Book Review: We Light Up the Sky by Lilliam Rivera
I couldn’t resist picking up We Light Up the Sky by Lilliam Rivera after seeing its vibrant cover and reading the premise—a young adult sci-fi novel set in a post-COVID Los Angeles facing an alien invasion. That blend of contemporary issues and speculative fiction felt like a perfect concoction for engaging storytelling. As I delved into the pages, I hoped to find a story that would both thrill and resonate on a personal level. While Rivera definitely gives us a daring vision of resilience, I found myself wanting a bit more from the journey.
Set in a Los Angeles transformed into a treacherous jungle overrun by alien forces, we meet three protagonists—Pedro, Rafa, and Luna—who are tasked with defending their city. Each character is intriguing and relatable in their own right. Pedro, the loud and humorous influencer who can’t resist a good aesthetic, immediately won my heart. His struggles with identity and racism helped me connect deeply; I appreciated how Rivera portrayed his experiences in a way that felt genuine and familiar. Rafa, the quieter introvert burdened by familial expectations, struck a chord with me as he wrestles with the need to protect his sister. And then there’s Luna, a fierce but guarded character, navigating grief while striving to reconnect with herself.
However, as much as I loved these individual characters, the connection between them left me wanting. Their dynamics felt choppy, almost like a collection of interesting stories rather than a cohesive narrative. The multiple points of view added an element of disjointedness, making it hard for me to fully invest in their collective mission. And let’s talk about the romance—it felt rushed and didn’t have the emotional weight I hoped for.
Despite these setbacks, Rivera’s writing pulsates with heart, and there are moments that truly shine. The reflections on police brutality and racial injustice are powerful and timely. For instance, Pedro’s poignant encounter with racist teens at his job elicited empathy; I found myself cheering for him as he responded with both wit and dignity. These scenes not only rendered the narratives relatable but offered solace to readers who may share similar experiences: “Hey, I see you, and your struggle matters.”
Another highlight was Rivera’s vibrant portrayal of iconic Los Angeles landmarks that I know so well. The descriptions brought me back to my own adventures in the city, which was a delightful touch that drew me in even further. Quoting Rivera: “A radical change is about to be imposed on this planet, and to hide from it is to be complicit…” highlights the core theme of the novel—standing up against oppression instead of retreating.
In the end, while We Light Up the Sky didn’t completely capture my heart, it ignited my curiosity and set the stage for what could be a phenomenal sequel. With its emphasis on Latinx representation and systemic issues, it has the potential to spark significant conversations among readers. If you’re looking for a thought-provoking read that’s equal parts fun and socially relevant, this book is worth picking up—just be prepared for an ending that leaves you gasping and impatiently clamoring for more!
Thank you to the publishers and B2weird Book Tours for the finished copy in exchange for my honest review. If you’re looking for speculative fiction, a quick read, or a powerful message, I encourage you to check it out. I’m ready for the sequel—just please, no cliffhangers next time!