Review of
Aftershock
Published:
September 1996
Reviewer Rating:
Avg User Rating:
(3.11)
Leonard McCoy just wants to study for his metabolic stasis exam, but his dormmates talk him into a midnight game of touch football. It all goes south from there. After getting caught in a violation of Academy rules, McCoy is pushed to join the Disaster Relief Service Club. And if missing his winter break to train isn't enough, the Club is sent off to Playamar to aid in earthquake relief efforts. Even though he's got a cute girl on his team, the Vulcan kid is kind of annoying.
Recounting some of the Star Trek character's early years, this book spotlights the first meeting between McCoy and Spock - and even brief encounters with an annoying underclassman named Jim Kirk. Most of the characteristics readers are used to are already in place - McCoy has his short temper, Spock has his Vulcan logic, and their relationship has its bumpy moments. Vornholt has some fun with McCoy's dialogue and coming up with some of his great signature phrases. All of the building blocks of their future relationship is here.
This book really focuses on McCoy, and Spock is really just a supporting character here. It's great to get some insight into young McCoy and see what was driving him early, what his thoughts were like and how he might have viewed his future - in Starfleet or elsewhere. Readers definitely get a sense of his dedication to being a healer and helping people in general. While he's not overly thrilled with the heroics of the Disaster Relief club, he does respect the ideals of helping people in need. He shows that many times throughout this book in actions and words.
I feel this is actually a great book for young readers. It exposes them to the idea of giving of themselves to help others. In view of all the hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and other natural disasters that we face each year, this book provides a great first-hand look at what it might be like to be on a team rescuing people and providing aid. It's a worthwhile idea for every young person. Similarly, McCoy's desire to provide medical assistance to injured comrades even at risk of his own safety is a laudable example for young readers. This really could be a book that inspires a kid to become a doctor or first responder. It's not preachy in its presentation, but does provide the framework showing the worthwhile experience these professions can provide.
While it's not ranked among the greatest of all Star Trek novels, this short little book is great for kids just getting into Star Trek, or for fans looking for a deeper dive into the backgrounds of their favorite characters. It's a quick and enjoyable read that anyone can enjoy.
Recounting some of the Star Trek character's early years, this book spotlights the first meeting between McCoy and Spock - and even brief encounters with an annoying underclassman named Jim Kirk. Most of the characteristics readers are used to are already in place - McCoy has his short temper, Spock has his Vulcan logic, and their relationship has its bumpy moments. Vornholt has some fun with McCoy's dialogue and coming up with some of his great signature phrases. All of the building blocks of their future relationship is here.
This book really focuses on McCoy, and Spock is really just a supporting character here. It's great to get some insight into young McCoy and see what was driving him early, what his thoughts were like and how he might have viewed his future - in Starfleet or elsewhere. Readers definitely get a sense of his dedication to being a healer and helping people in general. While he's not overly thrilled with the heroics of the Disaster Relief club, he does respect the ideals of helping people in need. He shows that many times throughout this book in actions and words.
I feel this is actually a great book for young readers. It exposes them to the idea of giving of themselves to help others. In view of all the hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and other natural disasters that we face each year, this book provides a great first-hand look at what it might be like to be on a team rescuing people and providing aid. It's a worthwhile idea for every young person. Similarly, McCoy's desire to provide medical assistance to injured comrades even at risk of his own safety is a laudable example for young readers. This really could be a book that inspires a kid to become a doctor or first responder. It's not preachy in its presentation, but does provide the framework showing the worthwhile experience these professions can provide.
While it's not ranked among the greatest of all Star Trek novels, this short little book is great for kids just getting into Star Trek, or for fans looking for a deeper dive into the backgrounds of their favorite characters. It's a quick and enjoyable read that anyone can enjoy.
