Atherton Home Page …

Book 1 – The House of Power: B

Atherton – The House of Power is the first book in a trilogy detailing the perilous and exciting events on the mysterious and wondrous world of Atherton. The story itself is fairly straightforward, following the exploits of the downtrodden boy named Edgar. But the real value and interest in Atherton comes from the explorations readers can make after the fact. Author Patrick Carman uses the internet to provide some background information and insights into Atherton and its creator, Dr. Harding. These additional layers add more texture to the story. And going a bit further, there’s some skillful social and philosophical commentary, as well as several direct connections between Dr. Harding and another famous mad scientist: Dr. Frankenstein.

Not bad for a book aimed for adolescents.

Book 2 – The Rivers of Fire: B+

Rivers of Fire is the second installment of the Atherton Trilogy from author Patrick Carman. It picks up immediately where its predecessor left off and hurtles foreword at often breakneck speeds – rushing to an inevitable conclusion which, despite its predictability, manages to be thoroughly satisfying thanks to the multiple layers of character, science, philosophy, and sociology. Make no mistake, this book isn’t an exceptionally deep exploration of these concepts, but their presence certainly adds enough layers to make the story about something more than just watching some characters struggle to survive in a new and ever-changing world.

Book 3 – The Dark Planet: B+

The Dark Planet is the third and final book in Patrick Carman’s Atherton series. In many respects, this installment is superior to its predecessors with characters that are far more compelling and vibrant. The narrative is focused and tightly paced. And the entire book has some important themes such as environmentalism and the importance of youthful innocence. Admittedly, though, The Dark Planet is a departure from the first two books – with various characters taking less prominent roles compared to newcomers. This is a benefit, however, and in the end, the full breadth and scope of the world designed by the mad scientist Dr. Harding is revealed to one and all.