Book Review: It Came From the Sky by Rachael Allen
When I first stumbled upon It Came From the Sky by Rachael Allen, I have to admit—it didn’t immediately grab me. The premise of a "boy genius" caught in a web of his own making felt all too familiar, and I braced myself for yet another predictable tale. Yet, like a surprising gust of wind, this book swept me off my feet, revealing layers I never expected. I received an ARC from Edelweiss, and it provided a refreshing narrative that kept me turning pages, eager to uncover what lay ahead.
At its heart, It Came From the Sky explores themes of authenticity, identity, and the weight of expectations. Gideon, our protagonist, begins as a caricature of the “boy genius.” With his lab full of science experiments gone awry and a formal, almost robotic way of speaking, he initially felt like a tired trope. Yet, as the story progressed, I was delighted to see him evolve into something much deeper. The turning point came when he concocts a rumor about aliens—not just to save face after a mishap, but to forge a social experiment in his quest for acceptance and recognition. It’s a thrilling yet reckless choice that sparks a cascade of events, leading Gideon to lose control of the chaos he’s unleashed.
One of the standout elements of Allen’s writing is her ability to imbue her narrative with nuance. The story isn’t just about the bizarre rumor or the charlatan leading a pyramid scheme; it’s a vibrant commentary on how a simple lie can spiral out of control, affecting not just the individual but the entire community. The chaos that unfolds feels chaotic yet planned, and I found myself almost gently leaning into the wild ride.
I adored the dynamic between Gideon and his boyfriend, Owen. Their relationship brings a much-needed emotional depth to the story, allowing readers to see more than just Gideon’s high-strung, genius exterior. Owen complements Gideon perfectly, providing a lens through which we see Gideon grappling with his self-esteem and sense of worth. It’s a sweet subplot that brings lightness to the otherwise heavy themes.
Yet, I couldn’t ignore the aspects of the book that felt off. As much as I appreciated the multi-layered storytelling, the transition into segments made up of notes and interviews dampened my engagement. The uncomfortable jokes about cow mutilation also left me cringing, and certain plotlines, like the one concerning Gideon’s sister, felt disjointed and underdeveloped. I craved more closure in these areas.
Allen’s exploration of intelligence as multifaceted is commendable. Gideon grapples with the pressure to fit into a mold of brilliance, often questioning his place in a world that values academic prowess over emotional intelligence. This reality makes him relatable, and I found myself rooting for his quest to redefine what success really means.
“Go out and find your glory,” is a line that echoes throughout the narrative and resonates deeply. It encapsulates the heart of Gideon’s journey and perhaps serves as a rallying cry for us all, reminding us to seek our own paths of fulfillment.
Ultimately, I would recommend It Came From the Sky to readers who appreciate richly developed characters and explorations of identity against a backdrop of surreal chaos. It’s a book that lingers, urging reflection long after the last page has turned. I approached this book with skepticism but emerged with admiration for Allen’s craft, and it’s one I won’t soon forget.