Falling Sky
Following a devastating world war, the surface of the planet has been covered in a substance called Dust, a weapon that can break down the physical make up of entire cities, reducing them to rubble and preventing citizens from rebuilding their lost metropolises for several years. In order to survive, humanity has taken refuge in crowded, underground cities.
Ian Blum is a 15 year old boy living in one such city. His crippling social anxiety confines him to a solitary life at home, while his parents are away at their jobs. The person he interacts with the most is his home school professor, Michael Wasley. One night, Ian is visited by a mysterious figure in a dream. The man warns Ian of a great earthquake that will destroy the cities, killing all of the inhabitants. The man charges Ian with the task of getting everyone out.
Soon after, Ian finds out that he isn't the only one who has had this dream and reluctantly joins a group of rebels who has made it their mission to drive everyone from the cities for their own safety, however, no one believes in the stranger's prophecy. Ian and the rebels must find a way to get the people to safety at any cost.
“There's a lot of punch in this short novel from James Patrick Riser.”
- Books in the Hall
“The novella (just 79 pages) is a quick read and an enjoyable way to spend an hour or so--and I like the fact that Riser left it open for a sequel. I'm looking forward to reading more of Ian Blum and the adventures he's still likely to encounter.”
- Straight from the Library
“Mr. Riser created a very complex world that should satisfy the inner geek in all of us..”
- Becki Gylberte
“It was easy to fall into the scenes - as if one were really there. The story moved along well, and offered enough unexpected twists and turns to keep it interesting.”
- Bookworm for Kids
