfast in his love of his home that it doesn't make sense to them... and then they attend a storytelling (I fear there was a better name for it - wordweaving? Either way, a tribute to the beautiful real-life and eternally significant human practice of oral storytelling) around a campire in the desert night and my GOD, I felt every part of what was being described; even now I somehow recall the dustiness and grittiness of everything, hot winds and unfamiliar smells, bustling and the beating sun and cool sand at night... I imagined the reality of a bunch of horse-people, wondered what hooves sounded like on sand, wondered what their daily lives were like - and they sat around the campfire and listened to the rhythmic hoofbeats (against sand?? how loud can that be. Seriously have not spent that much time with hooved animals sorry) and whoever was narrating was like, "...And I understood." And that was all I needed!! That was all the narrative needed!!!
The power of tradition and history, the actions and words brimming with meaning, is not something I've ever been unfamiliar with. I won't go into too much boring lame detail but I'm Asian-American, 2nd gen (birthright citizenship...) and used to really struggle to express or even understand all my feelings and notions of tradition that I was taught from such a distance. Whenever we visited our family back over there, I would know I was othered and as much as I was loved, I was American, no matter how well I spoke the language and looked the part, I wasn't living where our ancestors had laid the foundations of our beings over centuries and there were just things I wouldn't understand, even if I could know it in a literal sense.
Perhaps I resonated with Dash, and loved these moments so much, because I also struggled to have my American friends understand what all these faraway things meant to me. And when WHOEVER NARRATED THAT CHAPTER was still confused until they were shown and not just shown, well, my little child self felt - elated, that it was possible, that they didn't belong there and he only half-belonged (so to speak!) but they could all understand and appreciate - horrifically depressed, because this is a sci-fi fantasy world so maybe intercultural exchange is also fantasy.
Not certain I have much of a point here. I just want everyone to know that I'm relieved the book wasn't a figment of my imagination and that other people liked it too. That's kind of what I'm on Goodreads for, trying to find those old books that meant so much to me as a child that I could hardly reconcile the sheer emotions and exploding thoughts inside of me with the utter meaninglessness of it to everything else in my actual life.
Another note: if you liked this book, you would LOVE T.E. Sutherlands' Wings of Fire, and vice versa. Similar level of whimsy in worldbuilding and fantasy-ness, combined with a startlingly profound characters, relationships, real-world parallels in societal flaws and tendencies, and just... fun. Just so much fucking fun.
June 12, 2019
Language: G (0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG13
During their encounter with Fathom, Aluna and her friends learned that his sibling Scorch is planning to claim the Equians, as Fathom tried to do to the Kampii. Rushing to the desert to warn Dash’s people, Aluna and her friends find that they are too late—Scorch is close to achieving her goal. Dash broke his exile for nothing, and now they may all pay the price.
This book cannot be read without its prequel, Above World, and Mirage is just as good, if not better. The extension of their story is engaging as Aluna’s quest continues far from home, and the character development helps prevent the obstacles to success from becoming repetitive. Adventure awaits those who stick with Aluna, and the final installment is begging for me to stay immersed in this world.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
During their encounter with Fathom, Aluna and her friends learned that his sibling Scorch is planning to claim the Equians, as Fathom tried to do to the Kampii. Rushing to the desert to warn Dash’s people, Aluna and her friends find that they are too late—Scorch is close to achieving her goal. Dash broke his exile for nothing, and now they may all pay the price.
This book cannot be read without its prequel, Above World, and Mirage is just as good, if not better. The extension of their story is engaging as Aluna’s quest continues far from home, and the character development helps prevent the obstacles to success from becoming repetitive. Adventure awaits those who stick with Aluna, and the final installment is begging for me to stay immersed in this world.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
May 24, 2017
3.5 stars
An enjoyable installment that lives up to the promise of the first! I personally feel that there aren't enough books featuring centaurs, so I was eager to see the Equain civilization in the "Above World" universe. It lived up to my expectations, although I did have some difficulty picturing how the Serpenti fought (standing on their hands and swinging their tails?). The emotions and plot were good, and I especially liked Tal, who looks like just a horse, but has Equain intelligence. Just like Dash was a "mistake" born looking full-human, Tal is like him, only looking full-horse. It was a really neat concept and I enjoyed the relationship between her and Aluna. The pace is fast, so let's gallop through to the next book!
An enjoyable installment that lives up to the promise of the first! I personally feel that there aren't enough books featuring centaurs, so I was eager to see the Equain civilization in the "Above World" universe. It lived up to my expectations, although I did have some difficulty picturing how the Serpenti fought (standing on their hands and swinging their tails?). The emotions and plot were good, and I especially liked Tal, who looks like just a horse, but has Equain intelligence. Just like Dash was a "mistake" born looking full-human, Tal is like him, only looking full-horse. It was a really neat concept and I enjoyed the relationship between her and Aluna. The pace is fast, so let's gallop through to the next book!
