Ameti Rising (Miro Chronicles 2) by Emily Arons

What worked:

Two aspects of this book differ from those of others. The setting is on a planet called Miro, and the humans harvest power from rocks called Orra. Humans had mismanaged natural resources on their former planet, so survivors fled to Miro. Conservation of nature is a primary focus, as the characters try to protect the climate, Orra, and all living things. Orro comes in different colors, and each one has unique powers and qualities. The second different thing about this book is that the characters can communicate with their partner animals. This is accomplished through collars the animals wear and their humans’ orbs. The orbs also connect the humans to AI partners that provide knowledge and guidance. One unexpected event arises in the first quarter of the book when Jimmy, the main character, is reunited with his loyal, brave, and always hungry otter, Otto.

Des, Jimmy’s uncle, was the antagonist in the first book, and the characters are well aware that he’s still lurking somewhere on the planet. He wants to control all of the Orra and become the most powerful person on Miro. Des is causing changes to landforms and the environment, and he’s begun controlling powerful packs of wild animals that threaten the natural balance. Complicating matters, Jimmy feels pressure to live up to his family’s legacy, continues to verbally spar with a rival, and he fears he might have similar characteristics to his uncle. Readers know that Jimmy and his friends, Derek and Tala, will stop Des’s latest plans before the book ends.

The plot moves quickly, which should appeal to most middle-grade readers, even reluctant ones. The chapters are fairly short, which works well for young readers with short attention spans. The story includes periodic reminders of what’s already happened, along with emphasis on what’s at stake. The setting is reminiscent of Earth with similar climates, familiar animals, and people mining for oil. The book teaches messages on conservation of nature and resources that apply to readers’ lives on Earth.

What didn’t work as well:

The downside to a story moving at a fast pace is that there tends to be a lack of description and details. There are parts where there’s a retelling of action rather than a description of what’s happening. There are jumps in time, and readers sometimes need to make assumptions and connections about missing information.

The final verdict:

This book is a wonderful example of speculative fiction that can be enjoyed by a wide range of middle-grade readers. It contains action, humor, drama, and character relationships that make the story appealing. I suggest you give this book a shot.