About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle schooler feels like an outsider or is struggling to find their place in a high pressure environment. It is particularly resonant for children who feel average in a world that demands constant excellence, or for those navigating the complicated realization that the adults in their lives are fallible. Through the lens of a high stakes science fiction world, the story explores the loneliness of being the one person who does not quite fit the mold. Martin is a regular kid in a society of engineered geniuses. As he protects his younger sister and navigates a world of corporate surveillance and secret government agendas, he must grapple with feelings of inadequacy and the sting of betrayal. The book addresses themes of identity, the definition of humanity, and the courage it takes to stand up for what is right when you feel like the least important person in the room. It is a thought provoking choice for ages 10 to 14, offering a safe space to discuss ethics, family loyalty, and self worth.
