Book Review: If Then: A Thrilling Young Adult Sci-Fi Fantasy Adventure (Virago Trilogy)
If you’ve ever gazed at a vast sky and wondered about the worlds beyond, Carol B. Allen’s If Then will have you dreaming, heart racing, and mind racing even more. As the second installment in the Virago Trilogy, this book captivated me not just with its high-stakes intrigue, but with its richly woven themes of environmental sustainability, friendship, and self-discovery.
In If Then, we reunite with 17-year-old Parker Kittredge, who must navigate the turbulent dynamics of Spyridon’s Upperworld and Underworld. The stakes couldn’t be higher: the fate of the planet hangs by a thread, and only Parker and her friends, Edison and Henley, can tackle the devastating climate crisis and civil war threatening their beloved world. Allen expertly weaves a tale that feels all too relevant in our Echo Chamber of climate discussions. I found myself reflecting on the fragile state of our real planet while absorbed in Parker’s quests and trials.
What truly resonated with me was Parker’s journey of self-acceptance as the unwilling Sky Queen. Allen does an exceptional job portraying her uncertainty and growth, eloquently capturing the essence of teenage struggles—finding one’s identity, dealing with loss, and the complexities of first love. There’s a beautiful moment where Parker listens to the voice of the deceased King Stefanos, who reassures her, “You are the one, Parker. You will make sure our plant will survive. You must believe in yourself.” This quote stayed with me long after I put the book down, echoing the profound message: we all hold power within us, often greater than we realize.
The pacing of the novel is brisk, enhancing the reader’s sense of urgency, mirroring the dire circumstances the characters find themselves in. Allen’s narrative style is vivid and immersive, allowing me to easily picture the Upperworld skies and the often treacherous Underworld landscapes. I felt as if I were trekking alongside Parker and her crew, experiencing their triumphs and heartbreaks.
I can’t forget the unique friendships that blossom in this tumultuous setting. The banter and loyalty among Parker, Edison, and Henley reminded me of the camaraderie I cherish among my own friends, making each character feel relatable and genuine. Their journeys are rich with emotional depth and provide ample moments of laughter, tension, and reflection.
If Then isn’t just a book; it’s a call to action for young readers. It’s perfect for teenagers and young adults who crave adventure, enjoy speculative fiction, and are passionate about environmental issues. Readers who loved The Hunger Games or Divergent will find themselves equally ensnared in this world where friendships can feel like life vests in a stormy sea.
In conclusion, Allen’s novel left me with a bittersweet sense of hope—one can fight for change, even in the unlikeliest of circumstances. If you desire a story that blends thrill with meaningful themes and complex characters, If Then is waiting for you. Remember, every adventure starts with a leap of faith; you just need to take that first step into Spyridon. Happy reading!
You can find If Then: A Thrilling Young Adult Sci-Fi Fantasy Adventure (Virago Trilogy) here >>