Galaxy Jones and the Space Pirates

All her life, tween Galaxy Jones has helped her fathers run their inn, located in the outer solar system. Business has dropped off, however, since most people relocated further inward toward the central system. The arrival of the solar system’s royal family is much-needed, if troublesome, as the royals have a reputation for being difficult to please, especially their tween son—and Lexi’s archnemesis—Prince Weston. But when space pirates appear in pursuit of an item that Weston stole from them, and subsequently lost, it’s up to Lexi to help Weston retrieve the treasure to save their families and her home. As they rocket through space, facing off against perilous intergalactic hazards, the unlikely pair confront their past conflict and uncover unexpected similarities. McDonald (The Secrets of Stone Creek) crafts an interstellar landscape that adheres more to flights of fancy than physics or logic, and juxtaposes the ever-shifting environment with Lexi’s fear of change, Weston’s desire to prove himself, and the pair’s struggle to live up to others’ expectations. The result is a wildly original escapade featuring sympathetic protagonists and lively action sequences. Main characters read as white. Ages 8–12. Agent: Jennie Kendrick, Red Fox Literary. (Oct)