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Cover of Starfall

Starfall

Mel Odom (1999)

SubgenreSword & Sorcery
Age groupMiddle Grade 8-12
Content ratingPG
Pages (Standard (250-400))
SeriesDeathlands #45
Setting
CSM age10

Content levels

ViolenceNone
Sexual contentNone
LanguageNone

Trigger warnings

Parental Pressure

Hero archetypes

Coming-of-Age Hero

Synopsis

Before he became the captain of the U.S.S. Enterprise... Jean-Luc Picard has failed his entrance exam to Starfleet Academy. Now all his plans for the future are gone, and he must make the best of his life in his parents' vineyard. Pressure from his father to become more involved in the family business and the constant fighting with his older brother, Robert, make this life difficult. Jean-Luc's best friend, Louis, tries to cheer him up with an exciting trip, but the future captain's dream of the stars still haunts him.... When a chance to re-apply to the Academy arises, Jean-Luc must use all his skills to pass the challenging tests. But the greatest risk he faces is the wrath of his father. Will Jean-Luc turn his back on his family as he aims for the stars?

Is Starfall appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 10 and up.

A gentle coming-of-age story about a young man choosing between family obligations and his dream to join Starfleet Academy. Features family conflict and the pressure of pursuing one's goals despite setbacks.

What to know going in

This book has no graphic violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include parental pressure.

Who'll love this

Fans of Star Trek will enjoy learning how young Jean-Luc Picard dealt with failure and family struggles before becoming a famous captain.

Tags

Tie-in FictionScience Fiction CrossoverCharacter Backstory