Review of Ben Archer and the Cosmic Fall: The Alien Skill Series, Book 1
By Rae Giffen
When I first stumbled upon Ben Archer and the Cosmic Fall, I was instantly intrigued. The concept of a young boy finding himself entangled in a cosmic mystery involving UFOs and superpowers felt like a delightful echo of the adventurous tales I grew up loving. Rae Giffen has crafted a world that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, and I couldn’t wait to dive headfirst into Ben Archer’s exhilarating journey.
The story kicks off with astonishing immediacy when Ben witnesses UFOs crashing near his grandfather’s home, a thrilling event that thrusts him into chaos. As if that weren’t enough, he discovers he has inherited a superpower from a dying alien named Mesmo—a captivating twist that fulfills every childhood fantasy of becoming extraordinary. The narrative is rich with themes of friendship, courage, and the quest for identity, which resonate with readers of all ages. I found myself rooting for Ben, whose youthful determination and innocence navigate terrifying challenges and even more terrifying enemies.
Giffen’s writing style strikes a wonderful balance; it’s engaging but accessible, making it a perfect fit for its middle-grade audience yet compelling enough for older readers to enjoy. From the outset, the pacing was rapid and exhilarating. I found myself turning pages late into the night, sharing in Ben’s urgency to uncover the truth behind the Cosmic Fall. The world-building is impressive, with thrilling descriptions of alien landscapes and intricate plot twists that kept me guessing. One reviewer even described it as “super engaging like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson,” which I wholeheartedly agree with—the magic of storytelling is palpable here.
Another notable aspect is the delightful cast of characters, especially Mesmo, whose relationship with Ben adds emotional depth to the narrative. Their bond reminds us that friendship can come in the most unexpected forms. A poignant quote that lingered with me was Ben’s reflection on trust: “Even among strangers, companionship can bloom.” This sentiment resonated deeply with me, highlighting the importance of connection in our ever-changing lives.
As the book fetched glowing testimonials from readers—from middle-schoolers to adults—it’s clear that Giffen’s work transcends age barriers. People like Tiberiu Zbirnea praised it for capturing the spirit of adventure, while others noted the book’s clean yet exciting content, making it suitable for families to read together. It’s this universal appeal that makes Ben Archer and the Cosmic Fall a must-read.
Overall, I can enthusiastically recommend this book to anyone looking for a riveting escape. Young adults, families, and lovers of science fiction alike will find themselves drawn into Ben’s world. It’s a narrative filled with hope, discovery, and the timeless theme of courage in the face of adversity. Ben Archer and the Cosmic Fall isn’t just a story about aliens and superpowers; it’s a heart-pounding reminder of the extraordinary potential that lies within each of us—the perfect blend of adventure and introspection that will surely resonate long after the last page is turned.
If you’re in the mood for an exhilarating ride filled with suspense, humor, and heart, Rae Giffen’s charming debut will capture your imagination and leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment. Happy reading!
You can find Ben Archer and the Cosmic Fall: (The Alien Skill Series, Book 1) here >>