September 5, 2018
This was good, and not just because it had centaurs and snake people. This is the sequel to Above World and gives us even more splinters to avidly discuss with our friends. There are not a lot of books that have centaurs so I was very interested in how the author depicted their culture. In my opinion this was better than the first one although not by much. My only fault was the super short super awkward love triangle. I really don't understand why every author with even a little bit of romance in their books feels the urge to complicate it with a love triangle.
November 10, 2018
Aluna, Hoku, Dash, and Calli journey to Mirage to warn the Equian's about Karl Strand. Aluna has already started growing her tail.
When they get there, Scorch, a clone of Karl Strand's, has already gotten there, and convinced the leader of the Equians to follow Karl Strand. Aluna and her friends have to find a way to defeat Scorch, and make the leader, and everyone who stands with him, oppose Karl Strand.
This book was amazing! I love the Above World books. I just need to keep reading them once I start.
When they get there, Scorch, a clone of Karl Strand's, has already gotten there, and convinced the leader of the Equians to follow Karl Strand. Aluna and her friends have to find a way to defeat Scorch, and make the leader, and everyone who stands with him, oppose Karl Strand.
This book was amazing! I love the Above World books. I just need to keep reading them once I start.
Read
April 20, 2018I've had this book on my list for years now after reading its prequel "Above World," but could never seem to find it at the local store. I loved this one more and despite it having been years between the reading of these two books it was very easy to pick up the 2nd and read it. There was just enough backstory to catch you up. I almost liked this one more than the first of its series.
Great, clean series for your preteen/teen girl or boy.
Great, clean series for your preteen/teen girl or boy.
February 23, 2022
Compared to the very first book, it really wasn't that good. However, as a book itself it was really good. As of the many trilogies that I have read, I felt that it suffered from the typical middle book syndrome. In my eyes, it meant that the book really was not a need to read and not much happened. However, I was here for the character development. Joy. I would recommend that you read this book though so yeh.
November 28, 2018
Appropriate for: age 12+
I liked this sequel a lot. The 4 main characters each have their own strengths and weaknesses that are very relate-able and engaging. There is a some hand to hand combat in this book, so I recommend it for tweens and up.
I liked this sequel a lot. The 4 main characters each have their own strengths and weaknesses that are very relate-able and engaging. There is a some hand to hand combat in this book, so I recommend it for tweens and up.
January 27, 2024
LOVE this already! I can't put it down! Even though it's been quite some time since I read the first one, I have no problem getting right back into the story.
Love the sea language, even while in the desert! I love these characters and love this sequel. Can't wait for the final volume. I'm so glad I bought them all in paperback!
Love the sea language, even while in the desert! I love these characters and love this sequel. Can't wait for the final volume. I'm so glad I bought them all in paperback!
August 11, 2017
Wow! One of the best middle school series I've read in a while! I can't wait to read the third book!
October 22, 2018
The Equians and all their strict tradition was really bothersome. It all worked out in the end, but their prejudice really made the book hard to read at times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2019
Interesting, but very gibberish.
October 7, 2019
3.5 stars
March 17, 2020
Damned racist centaurs.
March 12, 2021
Another Great book, leaves a lot of room for then next book
July 26, 2022
Great!!!
It had great detail I love the action pack in this book! I will read it over and over again.
It had great detail I love the action pack in this book! I will read it over and over again.
May 1, 2016
This review is from eighth grade, so please forgive the bad writing.
In many science fiction/fantasy books, the main characters have to go through a series of trials to reach the ending conclusion. “Trial” means “test” or “hearing” or “ordeal.” In many forms of fiction, a trial is a boulder a character has to overcome or an event a character has to get through to move on with the story.
For instance, the ancient Greeks told myths about Hercules going through trial after trial, gaining more strength after every trial. In The Hunger Games, Katniss is challenged again and again by series of obstacles threatening her very existence. Aluna of the Coral Kampii has to fight a clone, save an Equian condemned to death, befriend an outcast horse, deal with her growing tail, and constantly keep her best friend safe in Jenn Reese’s Mirage.
Jenn Reese is a published writer of three books—Jade Tiger (a romance for adults), Above World, and Mirage, the sequel to Above World. Mythology always has inspired Jenn Reese, and it was mythology that drove her into writing Above World. The character Aluna was built on Jenn’s love for martial arts, “especially kung fu, tai chi, and traditional weapons.” (Reese, back book jacket flap of Mirage). Jenn lives in Los Angeles, where she studies martial arts, plays video games, writes, gets stuck in traffic, and dreams of rain.
