Initiation

by Kirstin Pulioff

Tommy feels lost after his father’s death. To make matters worse, his mom moves him to a new town where he doesn't have any friends, and he quickly becomes a punching bag for the school bully. He can’t win. So, when a mysterious visitor approaches him with the promise of adventure, Tommy jumps at the opportunity.

Whisked away to a school in the sky where magic rules and storms are forged by an elite group of Sky Raiders, Tommy learns that the world’s problems are much larger than his own.

When the weather spirals out of control and a rogue Raider’s diabolical plans surface, Tommy must decide how much he is willing to risk to save the world.

Genres: Middle Grade

170 pages, Paperback

Published April 1, 2017

About the author

Kirstin Pulioff is a storyteller at heart. Born and raised in Southern California, she moved to the Pacific Northwest to follow her dreams and graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Forest Management. Happily married and a mother of two, she lives in Oregon, and enjoys being a stay at home mom. When she’s not writing, she is busy with her kids, church and the family business.

I would love to connect with you at:
www.facebook.com/kirstinpulioffauthor
https://twitter.com/kirstinpulioff
http://www.amazon.com/Kirstin-Pulioff...

I am also the Young Adult & Children's Literature moderator for the Modern Good Reads group. Join in our discussion of great books, and great recommendations. Hope to see you there http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/9...

Reviews

[Rosie · Rating 5 out of 5]

When eleven year old Tommy starts life over, moving to his uncle’s farm and attending Mustang Mountain Elementary School, he is constantly teased and bullied by Devan – a student renowned for taking pleasure in tormenting others. Nobody cares that Tommy had moved because of his father’s sudden death. But when Benjamin Bellarium mysteriously appears, offering Tommy a place in the elite Sky Raider Academy, Tommy cannot believe his luck. Attending Mustang Mountain Elementary School by day, and Sky Raider Academy by night, Tommy learns of the sinister evil behind the erratic changes in the weather – the same evil which had killed his father – and Tommy gives his all to become the best Sky Raider to ever graduate. Not only does he aspire to avenge his father’s death, but Tommy is also willing to risk everything in order to save the planet’s inhabitants... including the bully whose only focus is seeing Tommy suffer.

Kirstin Pulioff’s first book in the Sky Raider Academy series is possibly one of the most interesting and adventurous that I have ever read. Not only does it touch on the reality of bullying in schools and climate change, but it also injects just the right amount of fantasy, adventure and humor. Living through the pain of losing a parent when a child is so very young must be utterly unbearable, but having the weight of the world on your shoulders as well would be enough to shake the foundation which keeps any young mind afloat. The home setting of that on a farm was one which truly touched my heart, having grown up in the outback of Australia on a large farm setting. The action and excitement, in the form of attending a school for budding anonymous superheroes, gave the Sky Raider Academy series the perfect boost to set the scene for some of the most troubling aspects of today’s climate. With just the right dose of fun, entertainment, adventure, drama and suspense, I found myself unable to put the book down until the very end. I recommend Initiation to readers, young and old, who not only relate to schoolyard bullying and hold concern for the future of our planet, but wish to indulge in the offset of a purely imaginative fantasy.

- Rosie Malezer for Readers’ Favorite

[Mrs Mommy Booknerd http://mrsmommybooknerd.blogspot.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

My boys and I LOVED this book. We did it as a read aloud and it was so much fun! Both the kids and I were both engaged, which say a lot! There was death in story, wonderful characters and adventure galore. I cannot wait to see where this series goes, neither can my boys. If you want as great story to read with your kids this summer I highly recommend this. You can do it as a read aloud or as a family book club. It would be a great way to keep the kids reading over the summer!

[La La · Rating 3 out of 5]

4.5 stars on blog.
The minute I started reading this story I felt like I was being pulled into a big warm book hug. As I read I was mentally ticking off the things that make an enjoyable Middle Grade read, while also taking the opportunity to give insight into situations and problems MG age readers face in daily life, and maybe teach a little science, too!

This story has a nontraditional family, bullies, school days, some really different (but caring) teachers, friendships, teamwork, and LLAMAS! Ha ha. There is also a science element... weather and climate change lessons were entertainingly threaded through the storylin

I was rooting for Tommy throughout the story, and I am thrilled there are going to be sequels full of his Sky Raiders adventures!


Here is the link to my full blog review with giveaway:
http://paperdragonwings.blogspot.com/...

I was given a promotional e-copy from Beach Bound Book Promotions in return for an honest review.

