Helpful Score: 2
The beginning of a long journey..., February 7, 1998
Reviewer: riffer@afn.org (Gainesville, FL)
"Caverns" is the first book in a (currently) four book series by Mr. O'Donnell. As the title implies, the focus is on a character named McGill Feighan. In this first book, the origin of McGill and the start of his adventerous life is revealed.
"Caverns" is at first a light-hearted read, but you soon find yourself drawn into the life of the hero, his triumphs and despair. McGill is a "flinger", a person who can teleport anything (himself, other people, things) anywhere that he's been before. But even for a flinger, he does not lead a normal life due to unusual events in his life, when he was a newborn. Much of the story revolves around McGill's growing-up and learning to deal with his powers, as well as the assortment of people and aliens that take an interest in his life (both good and bad).
Because it is the first novel in a series, there is not as much "adventure" as one may expect (or hope for). The story "jumps" a bit as McGill grows and this can make one feel like they have missed out on something. But the plot is still engrossing, as is O'Donnell's intriguing view of the future. If one is interested in the series as a whole, the books really MUST be read in order.
"Caverns", as well as the entire McGill Feighan series, is an excellent book both for young adults first getting info Science Fiction, as well as for long-time SF fans. And it's certainly a must for any Kevin O'Donnell, Jr. fan. A recommended read.
Reviewer: riffer@afn.org (Gainesville, FL)
"Caverns" is the first book in a (currently) four book series by Mr. O'Donnell. As the title implies, the focus is on a character named McGill Feighan. In this first book, the origin of McGill and the start of his adventerous life is revealed.
"Caverns" is at first a light-hearted read, but you soon find yourself drawn into the life of the hero, his triumphs and despair. McGill is a "flinger", a person who can teleport anything (himself, other people, things) anywhere that he's been before. But even for a flinger, he does not lead a normal life due to unusual events in his life, when he was a newborn. Much of the story revolves around McGill's growing-up and learning to deal with his powers, as well as the assortment of people and aliens that take an interest in his life (both good and bad).
Because it is the first novel in a series, there is not as much "adventure" as one may expect (or hope for). The story "jumps" a bit as McGill grows and this can make one feel like they have missed out on something. But the plot is still engrossing, as is O'Donnell's intriguing view of the future. If one is interested in the series as a whole, the books really MUST be read in order.
"Caverns", as well as the entire McGill Feighan series, is an excellent book both for young adults first getting info Science Fiction, as well as for long-time SF fans. And it's certainly a must for any Kevin O'Donnell, Jr. fan. A recommended read.
