Evergreen: A Space-Time Odyssey is about the collision between prophecy and legend in a world with cosmic upheaval looming in the balance. The characters are fully-rounded and well described. Each has a personality that anyone would find synergy with. I totally disagree with the last reviewer's claim that the book needs editing. I found it engaging not distracting in any way. The author weaves an allegory of what he calls "dominion"; that is, the struggle to be recognized as the dominant species in the face of overwhelming natural and cultural changes.

Much of the story centers around a character called "Gaia" whose journies take her through a metamorphosis from a small and meek creature into a multiform to be reckoned with, accompanied by her loyal friends along the way. I am reminded of Dorothy's companions in "The Wizard of Oz". The main thrust of the story is about the lack of civility between species and that their interactions, wars and abuses are signaling the advent of a natural event called "Kaleija", a cosmic change in the universe similar to our Global Warming. Life out of balance threatens to hasten its arrival, and all are affected. Gaia is recognized as a powerful symbol of both change and stability in a world overrun by inter-species tensions.

I would recommend that you read this rare adventure, not only because it creatively blends an updated secular passion play with science fiction elements, but also for its importance as a work of allegory to provide show more teachable moments about civility (starting with Ziner's engaging preface/sonnet titled "Dominion"). This book belongs in middle grade classrooms. show less