Aluna and Hoku of the Coral Kampii have journeyed to Equian territory in the desert along with winged Calli and Equian exile Dash in the hopes of warning High Khan Onggor about the vicious Karl Strand. Unfortunately, Scorch—one of Karl Strand’s clones—has gotten there first. Scorch has convinced High Khan Onggor to join Karl Strand and his campaign to take over all LegendaryTek communities. She has turned the great city of Mirage into a war zone and made false promises. She has acted without mercy.
As they neared Mirage, Aluna’s brain worked its way through the illusions. The city flickered less and less until finally it blinked into view and stayed, solid as a stone. A layer of soot coated the inside of the dome, making it difficult to see the details. Dark figures patrolled just beyond the entrance gate, their pikes and swords reflecting the sunlight in sharp bursts. She glanced at Dash and saw his eagerness fade, his jaw clench. ‘What’s wrong?’ she asked. He stared straight ahead at Mirage, his brown eyes searching. ‘I do not know,’ he said quietly. ‘Maybe nothing. But perhaps…everything.’ (Reese, 8)
Aluna, Hoku, and Calli are sent stay with Dash’s tribe, Shining Moon, while Dash is put on trial for breaking his exile. New friends are made, including an Equian born without her humanity and an Upgrader more metal than flesh. New enemies are discovered, including a murderous word-weaver mad at Dash for kissing his daughter years back. It is soon realized that the only hope of overthrowing Scorch is finding some way of winning the sacred annual Thunder Trials, a series of competitions for the title High Khan. The chances seem slim, especially now that Aluna’s ability to fight will be challenged at the prospect of her growing mermaid tail. Will Aluna, Hoku, Calli, and Dash succeed?
Jenn Reese uses complex words, fragments, and varying sentence length. She tells the story in third person, often switching from Aluna’s point of view to Hoku’s. Every once in a while, Jenn explains what a person is, so that if someone started the book at Chapter 18, the characters would explain themselves. For example, she calls Dash “the horse boy” to show he’s an Equian and calls Calli “the winged girl” to show she’s an Aviar. She uses lots of detail, but not direct detail such as, “Aluna was a Kampii who needs action.” Instead, Jenn might say, “Aluna felt the urge to keep moving; never stopping, never looking back.” (Warning! This is not something she actually wrote! I made it up!)
I thought that Mirage style-wise was just as good as Above World. Character development, structure, and detail was all there. The idea was fantastic. I was hooked in, and I read every page without skimming. However, Above World had a constantly churning plot, building more and more excitement. Mirage, like many other “second” books, just didn’t have a lot happening that related to the plot introduced in Book 1. Mirage was a book that could stand alone and do fine. I loved Above World, and I was disappointed how Mirage didn’t connect well to that first book. Maybe in the third book the plot will connect better. After all, Aluna does say, “It’s taken us a long time to find one another, but now we have. Together, we’re strong. Strong enough to fight, and strong enough to win…We’re going to find Karl Strand.” (Reese, 356).
In many science fiction/fantasy books, the main characters have to go through a series of trials to reach the ending conclusion. “Trial” means “test” or “hearing” or “ordeal.” In many forms of fiction, a trial is a boulder a character has to overcome or an event a character has to get through to move on with the story.
For instance, the ancient Greeks told myths about Hercules going through trial after trial, gaining more strength after every trial. In The Hunger Games, Katniss is challenged again and again by series of obstacles threatening her very existence. Aluna of the Coral Kampii has to fight a clone, save an Equian condemned to death, befriend an outcast horse, deal with her growing tail, and constantly keep her best friend safe in Jenn Reese’s Mirage.
Jenn Reese is a published writer of three books—Jade Tiger (a romance for adults), Above World, and Mirage, the sequel to Above World. Mythology always has inspired Jenn Reese, and it was mythology that drove her into writing Above World. The character Aluna was built on Jenn’s love for martial arts, “especially kung fu, tai chi, and traditional weapons.” (Reese, back book jacket flap of Mirage). Jenn lives in Los Angeles, where she studies martial arts, plays video games, writes, gets stuck in traffic, and dreams of rain.
Aluna and Hoku of the Coral Kampii have journeyed to Equian territory in the desert along with winged Calli and Equian exile Dash in the hopes of warning High Khan Onggor about the vicious Karl Strand. Unfortunately, Scorch—one of Karl Strand’s clones—has gotten there first. Scorch has convinced High Khan Onggor to join Karl Strand and his campaign to take over all LegendaryTek communities. She has turned the great city of Mirage into a war zone and made false promises. She has acted without mercy.
