Airman by Eoin Colfer

Bibliography
Colfer, E. (2008). Airman. New York: Hyperion Books.

412 pages

Plot
Conor Broekhart’s life begins in the limelight. Born in a balloon, he is destined for great things. His mother is a scientist, hoping that Conor inherits her curiousity. His father, a captain and confidant to the king of Saltee Islands, provides Conor with a priviledged upbringing. Along with the princess, Conor grows up with a classical education, excelling in both weaponry and scientific theory. However, at 14 when Conor oversees the king’s murder, he is framed for the death and is sent to Little Saltee prison. In spite of these circumstances, Conor learns to use his wits and luck to survive, but when the opportunity presents himself, can Conor escape? Or will his luck run out?

Review
Airman is an exciting novel. Using classic thematic elements similar to that of Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo tweens will be kept at the edge of their seats wondering how Conor will adapt to his situations in life. Although the book is a bit long, it is important in that it details the extent to which Conor’s circumstances changed. Like Edmund Dantes, Conor must endure various abuses in prison, only to escape by the edge of his teeth. Afterwards both characters must come to terms with their newly found freedom and how to live life following their emancipation. Overall, an exciting well written novel, Colfer does not so much present an adaptation but more of homage to classic literature.

Genre
Adventure

Reading Level/Interest Level
This novel will appeal to readers in 5th through 7th grade.

Similar Content
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
Airborn by Kenneth Oppel

Personal thoughts
I really enjoyed this novel. I found it to be well written and fun.

Subjects/themes
Family
Coming of Age
Revenge
Isolation
Flying

Awards
Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal in 2008.

Series information
No known sequel.

Character names/descriptions
Conor Broekhart/Conor Finn: The protagonist, falsely accused of conspiracy to the king, is sent to prison

Isabella Trudeau: The Princess and heir to the Saltee Islands throne.

Declan Broekhart: Conor’s father and confidant to the king.

Victor Vigny: Conor’s teacher and mentor.

Linus Wynter: A blind American friend of Conor’s met in the Little Saltee prisons

Marshall Hugo Bonvilain: One of the guards of the king, and conspirator.

Annotation
Falsely imprisoned, Conor must forget the past and take to the skies.