Parents' Guide to Stone in the Sky: Tin Star, Book 2

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Common Sense Media Review

Michael Berry By Michael Berry , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 12+

Exciting sci-fi saga expands scope, adds depth to Tula.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 12+?

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Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

Having been beaten and left for dead on a space station by the treacherous Brother Blue, Tula Bane has found a way to survive in relative contentment. But when a fortune-making resource is discovered on the abandoned planet beneath the station, Tula finds herself again unmoored. She has to leave her allies and search for a new way to bring down Brother Blue, even if it means her own death.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

STONE IN THE SKY proves to be a satisfying follow-up to Tin Star, expanding the first book's scope and deepening the characterization of protagonist Tula Bane. The world building is well thought-out, and the mix of alien species provides plenty of conflict. Sometimes it seems a little convenient that, with an entire galaxy in which to wander, characters are able to reunite so easily. Most readers won't notice, though, as they'll be engrossed in the exciting plot and compelling character moments.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about charismatic leaders. How can they convince their followers to believe things that aren't true?

  • How does Stone in the Sky compare with other science-fiction books you've read? How is it different? How is it similar?

  • How can people (and aliens) find ways to communicate effectively with each other? What are some of the barriers that keep individuals from understanding each other?

Book Details

  • Author : Cecil Castellucci
  • Genre : Science Fiction
  • Topics : Adventures
  • Book type : Fiction
  • Publisher : Roaring Brook Press
  • Publication date : February 24, 2015
  • Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 18
  • Number of pages : 320
  • Available on : Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
  • Last updated : September 30, 2025

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