The Singular Life of Aria Patel

Physics-obsessed Chicago teenager Aria Patel has recently been experiencing unexplainable, painful headaches. When her widowed mother suddenly falls ill, Aria—managing another headache—rushes home. En route, Aria passes out after witnessing her mother’s car collide with a truck and, upon waking, encounters her mother, who isn’t acting like her usual self. Soon, Aria realizes that she’s been transported to a different universe; she cycles through several more alternate realities before seemingly settling into one where her father is alive, and she has significantly better chemistry with her ex-boyfriend Rohan. But even as Aria acclimates to her new existence—and her positive yet complicated feelings about her father and Rohan—she worries for her mother back in her original world. By centering a no-nonsense protagonist who relies on data rather than emotions to navigate everyday problems, Ahmed (This Book Won’t Burn) tees up a fascinating exploration of logic vs. instinct. Aria’s pragmatic approach to her predicament allows for a smooth introduction of the novel’s scientific concepts, while her gradual immersion into each reality’s interpersonal conflicts and relationships add depth. Aria’s family is Muslim and reads as Indian American. Ages 12–up. Agent: Joanna Volpe, New Leaf Literary. (May)