AIRLOCK

A nonbinary teen embarks on an exciting adventure against space pirates.

Sixteen-year-old Brick is a friendless teenager trying to get by in a post-apocalyptic world. Now they must escape Earth. After Brick stole food rations, they become a wanted person; the scar across their fingers from warding off a knife attack and a handprint left behind at the scene of the crime were dead giveaways as to who the thief was. But on their way to the spaceship port, they meet local tough guy Amar, who becomes an unlikely ally. Amar knows that Brick is wanted, and he just wants to come along. He too hates it on Earth. And so together they help each other on their journey as stowaways to the moon. Brick’s crushing anxiety and fear of outer space become a little more bearable with Amar by their side. When the spaceship is invaded by pirates, Brick must choose between right and wrong and decide how far they’re willing to go for what’s right. Immersive from the get-go, this novel is a quick-paced gem. The story is action-packed, with a plot that is always moving forward but still offers plenty of room for heart-fluttering moments between the protagonists. Brick, who suffers from anxiety and panic attacks, is described as having brown skin and black hair; names cue diversity in the remaining cast.

Engrossing and thrilling—this reluctant reader title should not be missed.