Common Sense Media Review
By Julian Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Skyward spinoff soars in exciting series opener.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In BLIGHTFALL, the Defiant Defense Force (DDF) and their alien allies are victorious over the oppressive interstellar empire known as the Superiority. In this new era, diplomatic peacekeeping missions to other human populated planets have become the top priority. DDF pilot Arturo Mendez is promoted as the new flight leader of Skyward Flight. For him, he hopes to find meaning in his purpose as a starfighter pilot in a time of peace before he's grounded for good. Meanwhile, fellow DDF pilot Sadie Chay hopes to evolve past her inexperience and prove herself. They are assigned on another routine diplomatic escort mission to the undiscovered human-populated planet of Blightfall. However, Arturo and his squadron are not prepared for the secrets that await them on the planet's surface.
Is It Any Good?
Blightfall is an exciting, action-packed return to Brandon Sanderson's Skyward universe that's full of curiosity and humor. Co-written with Janci Patterson, the story introduces a new galactic landscape with familiar and new heroes. Arturo Mendez and Sadie Chay share the spotlight, as chapters alternate their dual perspectives. Arturo is a duty-bound fighter pilot who fears the idea of moving up in the ranks will make him leave behind his starfighter pilot identity and hopes to overcome his hesitation to be in committed relationship. Sadie is the more upbeat and energetic heart of the story whose determination to become an accomplished pilot doesn't fade as her feelings for Arturo's best friend Nedd grow. The narrative takes it's time for readers to get introduced to the new Skyward Flight team before the central conflict unfolds. Those new to the world of Skyward will be pulled in by the weight of the revealed secrets while longtime fans will be shocked and surprised. Like all science fiction, this series starter mirrors societal topics such as dating across lines of difference, societal expectations, economic struggles, identity, and human behavior. The release of Blightfall coincides with the announcement of a new television series adaptation of Skyward. Blightfall is a worthy follow up to the original series for fans and an entertaining entry point for newcomers. Both will eagerly await the sequel.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how characters have good communication, lots of courage, and work as a team in Blightfall. When their diplomatic escort mission to the planet goes wrong, what helps Arturo and his squadron work together to unravel the planet's mysteries and survive some its hostile inhabitants? When have you had to work to get through a tough time or a crisis?
Talk about the personal relationships that develop in this story. How do these relationships affect their adventures?
Have you read other science fiction novels or series? How does this compare? Will you read more scifi in the future?
Book Details
- Authors :
- Illustrators : Robert Ball , Ben McSweeney
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Adventures , Fantasy ( Monsters ) , Friendship , Space
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Delacorte Press
- Publication date : September 1, 2026
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 18
- Number of pages : 496
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle, App
- Last updated : August 31, 2026
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