[Fiona Ingram · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life just couldn’t get any worse for 11-year-old Tommy. After the death of his father, he and his mom move from New York to Colorado, and (even worse) they’ll be staying with Tommy’s eccentric Uncle Joe, who owns a llama farm, and is (adding to the even worse part) a conspiracy theorist and something of a joke to the townsfolk. His new school is called Mustang Mountain Elementary and Tommy’s convinced, especially after a rocky start, that he’ll never be happy there. The teachers are also a bit eccentric, albeit in an interesting way, and the school bully has homed in on him from day one. Life sucks! But then life changes in (literally) a flash of light as a mysterious stranger, Mr. Bellarium, appears to Tommy one night and whisks him away to a very different kind of school, one in the sky called The Sky Raider Academy. This is where specially chosen kids learn how to manage the weather. Tommy’s father was a Sky Raider, and considered to be one of their most gifted and inventive students. Tommy’s problems with fitting into a new town, a new school, and dealing with new people fade into insignificance when it becomes apparent that a rogue Sky Raider is wreaking havoc on the world by manipulating the weather ... with disastrous consequences! Can Tommy, with his new Sky Raider friends, Will and Rachel, find the courage to combat this enemy and emerge victorious, and how much did this rogue Sky Raider have to do with Tommy’s father’s mysterious death?

First up, kids who aren’t even vaguely interested in science and meteorological phenomena will be riveted by how the author has turned science into magic. After all, “magic is just misunderstood technology.” There aren’t any magic wands, but there’s a plethora of gadgets, gizmos, rides, and novel pieces of equipment to delight any kid who loves to tinker with “stuff.” There is danger, excitement, and feats of derring-do aplenty. In between all the otherworldly Sky Raider activities, Tommy fits in a normal day’s school every day. The author shines here in making real the dialogue, the problems, the events, and the interactions normal kids would have. As Tommy realises the world is bigger than he is, he starts noticing more about others; for example, his mom seems happier here on the farm now. It’s easy to turn inward and feel sorry for oneself, but Tommy rises to the occasion, especially the one that demands a final act of heroism.

There’s a large cast, but young readers won’t get confused because teachers (both at school and the Academy), family members (including Pinky the llama that eats almost anything), and friends are well defined and stand out as individuals. Hopefully, there’ll be more on them in subsequent books. I found the setting up a little slow, but considering this is to be a series, the information will serve young readers well. As an adult, I also found the meteorological and scientific details a bit too much, but looking at this book from a young reader’s point of view, I am sure that won’t be a problem. Author Kirsten Pulioff’s middle grade book, Initiation, tackles issues that children have to deal with and often struggle to cope with adequately (death, bereavement, moving, leaving friends behind, new school, bullying), as well as infusing a real world with a parallel world of fantasy, adventure, heroism, and more. I enjoyed the moment where Tommy stands up to the school bully and, in a unique way, gives him a “taste of his own medicine.” This could be seen as a book for boys, but Rachel is a very appealing sidekick and girl readers will love her character. A good start to an exciting series!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars, but deserved to be rounded up!

Tommy has just moved with his mom from California to Colorado, after his father’s death. They live with Uncle Joe now, an eccentric but lovable Llama Farmer.

The story opens with vivid descriptions of the scenery. That, along with the natural flow of conversation between Tommy and his uncle, drew me in to the story right away.

First things first, Tommy has to start at a new school in the middle of the year, and he struggles to find friends.

One night, he’s visited in his room by someone who takes him to see the unknown, usually unseen Sky Raiders Academy, a school devoted to the formation and protection of weather and clouds and winds. Tommy discovers his father’s demise has to do with something that happened in this sky/weather training realm, and he’s determined to unravel the mystery and find who’s responsible. Whoever it was, they are also causing havoc to the world’s weather systems. The danger and severity of these weather anomalies worsens all the time, and the Sky Raider faculty aren’t sure what the best route to stop it is. After a scare in which all students are sent home indefinitely, Tommy is more determined than ever to get back and stop whoever is causing the chaos. You'll definitely want to keep flipping pages to find out who is causing the problems!

This was an exciting story with creative ideas! I was curious at the end of each chapter, wanting to start the next chapter right away.

I think even more suspense could have been built if the villain wasn’t mentioned as a “he” during Tommy’s first visit to Sky Raiders Academy. It would have widened the scope of suspects I think. Still, there were good twists and turns! There was a cast of funny and eccentric faculty at both Tommy’s “normal” elementary school and at his Sky Raiders Academy.

I would definitely recommend this to children 8+. Since my 9 year old son loves weather, this book has a plot perfectly suited to his interests. Low on romance, high on friendship, low on deep darkness, high on adventure! And just look at that fun book cover art! I love it.

