While catching up on some long-overdue book reviews, I decided it’s the perfect time to share one of my absolute favorites — Skyward by Brandon Sanderson. This marks the beginning of his brilliant YA sci-fi series, and honestly, I have nothing but praise for it.

At the time of writing, I’ve already devoured three out of the four books available, and I can’t wait to dive into the latest addition, Defiant. Let’s get into why Skyward left such a strong impact on me.

About Skyward: A Quick Glimpse

Here’s a snapshot of the story:

Humanity is on the brink of extinction, stranded on a planet under constant threat from alien starfighters. Among the survivors is Spensa, a teenage girl determined to defy the odds and become a pilot. Her discovery of an ancient, soul-infused spaceship might just be the key to realizing her dreams — if she can survive flight school, repair the ship, and earn its trust.

My Thoughts on Skyward

Plot: A Story That Grips You From the First Page

The plot of Skyward pulls you in from the very beginning — but what lies beneath the surface is even richer and more thrilling.

• Told from Spensa’s point of view, the story gradually unravels a deep and layered history.

• It’s not just about Spensa fixing a ship and learning to fly; it’s about uncovering the truths long buried in humanity’s past.

• Action-packed military sci-fi sequences keep the tension high. No character feels safe, which keeps readers on edge.

In short, Skyward masterfully balances a fast-paced, action-driven narrative with a meaningful emotional journey.

Setting: A Vivid World Without Overwhelming Jargon

Brandon Sanderson’s world-building shines, offering:

• Rich physical descriptions of the planet and battle scenes.

• A complex political system that’s easy to understand.

• No overwhelming tech-heavy jargon, making it perfect for readers who are new to sci-fi or prefer a more accessible approach.

Over time, we realize that the little pocket of the universe we start with is only a fraction of a much larger and more complicated galaxy. Sanderson sets the stage for the series in a spectacular way.

Characters: Imperfect, Relatable, and Full of Growth

At the heart of Skyward is Spensa, a character who is far from perfect — and that’s exactly what makes her so engaging.

• She struggles under the shadow of her father’s disgraced name.

• Her impulsiveness and fiery independence often get her into trouble.

• Over time, she learns valuable lessons about trust, leadership, and her own identity.

Supporting characters are equally well-developed, and every relationship feels genuine. There’s an excellent balance between character development and plot momentum — a true 50-50 blend that caters to fans of both action and deep, emotional storytelling.

Narrative Style: Approachable Yet Immersive

Sanderson nails the young adult voice without talking down to readers:

• Clear, straightforward prose that still feels rich and evocative.

• Twists and surprises are woven naturally into the story.

• At 528 pages, there’s plenty of substance, yet the pacing never drags.

Whether you’re an avid sci-fi reader or new to the genre, Skyward welcomes you with open arms and never makes you feel lost.

Why You Should Pick Up Skyward

If you’re looking for a sci-fi series that:

• Has an exciting plot without confusing technical jargon,

• Features a fierce, complex female protagonist,

• Blends thrilling action with meaningful character growth,

• And sets up a broader epic universe,

Then Skyward is the perfect next read for you.

Having read more books by Brandon Sanderson, I can confidently say: no matter the genre, he knows how to tell a phenomenal story. If you love his fantasy works, don’t hesitate to dive into his sci-fi worlds — you won’t be disappointed.

FAQs

Q1: Do you need to be a sci-fi expert to enjoy Skyward?

Absolutely not! Sanderson keeps technical details approachable, making it easy for readers unfamiliar with sci-fi to dive right in.

Q2: Is Skyward suitable for younger readers?

Yes, it’s written for a young adult audience. It deals with some serious themes like courage, fear, and resilience but in an age-appropriate way.

Q3: How many books are in the Skyward series?

As of now, there are four books: Skyward, Starsight, Cytonic, and Defiant.

Q4: What stands out most about Skyward compared to other sci-fi books?

Its balance! Skyward blends a rich world, relatable characters, and high-stakes action without bogging readers down in overly complex jargon.

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Chandler

Chandler is an avid automobile enthusiast who is passionate about all things on wheels. From the latest car models to classic vintage rides, I love exploring the automotive world’s intricate details and engineering marvels. With years of experience in test-driving, reviewing, and analyzing cars, I provide readers with comprehensive insights and honest opinions.