Thank you to Random House Children's and Netgalley for providing me with an egalley of this book to read and give my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Unfortunately, I did not download this in time to review initially. But I was fortunate enough to find an ARC in my print collection to read and give a review.
I don't do much middle grade now but once in a while I like to delve in as it's easier reading and breaks up my more in depth books. This book did just that. The cover of this one is what initially drew me it. It's just beautiful.
I loved the steampunk aspect of this book so much. I really enjoy books that include this trope. I haven't seen much steampunk directed at this age group so it was nice to have this to read.
The writing is done well. Easy to follow. Especially for the age group for which it is written. And Johnson does a good job with pacing for the most part.
There is something very unique about the world Johnson builds. I love a good fantasy and the train aspect was spot on with something different to draw me in and keep my attention. I loved the idea of things falling from other worlds but definitely would have liked to see more exploration with this. Given it's a middle grade book, I can see how the author may not have wanted to get that intense with it though as it may be more confusing for the age group at which it's targeted.
Johnson built strong female characters, which I love for this age group. Girls who show they can do just what they set their minds to do. I love to see this for young ladies who are trying to figure out who they are and where they belong amongst their peers.
Overall it was an enjoyable read and I'm excited to put my copy in a free little library for others to enjoy!

I'm sorry I was not able to read and review this book before it was archived, due to serious health issues.

This was a unique and interesting book. I did not realize before reading that it was steampunk. Steampunk is not typically a genre I prefer to read, but I rather enjoyed this story. I especially liked the characters and the 401, which seemed like a character itself. I was rooting for Anna, Piper, Gee and the others throughout the book. I also liked the unique world in which the story was set. I found the concept of the meteor showers and scrap towns very interesting. I also liked the more fantastical characters like the chamelins and the sarnuns, though I wish there was a little bit more world building around these characters. Even though I did find some parts of the book a bit predictable, it was fast paced and kept my interest throughout.

Book, when I saw your beautiful golden green dragonfly cover you caught my eye. The promises of steam train adventures, political intrigue and personal secrets pulled me in, but it was your compassion for the lonely and the oppressed, your sense of humor and your Secret Reveals that really won my heart. I’ll be the Zoe Washburne to your Captain Mal any day!

My book discussion group enjoyed this book thoroughly. A couple of readers came back and asked to read the sequel.

I read this book with one of my daughters. We really enjoyed the pace and intrigue within the book. My daughter really connected with Piper. She loves to tinker and fix things and felt like she could be Piper. She couldn't wait to find out what came next and what would happen to Piper and her journey with Anna.

The world that was built in the story is one that readers can feel like they are a part of. As the story kept building, there were a lot of elements that keep the reader engaged and wanting to continue. Jaleigh Johnson's writing is expressive, yet simple enough for kids of all ages to understand the story. This is one we couldn't wait to read the next book in the series