Paraworld Zero (Parallel Worlds #1)

Reader reviewed by SamBays

A friend referred Paraworld Zero to me, and I was at first skeptical, but after I got into it, I could see the gold in this debut novel. The author of the book and narrator of the audio book, Matthew Peterson, has a future ahead of him... if he can get a larger publisher to back him up. Heck, after reading/listening to this young adult novel, I would love to see a larger company do it justice with a better cover and even a movie adaptation. The actual writing is excellent, though, and the narration of the audio book is above average. I was startled to hear multiple narrators, but I got used to it and discovered that it helped in the overall production. It ends on a great cliffhanger that makes you want to read the next one. I also like how everything came together at the end. It had some mystery, a little romance, and a lot of strange creatures. Kids will like this one.

Reader reviewed by Nancy5A

I found this book by accident and fell in love with the story and characters. My children have read it several times. I cant wait to see what happens in the next installment. The narration is smooth and the story is filled with impressive creativity, and the ending is simply divine. It might be too intense for smaller children, but if they are mature enough to read Harry Potter and Eragon, then they could also read Paraworld Zero. Don't miss this one!

Reader reviewed by Nao

I think this is the type of book you either love or dismiss, depending on your personality and age. I know the intended audience (ages 8 - 16) will love this. For me as an adult, I absolutely loved it as well. But that's because I enjoy a good story with interesting characters. This is not a serious book, though there are a couple of serious moments. The mystery in Paraworld Zero was just enough to keep me guessing. I wish there was a little more romance, but the characters are fairly young (12 through 14), so I understand why the romantic aspects were watered down. There better be more romance in the sequel! I was hoping to see Simon at the magical school, but as it turns out, that'll be in the next book. I'm looking forward to it.

Reader reviewed by Chioma

This is definately the Best Science Fiction book ever (Aside from the Uglies Series of course). It is really original and not like any other book I have read. It takes place on different planets the characters are aliens from different planets. The main character Simon Kent is your typical nerdy little boy who gets beat up. Then a mysterious girl with color changing bright green hair takes him to a distant planet where Simon discovers he is able to do magic. Now he has to put his insicurities aside to save a whole planet. But will it be at the expence of his new best friend??? I recommend this book to anyone who likes Science Fiction and Fantasy books.

Reader reviewed by Spencer

Although I am much older than most of the readers of young adult fiction I found this book to be exciting and memorable. The author articulates the mystery and majesty of a young boy's adventure and made me feel like I was right in the story with Simon. I gave this book to my grandchildren and now they are reading it. Two thumbs up to Mr. Peterson and his well-written fantasy that allowed me to forget about my "reality" for a time and sit back and enjoy a fun-filled adventure.

Reader reviewed by Tanya

I was very impressed! I read it in a couple of days. Let's just say my house was a wreck when my husband got home! I really liked it and found it an enjoyable read. My son then picked it up, LOVED it, and now is excited to do a book report on it. It's a great read for the whole family!

Reader reviewed by Michelle

When I started reading Paraworld Zero I was skeptical that it was going to be as good as some of the books I have read recently, not to name that one series of books that have seven books and have made millions and millions of dollars of revenue from their movies, toys, etc. But what I found out in less than a page, was this was better. I couldn't put the book down. I read it in one day and then started to read it again the next. I can't wait for the next series of books. I hope the author gets writing soon. M-from California

Reader reviewed by Amanda Brooke

With hidden meanings and underlying secrets, Paraworld Zero is a thrilling adventure! This book doesnt just take you to new worlds, it slams you into Simons out-of-this-world ordeal! Paraworld Zero deals in magic, action, and even love! It teaches about having self-worth, standing up to bullies, using creativity, looking at things in a different way, trusting friends, valuing others opinions, unjust slavery, and so much more!


Fly into a world unreal when you pick up this book, Paraworld Zero, it will leave you craving for more!

Reader reviewed by Alicia

I just read this new fantasy book and thoroughly enjoyed it. It has all that is good with Harry Potter mixed with the excitement of Star Wars. Although its geared for young adults and teens, I think adults would like it as well. I sure did. The book cover and chapter illustrations are fun and descriptive. One look and you know exactly what youre getting into: action, magic, and creatures. The story is deeper than just your normal action book, though, because it deals with issues of slavery, low self-esteem and true friendship. I highly recommend this book.

Reader reviewed by Matthew Peterson

"Its always a pleasure to find a new writer who is comfortable in that marvelous borderland between fantasy and science fiction. Even more of a pleasure to find one with flair and humour and a truly original imagination.

"What do you get when the effect that produces parallel worlds also creates the phenomenon that we loosely call magic power? You get a lot of really weird beings with slightly faulty technology bursting into the lives of&well&some really weird people. You also get murderous villains, mighty warriors, goddess-like women, impossible problems and some of the wildest chases since the Keystone Kops. More fun than a barrel of computer games.

"Read it. Trust me, youll have a terrific time on that borderland. Especially in the company of Matthew Peterson."

Douglas Hill (bestselling science fiction / fantasy author of nearly 70 books)


"The exciting action of Star Wars with the humor of Napoleon Dynamite. I think Paraworld Zero has strong potential to be popular among readers."

Diana Pharaoh Francis (author of the Path and Crosspointe series)


"Flame throwing pigeons and demonic dumpsters. Funny and imaginative."
Maria V. Snyder (award-winning author of Poison Study, Magic Study, and Fire Study)


"Paraworld Zero doesnt just take you to a parallel universe of strange beings and galactic battles where everything is ruled by magic; it takes you through a parallel journey of the heart. Matthew Peterson weaves a wonderful heartfelt story that any coming-of-age adolescent can relate. As Simon, Tonya, Thornapple and Har struggle with their own preconceived ideas and prejudices, they learn to trust, love and appreciate one another."
T.L. Gray (author of the Necromancer series)


"This is like Harry Potter meets Star Wars! I couldn't put the book downI had to stay home from work to finish it!"
Cory Farley (Lawyer - Phoenix, AZ)

"I was very impressed! I read it in a couple of days. Let's just say my house was a wreck when my husband got home! I really liked it and found it an enjoyable read."
Tanya Thomas (Kansas City, Kansas)

"I've read lots of books, and this one is my favorite!"
Hayden Oliver (9 year old boy)

"OK, where's the next one? Tell me you have more. I read this in 2 days!"
Wendy Knight (Accountant)

"It's a good, engaging story--effective pacing, strong characters, humorous scenes, great action sequences, and believable relationships. I'm enjoying it."
Susan M. Grossman (Editor in Seattle, WA)

"It's an exciting book. Great plot and storyline. I wanted to keep reading."
Julie Mills (Homemaker)

"It was very good and well-written. I think you have some good imagination and talent!"
Gerald Call (UCLA Professor - Los Angeles, CA)

"From the beginning of the entire story, I was thoroughly hooked and entranced."
Dionne Washington (College Student in Arcata, California)

"You have an interesting premise and some very good writing skills."
Jeff Stewart (Military - Killeen, TX)


Note: All of these blurbs have been reprinted here with the author's permission.