I was given a free copy for an honest review, with no personal connections to the author.

[Barbara Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

One night a surprise visitor appears in Tommy's bedroom. Mr. Bellarmie gifts him with a hologram ankle bracelet that transports Tommy to Sky Academy. Tommy is surprised to learn that his father was an honored member of this elite group, but he is astonished to learn that the invention of his father got him killed. At the Academy, Tommy meets fellow newcomers Rachel and Will, who will become his best friends. Every night the members of this elite weather group come together to learn about how to control weather catastrophes down on the earth. Tommy is thrilled to be involved nightly until the increasing number of weather disruptions on earth make it too dangerous for the students; Mr. Bellarmie temporarily shuts the school down. Tommy's world comes crashing down on him once more.

Tommy' s frustration and disappointment escalates until he discovers his father's holographic bracelet in his mother's jewelry box. Then Tommy is successful in traveling back to the Sky Academy. He is able to call back his friends to enlist their help to end the weather mishaps and unravel the mystery of how his father died and who is manipulating the weather mayhem. Will, Rachel and Tommy go on a wild adventure invoking all sorts of magic, lightning bolts, green slime, poison gas, and gargoyles to name a few. Will Sky Academy be able to survive and restore weather on earth to normal? Who killed Tommy's father? Can Tommy succeed in preventing Devan from bullying him?

Middle grade students who like fantasy, adventure, mystery and magic will enjoy this first book in a new series. Well suited to the issues facing this age bracket, the book will inform, entertain and inspire the reader. Can't wait to see what adventures emerge in Book 2.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily decided to review with my honest opinions for no monetary compensation.

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Initiation: Sky Raider Academy is a creatively written fantasy complete with magic and mystery that is certain to captivate readers until the end.

After his dad's death, Tommy and his mom move from California to Colorado to live with Tommy's Uncle Joe. Devastated by the loss of his dad and having to move away from his friends, Tommy reluctantly enters his new school. He is welcomed by friendly, yet eccentric teachers and staff, but it's the school bully that makes the biggest impression and leaves Tommy longing for the life he had when his dad was alive.

However, the night Tommy is catapulted to an amazing school in the sky, known as Sky Raider Academy, he has no doubt his life will never be the same. Here Tommy finally fits in and easily makes friends. He begins to find joy in life and experiences a sense of belonging. Tommy also learns that his father was part of Sky Raider Academy too and his death is far more sinister than Tommy realized. He also discovers the Academy is in terrible danger. Now, it is up to Tommy and his fellow Sky Raiders to not only save the Academy, but ultimately the world.

I found Initiation: Sky Raider Academy to be a very satisfying read. The author develops a wonderful array of characters that add to the entertainment and the intriguing plot easily captures imaginations young and old. The author also incorporates a bit of learning as Tommy and others at the Academy study clouds and weather patterns. Best of all middle grade readers will be able to identify with many aspects of the book through personal experiences which will help them feel a connection and leave them yearning for more.

Initiation: Sky Raider Academy is a great start for a book series that is sure to become a favorite among children and parents alike. A perfect addition to any homeschool or classroom library as well.

I highly recommend picking up a copy.​

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun read, which tackles many things middle grade readers will easily relate to while wrapping it in an exciting adventure.

The opening scene has a serious but, at the same time, slight bit of quirky humor which draws right in. Tommy's just experienced a hard blow, and that comes across clearly without burying the rest of the story. Tommy is a boy who is easy to cheer for until the end.

Writing wise, this hits the middle grade area center on. The dialogue flows naturally and matches the age group nicely. Descriptions help bring the world to life without ever becoming too long winded. In the beginning, some of the school descriptions flew by a little too quick and I had to go back and read the to notice what was special about them (and the school).

There's a nice touch of science thrown in as well, which never felt forced. It flowed with the quick-paced plot and gave an interesting twist to things.

Summed up, this is a fun read for ages 8 to 10, and at 170 pages, will even grab the interest of more reluctant readers. I'm looking forward to seeing where the series goes from here.

I received a complimentary copy and wanted to leave my thoughts.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Initiation is an incredible story about a boy named Tommy. When Tommy moves after his dad's death he feels like his life had been turned upside down.He had a terrible first day of school, but was suprised when a man showed up inviting him to Sky Raider Academy. But something terrible happens there. Throughout the rest of the story, Tommy makes new friends and solves a big problem. I really enjoyed this story and simply couldn't put it down. I loved how this book twist and turns in both predictable and unexpected ways.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author.

