Fear of Missing Out

In this novel by McGovern (Rules for 50/50 Chances), protagonist Astrid has a terminal form of cancer (astrocytoma, a heartbreaking, thematic link to her name), which reaches through the brain in “star-shaped cells.” Her cancer is back after a lengthy period of remission, during which science lover Astrid began to study the brain with her doctor. Astrid’s diagnosis raises the stakes in all of her relationships—with her mother, who is desperate to get Astrid into a clinical trial; with her best friend, Chloe, who is there for Astrid through her illness; and with her soulful boyfriend, Mohit, whose fierce love for Astrid and spiritual faith give him courage to understand their predicament. When Astrid’s sudden interest in the scientifically questionable cryopreservation startles everyone around her, she bravely explores this possible path, enlisting friends and loved ones to help. “What is a person?” she asks Mohit when he worries about whether a future-Astrid, courtesy of cryonics, would still be the real Astrid. Questions about life and death, God and faith pervade this novel. Mohid and Astrid are in a constant state of wonder over life’s infinite mysteries, giving this title emotional, spiritual, and intellectual heft. Astrid’s unusual pursuit of possible life beyond cancer and death will draw readers into this thought-provoking story. Ages 12–up. [em]Agent: Jessica Regel, Foundry Media. (Mar.) [/em]