And that’s just the beginning of the mysteries and adventures posed by The Softwire: Virus On Orbis 1. There are many more to come, and all of them fleshed out by the detailed mythos Haarsma has created for his world and his characters.
Reading the novel feels a lot like opening up vintage Robert A. Heinlein and Andre Norton. The whiz-bang cutting-edge tech, like the sleepers and dream enhancement gear, as well as the idea of the softwire is pure Heinleinesque, only moved into the 21st century. But the worldbuilding feels more like classic Andre Norton, with touches like the immortal Space Jumpers and the way the Orbis rings and Council are established. Haarsma seems to have grown up on the best kind of science fiction and is determined to delivery it back into the hands of young adults where such fancies take flight so easily.
The length is another plus. Compared to the tree-killing deluge of so many of today’s popular young adult book, The Softwire: Virus On Orbis 1 hits a comfortable 262 pages that reads incredibly fast. The pacing of the story is quick, too, even though a new, well-thought out world is being rendered for the first time.
The novel works great as a stand-alone tale. By the time the end is reached, all the threats and most of the questions have been answered. But it leaves the reader wanting more. Hopefully Haarsma won’t make his readers wait long before he delivers a second volume in this intriguing interstellar series.
Article comments
1 - Austin
I wish that u would tell more about what happened at the end, that would be pretty cool and Im reading the book right now and im in the part about when he goes to the council and he gets death threats from aliens on orbis 1. It is a pretty good book. What do You think of this book if you dont Know what book im talking about it is The softwire Virus on Orbis 1
2 - Debbie
The Softwire is truly a great read especially for the teen reluctant reader. There are dangers around every corner with aliens, and take over attempts. PJ Haarsma does a wonderful job bring this world to life with his ability for just the right amount of detail, suspense, and adventure.
3 - Denise
I am a huge fan of The Softwire. Good SciFi for kids is rare these days. This one is fast-paced and imaginative, with a very appealing protagonist. I can't wait for the second book to come out so I can find out what's happening with the "kids." The book is also part of a literacy project called Kids Need to Read. They donate books to needy libraries.