Airlock

Gr 7 Up--Society has mostly collapsed, leaving a scarred world infested with "Boots" who roam about enforcing the interests of the rich. Food and water is scarce. With Mom dead, teen Brick is alone and has little use for other people. Brick is nonbinary and feels comfortable doing an "impression" of either a boy or girl. Throughout this story, they present as a boy, though this is not instrumental to the plot. On the run from soldiers out to arrest them for stealing supplies, Brick contrives to stow away on a spaceship bound for the moon, but not before encountering Amar, a local enforcer presented as a sort of gentle giant, not bright but ruthlessly strong and ultimately goodhearted, who wants to go, too. The two manage to remain hidden until after takeoff but become caught up in an attack by pirates. Battling panic attacks from their fear of space, Brick, along with Amar and an impish artificial intelligence, helps save the crew and subdue the pirates. Occasionally Amar's unrefined speech--"You is good, Brick"--can seem awkward. Worldbuilding is light on detail, but adequate to the story. First-person narrator Brick is well fleshed out and the action is consistently brisk. The author identifies as trans and queer, which will resonate with teens. The book is written at a third grade reading level. VERDICT With a relatable and compelling sci-fi/dystopian narrative, this should be an easy pitch for middle or high school reluctant readers.--Bob Hassett

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. (Science fiction. 12-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.