That charge comes from Sol, a being communicating from the desolate future and kicks off the adventure of Kaye’s life. Her journey to change the future will take her into avenues she never dreamed of with new friends, enemies, advocates and opponents, a number of whom she finds she never really knew. Sol informs Kaye that the Earth will be in tatters without her intervention, and Williams cleverly makes it clear that the mission starts at home: Kaye’s father has always assured her that climate change isn't real, but that’s before she discovers the luxury bunker hidden on their estate to keep them all safe when the devastation comes. Other secrets will jolt her, too, including possible murder.

For sensitive readers, there are a number of subjects touched upon here which might be triggering, including the death of a parent, suicide, addiction and the global effects of climate change. Most are delivered with a lighter touch, nothing too heavy handed. Kaye is a believably flawed and relatable character, struggling with sadness and not feeling like she belongs, with the pull between being angry with her father but desiring his love and approval, and with her urge toward independence while still relying on—and feeling embarrassed by—his wealth. Readers will cheer her on and care for the friends she makes on the way as the book offers an inviting introduction to climate awareness and the power of activism, all touched with both realism and magic.

Takeaway: Surprising YA adventure pitting a teen and the future against climate change.

Comparable Titles: Lauren James’s Green Rising, Rachel Griffin’s The Nature of Witches.

Production grades
Cover: B
Design and typography: B+
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A-