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54 pages 1 hour read

Airborn

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

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Kenneth Oppel

Airborn

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

501

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Airship • 1910s

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

Airborn by Kenneth Oppel is a Young Adult steampunk adventure novel set in an alternate history world, following Matt Cruse, a cabin boy on the airship Aurora. Along with passenger Kate de Vries, Matt discovers a mysterious creature on a Pacific island while dealing with air pirates, class conflicts, and personal loss. The story delves into themes of exploration, adventure, and resilience. This story contains instances of violence, death, and themes of grief, sexism, and classism.

Adventurous

Exciting

Romantic

Fantastical

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

26,793 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Kenneth Oppel's Airborn captivates readers with its imaginative, high-flying adventure and well-crafted characters. Praised for its vivid world-building and fast-paced narrative, the book appeals to both young adults and older readers alike. Some critics note, however, that certain plot elements may feel predictable. Overall, it is a delightful blend of adventure and fantasy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Airborn?

Readers who enjoy adventure-filled, steampunk-style narratives like Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials series or Jules Verne's Around the World in Eighty Days will be captivated by Kenneth Oppel's Airborn. Ideal for young adult fans of imaginative world-building and fast-paced plotlines.

4.4

26,793 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Matt Cruse

A 15-year-old cabin boy on the airship Aurora, Matt is dedicated, knowledgeable about airships, and aspires to become an airship captain one day. He forms strong bonds with fellow adventurer Kate de Vries and is guided by his mentor, Captain Walken.

A first-class passenger aboard the Aurora, Kate is adventurous and determined to prove the validity of her late grandfather's journal entries. Her curiosity and desire for knowledge often draw Matt into her explorations.

The captain of the airship Aurora, Walken is a calm and confident leader who serves as a mentor to Matt, offering guidance and support in challenging situations.

An air pirate and primary antagonist, Szpirglas is theatrical yet ruthless, using a facade of civility to mask his violent intentions. His actions and stories contrast with Matt's own experiences aboard the Aurora.

A junior sailmaker and son of the Aurora’s owner, Bruce initially rivals Matt both professionally and romantically but ultimately becomes an ally. He represents class divides, with his privilege allowing him advantages that conflict with Matt’s hands-on experience.

Book Details
Pages

501

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Airship • 1910s

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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