Massif

Garth Nix is a well known Australian author of fantasy novels both for adults and young adult readers. His latest novel, Massif, takes the reader into space where communities have established bases on Massifs - pieces of mountainous land that have been propelled into space where they are controlled by an avatar. The avatar provided visitors with craft called Basics which could be used for space expeditions. Much of the equipment that came from outside the world of Massifs would not work in a Massif environment. Those who arrived from earth had therefore to rely on Massif technology when in a region controlled by Massifs. The number of Massifs grew and were often used as bases for battles in space.

One spacecraft operating from the DrummerBoy Massif was Sassafras which was operated by Parnell, Kaz, Ricka, Shille, Aditi and Murad. On one mission Sassafras and other craft from the squadron were attacked. Kaz had left the main ship in a rider, a smaller craft, in order to assist in the battle. Then she disappeared. The Sassafras managed to return to base but was confirmed to be out of action. The crew wanted to rescue Kaz but first they needed a new craft for the mission. To complicate matters the DrummerBoy Massif was being evacuated. Parnell and his team were on their own with their actions monitored by the whim of the avatar, DrummerBoy.

The novel, Massif by Garth Nix, involves the reader with the challenges faced by Parnell and his team as they attempt to rescue their team member and also learn to understand more about the avatar which is attempting to control their lives. 

Massif - Readings

Massif - New Zealand Book Lovers