Mike Stellar: Nerves of Steel

Even though he lives in the year 2174, Mike Stellar is a fairly normal preteen: good-humored, slightly disgruntled when it comes to schoolwork and a bit of a troublemaker along with his hyper best friend Stinky (“the human embodiment of the word 'staccato’ ”). When his scientist parents announce that the family is moving to Mars without providing a reason, Mike’s detective work begins. He puts on a brave face (“I wanted to meet my fate like a man. Even if just a hyperventilating man in a shiny jumpsuit”), but is shaken by the changes and the sudden appearance of his parents’ assistant, creepy Mr. Shugabert, who watches his every step. As their spaceship Sojourner approaches “the Fold” in which the last shuttle was presumed destroyed (and Stinky’s brother lost), Mike and his odd new friend Larc gather clues and analyze who they can trust. Holt’s children’s book debut whizzes by at warp speed—the suspenseful plot and the precocious yet complex hero combine for a fun ride with a satisfying resolution. Ages 9–12. (June)