A Starry Farewell: My Thoughts on Stars Above
When the chance to dive back into Marissa Meyer’s beloved Lunar Chronicles universe appeared in the form of Stars Above, it felt like reuniting with old friends after a long absence. As an ardent fan who relished the intricate fairy tale retellings and the rich, diverse characters from the series, this collection promised emotional closure and fresh insights. Meyer’s ability to weave adventure with poignant themes always captivated me, so naturally, I couldn’t resist the gravitational pull of this new anthology.
The stories in Stars Above serve as a tapestry, interlacing the backstories of familiar faces while elegantly wrapping up loose ends from the series. With six enchanting tales, including two brand new ones, Meyer invites us back into the heart of her imaginative world—a universe filled with fierce heroines, intricate plots, and the shadowy presence of love and sacrifice.
One of my favorites, “The Keeper,” offers a glimpse into the life of Michelle Benoit, a character whose strength and resilience profoundly affects Cinder’s journey. This story showcases how connections shape destinies, a theme that resonates throughout the collection. In “Glitches,” we witness Cinder’s initial struggles and triumphs, where her journey towards self-acceptance mirrors the exploration of identity many of us embark on.
Meyer’s prose is as snappy and engaging as ever, making it difficult to pause between stories. The pacing allows each tale to stand independently while maintaining a cohesive narrative thread that binds them together. I particularly enjoyed the innovative storytelling technique in “The Mechanic,” where Kai’s perspective on his first encounter with Cinder provides depth to their evolving relationship. Moments like these tug at your heartstrings as you realize just how much nuance is layered into their romance.
One standout tale is “The Little Android,” a beautifully poignant retelling of The Little Mermaid that tackles deep themes of love and sacrifice amidst a backdrop of science fiction. It left me in tears, reminding me that even androids can hold human-like emotions and yearnings. The sheer depth of this story elevates it beyond mere supplement to the series; it explores what it means to truly live and love in a world rife with challenges.
Meyer effortlessly infuses humor across the collection, particularly in the delightful “Carswell’s Guide to Being Lucky.” Thorne’s antics and wry observations make readers chuckle, providing light-hearted moments amid the heavier themes. Each character shines with their own voice, revealing complexities that enrich our understanding of them. The audiobook narration by Soler also deserves applause, as she brings each character vividly to life.
By the time I reached the emotional conclusion—“Something Old, Something New”—I felt a mix of nostalgia and satisfaction. This epilogue not only grants closure to the narrative arcs but also teases a hopeful future for our favorite characters. It encapsulates everything we’ve grown to love about the Lunar Chronicles: resilience, friendship, and the enchanting power of love.
In conclusion, Stars Above is a must-read for anyone who cherishes the Lunar Chronicles. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just dipping your toes into Meyer’s magical world, this collection serves both as a comforting reminder of what once was and an exciting promise of what could be. For those who revel in character-driven narratives intertwined with fantasy, this book adds layers to an already rich storytelling landscape and likely will stay with you long after you close the cover. As for me, I walked away feeling full, like I had just shared a cozy evening with friends who would always hold a special place in my heart.
You can find Stars Above here >>