[Literary Chanteuse · Rating 3 out of 5]

A charming story that fills the need for adventure and fantasy and belief in the impossible can be possible. The main character deals with quite a few issues such as bullying, his father's death, moving to a new town and starting at a new school, in an honest way that resonates with younger readers. A combination of magic and fun make this quite an exciting read.

3.5 stars I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[M.M. Hudson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This middle-grade book is just the kind of book I enjoy. It has a mysterious school and twisted plots. The characters are well developed. The story kind of reminded me of the beginning of "Harry Potter" meshed with "He-Man" and the "Wizard of Oz."

The only concern I have about this book is that it begins a bit slow.

I do not mean to spoil but I can easily say that you will see very familiar characters.
The book boasts of heroes in the making but more importantly, the idea that friendship is everything. When friends stick together amazing things can be accomplished and that is exactly what happens.

4 stars.

Disclosure: I received a PDF copy of this book to review. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. M.M. Hudson aka Naila Moon

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Initiation is the first book in a new series (Sky Raiders Academy) by middle grade author Kirstin Pulioff. Crossing the science fiction and magical realism genres, Initiation takes us on a journey through the eyes of 11 year-old Tommy, a boy who has just lost his father and moves with his mother to small town America to stay on his uncle Joe’s llama farm. Much to Tommy’s dismay, he has a hard time fitting in with his new classmates and immediately draws the attention of the school’s bully, Devan. When Tommy feels that things couldn’t possibly get worse, a mysterious man with ties to his dead father, Mr. Bellarium, offers him a unique opportunity to attend Sky Raider Academy – a school where children learn how to manage the weather. But more importantly, this is an opportunity for Tommy to discover what really happened to his father.

Struggling with adjusting to his new life, Sky Raider Academy offers a glimmer of hope to Tommy as he makes two new friends (Will and Rachel) and walks in his Dad’s footsteps learning how to study weather patterns, control lightning, and paint sunrises and sunsets. It doesn’t take long for Tommy to realize that Devan is not the only danger he faces. A far more dangerous foe – an unknown saboteur – is interfering with weather dispersal causing devastating storms and floods across the globe. Could this be the same person who killed his father? Tommy must find the courage within himself to pursue the saboteur and uncover their evil plan.

Initiation is a fun-filled adventure transporting the reader into a fantasy realm, the Sky Raider Academy. The input of the author’s students is evident in the capture of the protagonist’s emotions and thoughts; in the descriptions of the schools and classmates; and, in the creative elements of the Academy’s setting and curriculum. I was immediately drawn in and sympathetic to Tommy’s character as we discover that his father has died, he moves to a new school, and then struggles to fit into his new situation. I found myself totally invested in what happens to Tommy. The long list of secondary characters such as his Mom, uncle Joe, Mustang Mountain Elementary school and Sky Raider Academy staff, classmates, and friends all play key roles in the story although I found myself wanting to know more about some of the characters (e.g., uncle Joe, Will, and Rachel). Hopefully more light will be shed on some of these characters in future books.

The plot itself will keep young readers hooked. The opening chapter is a bit dark (we immediately learn of Tommy’s death) but I think that many middle grade children will identify with Tommy’s character as he navigates significant changes in his life and is the victim of bullying. There are many themes touched upon in the story including the impact of bullying; the importance of family and friends; and finding the courage to solve problems despite being faced with obstacles. The only comment I would like to make regarding the plot is that it made me a bit uncomfortable that Tommy (with Leo’s help) decided to seek revenge on Devan (the bully) instead of identifying and using resources to deal with the bullying in a different way. While the action Tommy took was relatively mild, I still feel that this wasn’t the right direction. In real life, seeking revenge (or retaliation) would likely result in an escalation in bullying. This was a tiny part of the story, so I don’t want to blow this point out of proportion. The bullying and its effects were captured effectively.

Overall, Initiation was a fun read featuring an exciting adventure, a sympathetic main character, and just the right amount of intrigue. I’m excited for this new series by one of my favorite middle grade Indie authors, Kirstin Pulioff and I can’t wait to see how the story continues in Book 2. I recommend this book to children ages 8 to 12.

* This book was provided to me by BeachBoundBooks free-of-charge in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. *

[Greg Kalkwarf · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked this book! The author provided terrific imagery and description that captured my imagination. A fun read that kept me turning the pages.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I raced to finish the book. Exciting book!

[Kirstin Pulioff · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun story about a boy, friendship, and what happens when the world you know changes. This is part coming of age, part fantasy adventure, and a whole lot of FUN!