The Antunite Chronicles, Book 1By Terry Birdgenaw
© May 16, 2022, Cyborg Insect Books
190 pages
ASIN: B0B1KWFF24
This story was…unique. While it did remind me at times of Adrian Tchaikovsky’s Children of Time series, Antuna’s Story was written more simply, without the deeper sophistication of Tchaikovsky’s storytelling style. That’s not to say Birdgenaw’s story isn’t deep. It is. But it’s almost as if Birdgenaw intended the story for young readers, mid-grade maybe—except there are some exceptionally dark threads to this tale (no spoilers) that I wouldn’t expect to see in a mid-grade story. The book is listed as a Teen & Young Adult book, which would be a better fit for those challenging elements, yet the simplistic writing style seems at odds with that audience. In truth, it was that mid-grade style that makes me say this story was not for me only because I had a hard time connecting to the narrative style.
That said, I will agree that this story has a lot to offer. It starts off light, hopeful. Its characters struck me as akin to middle school kids from very different backgrounds that, through extenuating circumstances, become friends. Over the course of the story, as the characters age and take on more responsible roles in their society, it morphs into a darker, more dramatic tale wherein I found reflections of what is currently happening in our world. I daresay this was not an accident; Antuna, the main character, is clearly a believer in inter-species cooperation and that working together in unity makes their world better for everyone. Unfortunately, there are other groups of characters who don’t agree, and they hold more power than Antuna. (Sound familiar?)
The author clearly states (on the copyright page) that this is a book of political satire or parody. While the disclaimer also says that the opinions and views of the insectoid characters “are their own, and should not be attributed to the author,” the book’s dedication is given to those victimized by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and to “casualties in all wars throughout human history.” It felt clear to me that Antuna’s actions would reflect those of the author, which is commendable in my opinion. I, too, would have followed Antuna in her efforts toward peace.
I can see how this would be a cautionary tale and a lesson in compassion for younger readers but would advise parents or guardians to read the book themselves first, to be sure the book is suitable, due to those darker elements I mentioned earlier. Keep in mind that the prologue in the book makes it clear that the ending of Antuna’s Story is not the ending of the tale, so there is more to come, a hopeful future that helps the reader to believe Antuna’s efforts bore fruit despite all her challenges. If you enjoy political parody or satire told in simplistic ways, or if your young reader is suited to dark tales of that type, I recommend Antuna’s Story, and possibly its sequels, for your reading list.