The Planet Thieves

Mason Stark and other students from Earth's Space Academy find themselves thrust into real combat when their training vessel is attacked by the mysterious Tremist, humanity's alien enemies. At thirteen years old, Mason must step up from trainee to warrior as events spiral beyond his control. The story centers on Mason's efforts to protect his ship and crew while uncovering secrets about both the Tremist and humanity's own military. The narrative moves through space battles, internal ship conflicts, and revelations about an ancient weapon that could change the course of the war. This middle-grade science fiction adventure explores themes of loyalty, leadership, and the cost of war through the eyes of young characters forced to grow up quickly. The book raises questions about the nature of conflict and whether enemies are truly as different as they seem.

Readers found this middle-grade sci-fi novel to be fast-paced and action-packed, with many comparing it to Ender's Game but for a younger audience. The space combat scenes and military training sequences resonate with young readers. Likes: - Quick-moving plot that hooks reluctant readers - Clear, straightforward writing style - Detailed space battle descriptions - Strong character development of protagonist Mason Dislikes: - Some found the plot predictable - Adult readers note less complexity compared to YA sci-fi - Several mention wanting more world-building - A few readers cite similarity to other space cadet stories Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (50+ reviews) Common Sense Media: 4/5 "Perfect for kids who love action but aren't ready for heavy sci-fi," notes one teacher reviewer on Goodreads. Multiple parent reviews mention it as a "gateway book" that got their children interested in science fiction.

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Avalon by Mindee Arnett A teenage mercenary discovers dangerous secrets about her employer during missions aboard a spaceship with her crew of fellow thieves.

The Comet's Curse by Dom Testa Two hundred teenagers pilot a spacecraft to establish a new civilization after a cosmic disaster threatens Earth's population.

Jupiter Pirates: Hunt for the Hydra by Jason Fry Three siblings compete to become the next captain of their family's spaceship while conducting privateering missions between the planets.

The True Meaning of Smekday by Adam Rex A girl forms an alliance with an alien outcast during an interplanetary invasion to rescue her mother from a space station.

🚀 Author Dan Krokos wrote The Planet Thieves when he was just 25 years old, after working as a security guard and retail employee. 🛸 The book features advanced technology like "gravBoots," which allow characters to manipulate gravity and walk on walls or ceilings. ⭐ The story takes place in 2800, aboard a military space vessel called the SS Egypt, where 13-year-old cadets train for future service. 🌍 The novel draws inspiration from classic military science fiction like Ender's Game and Starship Troopers, but aims for a younger audience. 🎮 Before becoming an author, Krokos spent much of his time playing video games, which influenced the action sequences and world-building in the novel.