Randoms (1)

This is not your typical story of good guys vs. bad guys. Because in this story the good guys aren’t always good, sometimes they just aren’t as bad as the bad guys. Hmm, maybe it is more typical than we think. “Randoms” is young adult sci-fi book exploring themes of peer pressure, rejection, and young love between humans and between humans and aliens. At the same time Liss explores the very adult themes of corruption and treason setting his story in an alien confederation on the home station at the seat of government. While there is plenty for young adults, it is perhaps all too easy to find parallels to modern political greed and corruption as we find that human nature remains basically unchanged whether it is human or alien. The government officials tend to be more concerned with public perception than with justice and fairness, and it becomes a lesson for our young hero in all types of relationships: peers, romantic, parental, and political. Liss has crafted a wonderful plot that, while not as complex as an adult thriller, still offers several twists. He has intermingled bits and pieces from other sci-fi franchises and used a clever plot device to make these references fit seamlessly into the story. His real strength is the characterization and he is as masterful at building sympathy for strange aliens as he as building it for his human characters. The book is a fun read, and it is well written; he keeps the reader turning pages until all too soon we reach the end.

My 6th grader (who doesn't like to read) had to read this book over the summer before starting middle school. When he first saw the size he was intimidated but after starting the book he fell in love with the story and how it was written. Great book and he is looking forward to the next one.

This may be a middle-grade science fiction novel, but it should make a great read for all ages, especially those with a history in sci-fi/fantasy and gaming fandoms, to which the book pays loving tribute, while still telling its own story. Our hero is plucked from Earth to discover the universe at large, make new friends and enemies, and maybe put some of his geeky knowledge to good use along the way.

So, this book was meant for middle school kids but I ending up stealing. Glad I did, I really enjoyed this book. It seems very long but worth it. I got hooked and finished in 3 days. Super fun and entertaining. You will not be disappointed. Enjoyed it so much I had to order the sequels.

A wonderful tale, aimed at the YA audience, but a good read for all ages.For us physically older but still young at heart readers, it's a treat - action, budding romance and a cast of non-stereotypical characters. The ending is clearly set up for a sequel, and I'm looking forward to it!

My son chose this book to read for a project and he loved it hes even found the other books that go with this one to keep reading thank you to the author

I did not dislike anything, I my favorite part was when Tamret and Zeke were talking together about each other. I recommend this book to my friend. 😉

Many plot twists and surprises...awesome book! Typical Liss wit, intelligence, great characters with great personalities. I recommend this book for adults as well as teens.