Title: Ender’s Shadow: Command School
Author: Mike Carey
First published April 7, 2010
120 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780785135982 (ISBN10: 0785135987)
Rating: 4.43
Overview
With Ender Wiggin out of the picture, Bean is now the top student at Battle School. As the authorities gear up to send Bean to Command School, they subject him to a grueling series of tests designed to push him to his limits.
But Bean is more than just a brilliant strategist–he’s also a survivor. As he navigates the treacherous waters of Battle School, Bean must stay one step ahead of his fellow students, who are all vying for a coveted spot at Command School.
Will Bean prove himself worthy of the title of commander, or will he fall victim to the ruthless competition? Find out in Ender’s Shadow: Command School.
About the Author
Mike Carey, a renowned comic book writer, was born in Liverpool in 1959. After working as a teacher for fifteen years, he pursued his passion for writing comics which eventually led to him receiving regular commissions from DC Comics.
He has also worked for Marvel Comics and has written storylines for some of the most iconic characters in the world of comics, including X-MEN, FANTASTIC FOUR, LUCIFER and HELLBLAZER. Mike has even adapted Neil Gaiman’s celebrated NEVERWHERE into comics.
Apart from his work, Mike manages to maintain a balance and spends time with his wife and children in North London. He is currently working on his original screenplay FROST FLOWERS which is being filmed.
To know more about his work and life, you can follow his blog.
Editoral Review
Ender’s Shadow: Command School by Mike Carey is a thrilling science fiction novel that will appeal to fans of the genre as well as those looking for an immersive and thought-provoking read. The book was first published on April 7, 2010, and is part of the larger Ender’s Game series by Orson Scott Card.
Carey takes on the monumental task of continuing the beloved story and delivers a tale that is both exciting and insightful. The story is set in a future where humans are locked in a war against an alien race known as the Formics.
The main character is Bean, a genetically engineered child-soldier who is part of a team of brilliant young tacticians working under the leadership of Ender Wiggin. Bean’s exceptional intelligence and unique background make him an asset to the team, but he soon discovers that his superiors have their own agendas, and his life may be in danger.
As Bean struggles to navigate the complex web of politics and alliances, he must also confront his own past and question the morality of the war he is fighting. One of the strengths of Ender’s Shadow: Command School is Carey’s ability to create vivid and memorable characters that readers can root for.
Bean is a fascinating protagonist, and his journey is compelling as he develops from a self-reliant and emotionally distant child to a leader who must balance his loyalty to his team with his own survival. Other characters, such as the enigmatic Achilles, add depth and complexity to the story.
The pacing of the novel is also impressive, as it keeps readers engaged and invested in the outcome. Carey expertly builds tension and suspense throughout the story, culminating in a thrilling and unexpected climax.
Additionally, the themes explored in the book such as the morality of war and the dangers of technological advancement are relevant and thought-provoking. However, there are some weaknesses in the book that are worth noting.
While the plot is strong overall, there are moments where the story feels rushed or disjointed, particularly towards the end. Additionally, some readers may find the technical aspects of the story such as the use of military jargon and references to advanced technology to be confusing or overwhelming.
Despite these flaws, Ender’s Shadow: Command School is a worthy addition to the Ender’s Game series, and fans of the original book will not be disappointed. Carey’s writing style is accessible and engaging, and his characters are complex and well-developed.
This book will appeal to readers who enjoy fast-paced and action-packed science fiction, as well as those who enjoy exploring deeper themes and questions of morality. Overall, I would highly recommend Ender’s Shadow: Command School to fans of the Ender’s Game series and to anyone looking for an immersive and thought-provoking read.
I would give this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, taking into account the strengths and weaknesses of the plot, characters, and themes. Regardless of its limitations, this novel is a must-read for anyone interested in the genre, and it will likely leave a lasting impression on readers long after they finish it.
