A review by bookslikegranola
Larklight by Philip Reeve

adventurous funny medium-paced

3.5

A fun, funny, and imaginative middle grade that could have been perhaps a bit more critical of colonialism. 

The story is set in an alternate Victorian era where Isaac Newton discovered alchemy which could make ships into spaceships, thus enabling the British empire to colonize the entire solar system. It’s a universe of imaginative aliens, high seas (er-space) swashbuckling, and ancient monsters lurking in the dark. Overall, it’s a super fun story that always keeps moving with charm, wit, and comedy. I loved this book as a kid, although on re-read it is a little less funny than I remember. Also, although I think it’s there, I wouldn’t have minded a bit more critical view of British imperialism sprinkled throughout.

Recommended to those who enjoy middle grade.