As they neared Mirage, Aluna’s brain worked its way through the illusions. The city flickered less and less until finally it blinked into view and stayed, solid as a stone. A layer of soot coated the inside of the dome, making it difficult to see the details. Dark figures patrolled just beyond the entrance gate, their pikes and swords reflecting the sunlight in sharp bursts. She glanced at Dash and saw his eagerness fade, his jaw clench. ‘What’s wrong?’ she asked. He stared straight ahead at Mirage, his brown eyes searching. ‘I do not know,’ he said quietly. ‘Maybe nothing. But perhaps…everything.’ (Reese, 8)
Aluna, Hoku, and Calli are sent stay with Dash’s tribe, Shining Moon, while Dash is put on trial for breaking his exile. New friends are made, including an Equian born without her humanity and an Upgrader more metal than flesh. New enemies are discovered, including a murderous word-weaver mad at Dash for kissing his daughter years back. It is soon realized that the only hope of overthrowing Scorch is finding some way of winning the sacred annual Thunder Trials, a series of competitions for the title High Khan. The chances seem slim, especially now that Aluna’s ability to fight will be challenged at the prospect of her growing mermaid tail. Will Aluna, Hoku, Calli, and Dash succeed?
Jenn Reese uses complex words, fragments, and varying sentence length. She tells the story in third person, often switching from Aluna’s point of view to Hoku’s. Every once in a while, Jenn explains what a person is, so that if someone started the book at Chapter 18, the characters would explain themselves. For example, she calls Dash “the horse boy” to show he’s an Equian and calls Calli “the winged girl” to show she’s an Aviar. She uses lots of detail, but not direct detail such as, “Aluna was a Kampii who needs action.” Instead, Jenn might say, “Aluna felt the urge to keep moving; never stopping, never looking back.” (Warning! This is not something she actually wrote! I made it up!)
I thought that Mirage style-wise was just as good as Above World. Character development, structure, and detail was all there. The idea was fantastic. I was hooked in, and I read every page without skimming. However, Above World had a constantly churning plot, building more and more excitement. Mirage, like many other “second” books, just didn’t have a lot happening that related to the plot introduced in Book 1. Mirage was a book that could stand alone and do fine. I loved Above World, and I was disappointed how Mirage didn’t connect well to that first book. Maybe in the third book the plot will connect better. After all, Aluna does say, “It’s taken us a long time to find one another, but now we have. Together, we’re strong. Strong enough to fight, and strong enough to win…We’re going to find Karl Strand.” (Reese, 356).
December 9, 2014
Middle books of trilogies have a tarnished reputation, but Mirage really shines: it's both a strong continuation to the arc that began in Above World and an engaging episode in itself.
In the first book, Jenn Reese introduced us to the distant descendants of humans who changed their bodies to survive in all niches of an overcrowded world. (Spoilers for Above World:)
In this second act of the series, Aluna, Hoku, Calli, and Dash have set out into the desert to warn Dash's centaur-like Equian relations about Strand, only to find that Strand's agent has beaten them there and wants them dead. In order to survive, they must navigate both the hostile environment of the desert and the intricacies of tradition and honor among the people who live there. It's an immersive read, full of action and invention. In the way that Above World is in part about breaking out of the sheltered innocence of childhood, Mirage evokes adolescent learning about friendship, trust, and responsibility.
Reese writes a world that can be appreciated at any age. Mirage is listed at a reading level of 10 and up -- and my friends in that age group who've read Above World can't wait to get the sequel! The writing and plot are all very natural and cleanly done, but nothing really disturbed my expectations as a genre-savvy adult. What does keep me thinking about Reese's world, though, is how her world holds a twisted mirror to our own. Our sympathies from the first book are very clearly aligned with the Tek-created peoples and against Upgraders, and I've had an enjoyable time thinking about how Reese both creates and complicates echoes between this sympathy and ideas of racial purity. In Mirage, it was a pleasure to read the characters gaining some complication in their view of the world as well.
(Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway.)
In the first book, Jenn Reese introduced us to the distant descendants of humans who changed their bodies to survive in all niches of an overcrowded world. (Spoilers for Above World:)
In this second act of the series, Aluna, Hoku, Calli, and Dash have set out into the desert to warn Dash's centaur-like Equian relations about Strand, only to find that Strand's agent has beaten them there and wants them dead. In order to survive, they must navigate both the hostile environment of the desert and the intricacies of tradition and honor among the people who live there. It's an immersive read, full of action and invention. In the way that Above World is in part about breaking out of the sheltered innocence of childhood, Mirage evokes adolescent learning about friendship, trust, and responsibility.
Reese writes a world that can be appreciated at any age. Mirage is listed at a reading level of 10 and up -- and my friends in that age group who've read Above World can't wait to get the sequel! The writing and plot are all very natural and cleanly done, but nothing really disturbed my expectations as a genre-savvy adult. What does keep me thinking about Reese's world, though, is how her world holds a twisted mirror to our own. Our sympathies from the first book are very clearly aligned with the Tek-created peoples and against Upgraders, and I've had an enjoyable time thinking about how Reese both creates and complicates echoes between this sympathy and ideas of racial purity. In Mirage, it was a pleasure to read the characters gaining some complication in their view of the world as well.
(Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway.)
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