Oppel, Kenneth. Skybreaker.

OPPEL, Kenneth. Skybreaker. (Sequel to Airborn.) HarperCollins. 544p. illus, c2006. 0-06053229-1. $6.99. JS

Matt Cruise and Kate de Vries are back. Matt is on an internship for his classes at the Airship Academy when the Hyperion is spotted. The Hyperion was the ship of an eccentric millionaire reported to have fabulous treasures on board. Matt and Kate team up with a gypsy girl with a key and a young handsome sky captain to pursue the Hyperion into the thin air above the normal limits for an airship. They soon discover strange creatures inhabit that region and that the treasure is a machine that produces the gas needed to fuel airships. (They also find out there is a load gold bullion hidden on board).

This can be read independent of the first volume, but most readers will want to go back to pick up the "rest of the story." For its length, this is a surprisingly quick read, with fascinating characters, situations, and plot twists. Recommend it to those wanting something a bit different, but still with plenty of action. Sherry Hoy, Lib. Media Spec., Tuscarora JHS, Mifflintown, PA

J--Recommended for junior high students. The contents are of particular interest to young adolescents and their teachers.

S--Recommended for senior high school students.