Module 8: Airborn

Bibliography
Oppel, K. (2006) Airborn. 
Solon, OH: Findaway World.
Summary
In this science fiction novel from a future time, Matt Cruse enjoys his role as a menial worker on the Aurora, the airship his father manned before his death.  Matt sends money home to his mother and sister and dreams of becoming someone important on the airship.  When Matt witnesses and listens to the story of an old man who barely makes a safe landing to come aboard the Aurora one night, his curiosity is piqued.  Then, he sees one of the creatures the old man spoke of before he dies.  They are strange creatures indeed.  Matt, along with a beautiful rich young passenger, solve the mystery of the creatures and save the airship from pirates.
My Impression
This was the first science fiction I have ever read, or listened to.  I borrowed the Playaway version from my local library.  Even though I have always said I do not like science fiction or fantasy books I loved this story.  Yes, it was outlandish, but the plot of the story was well written and the relationships and story were developed and well written.
Reviews
School Library Journal
"Once in a long while, an adventure story captures the mind and the heart of listeners/readers, creating a miniature world that makes a deep impression on them. Such is the case with Kenneth Oppel's Printz Honor Book (Eos, 2004) which weaves a magical tale of adventure, treachery, friendship, and courage. Taking place in a future where airships and blimps travel across the Atlanticus and the Pacificus Oceans, cabin boy Matt Cruse, on board the Aurora, battles pirates and prehistoric cloudcats, accompanied by spirited heiress Kate DeVries. A cast of 32 actors, including high school sophomore David Kelly (as the voice of Matt Cruse), delivers riveting narration and excellent vocal special effects (such as the ship's captain speaking through his radio). Full of fun, adventure, and heart, Airborn makes for a one-of-kind listening experience. Fans of period history, science fiction, and adventure will cheer Matt along. This ALSC 2007 Notable Recording and YALSA 2007 Selected Audiobook for Young Adults is a must for young adult collections."
Use in Library
Airborn would be a good read to introduce young students to fantasy fiction.  The young characters would appeal to young teens.  Students could brainstorm other creatures using a combination of various animals.
Review. (2007, March). [Review of the book Airborn, by Kenneth Oppel]. School Library Journal. Available from:  http://libproxy.library.unt.edu:2104/ehost/detail?vid=10&hid=17&sid=70c5da72-abd1-4cfd-a56f-58b3945173c9%40sessionmgr4&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZSZzY29wZT1zaXRl#db=a9h&AN=24321124
Image from: http://www.kennethoppel.ca/pages/books/airborn_reviews.shtml