Rating: 4 out of 5
It is one of the most familiar stories of the 20th century. Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary, visits the newly acquired territory of Bosnia. There, in the city of Sarajevo, he and his wife are tragically killed by assassins. Their deaths became the catalyst that sparks the events that lead to the eruption of the First World War between Great Britain, France, Russia and their allies, against Germany, Austria-Hungary and their allies, a pivotal event that would change the subsequent history of the world forever.
This is the event which starts off Scott Westerfeld’s novel, Leviathan. But any similarity with that monumental historical event of 1914 ends there. In the book, the countries at war are divided not just according to political divisions but also by scientific philosophy. On one side are Germany and Austria-Hungary, also known collectively as the “Clanker” nations. Their society is based on reliance in mechanical technology where in this world, they have created innovative war machines, including various forms of steampunk versions of those famous Star Wars Imperial Walkers.
On the other side are the “Darwinists”, relying on the advancements in biology or, more precisely, genetic engineering. In this world Charles Darwin, not only formulated the Theory of Evolution, but taken his studies a little further and deciphered the genetic codes of all organisms. Using this knowledge, various creatures’ genes were manipulated into the purpose of the development of new species of animals that are tailor-made for the use of human society. This includes monsters that were developed for the purposes of war like the kraken, a gigantic octopus or squid (or possibly a combination of both!) that could crush a galleon in its tentacles, or bats that would eat metal-piercing darts and ‘drop’ them on a certain target. And then, there is the showcase of all, a large whale that is capable of floating in the sky and serve as a massive airship capable of bringing destruction to the enemy, of which one is named the Leviathan.
In this story, Archduke Franz Ferdinand leaves behind a son and heir, Aleksandar, of whose future and very life is placed into jeopardy upon his death. In order to save the boy, some of the Archduke’s loyal retainers devise a plan of escaping inside a Stormwalker and make a mad rush towards Switzerland before anybody is wiser.
Meanwhile in Britain, a young girl, Deryn Sharp, pretends to be a boy in hopes of being accepted into the British Air Service where she wishes to follow in the footsteps of her late father. She joins just in time as Great Britain finds herself embroiled in a coming war. And soon enough the stories of Alek and Deryn follow the same path where it seems that, for the moment, their futures are intertwined.
Scott Westerfeld created a story aimed at a young audience, but it is still an enjoyable story for readers of every age. The writing is simple and clear. And the two main characters are well fleshed out and interesting.
Westerfeld also plays with various themes. Firstly, while the story is based on his vision of an alternate past, he presents possible visions for the future, with mechanical wonders and genetically engineered creatures. He also gives readers a look at the present through the ideologies of the two warring sides. Through them, Westerfeld depicts the outlooks of two social philosophies: the conservative Clankers and the liberal Darwinists. It is particularly interesting to read the way each side views the other: the Darwinists sees the Clankers as somewhat backward, afraid of innovation and too much tied to tradition. While the Clankers see the Darwinists as irreverent, godless and playing at being God.
All in all, it is a wonderful story with very fine two main characters, and is very enjoyable to read. It doesn’t hurt that elements of steampunk are effortlessly integrated into the tale. In fact, it is probably one of the best stories which incorporates the said sub-genre of speculative fiction. If there is a downside to this, it is the fact that the reader can easily be immersed in the story, that it may seemingly end too quickly. It is the first book of a series, and Leviathan only sets things up. Leaving the reader fussing over when the next installment would arrive.
