What if airplanes had never been invented? What if all the technological innovation of the early 20th century had gone into perfecting air travel in huge airships kept aloft by a gas called hydrium that was even lighter than hydrogen?
In Kenneth Oppel’s alternative history Airborn, the Aurora is just such an airship, larger and more luxurious than the Titanic. And Matt is a cabin boy on the Aurora. He has no fear of heights and feels he was born to fly an airship, particularly the Aurora, his home. As the novel begins, Matt’s airship encounters a hot air balloon and its pilot on a trip to circumnavigate the globe. However, the balloon is in distress, and Matt must rescue the pilot at the risk of his own life.
This rescue is just the beginning of Matt’s adventures. He and his friend Kate search for an almost mythical creature, explore an island, and fight air pirates–while attempting to remain just friends. The book was sheer fun and adventure, with a little romance thrown in, and a satisfying ending. Oppel’s website says he’s working on a sequel; I hope it’s as good as the first one.
Oh, almost forgot, Camille at Book Moot recommended this one, too.