Galaxy of Fear: Eaten Alive
Galaxy of Fear: Eaten Alive by John Whitman
—–
Full disclosure: I wasn’t expecting much out of this series of books. I knew going into them that they were an attempt to cash in on the popularity of Goosebumps, so I figured they would be a little cheesy and ridiculous. Eaten Alive reassured me that yes, they would be just that, but I also found that it’s a pretty solid read, too.
The series is about Zak and Tash Arranda, survivors of Alderaan, traveling with their uncle, Hoole, a shapeshifting alien, and DV-9, their droid. Hoole is secretive (the kids don’t even know his first name), and DV-9 has become their de facto caretaker, but they travel somewhat randomly through the universe. Their travels take them to D’vouran, where people are mysteriously disappearing, and that’s where this book begins.
The characterization in this book is good, and the plot, while simplified, is decent. It’s no Jude Watson, understand, but Whitman does more showing than telling in the story, which, in my experience, is rare in juvenile works. Also, the plot resolution involves parts of the story that have been revealed previously in the story, which is always nice; nothing spoils a story for me like an important detail that only becomes clear when it’s needed to wrap up a conflict.
I’ve heard that the key to happiness is lowering your expectations, and Eaten Alive shows this might be true. Had I gone into the series expecting an equivalent to Jedi Apprentice, I would have been disappointed, but it’s nice to be surprised when you’re expecting a poor story. I’m not sure I would recommend the series to anyone but the most die-hard of Star Wars fans, but it’s off to an entertaining start.
Started: December 26, 2017
Finished: December 26, 2017
Shelf Indulgence 
Leave a comment