Velocity

In this adrenaline-spiked adventure, teens race souped-up vehicles through a postapocalyptic wasteland in order to win the ultimate prize: a life of luxury aboard a utopian orbital habitat. For best friends Cassica (a daredevil driver) and Shiara (a mechanical genius), the Widowmaker, a three-day road rally known for its high body count, represents the only way to escape their tiny dying town of Coppermouth. When they are signed by an ambitious manager, they figure it’s time to go for the gold. But as the race gets underway and the lure of fame threatens to ruin their partnership, Cassica and Shiara are beset by danger and treachery on all sides as they traverse a wasteland filled with ancient war machines, roaming cannibals, and fellow drivers out to kill them. Wooding (Poison) starts strong and never lets up on the gas, delivering a terrifying, tense thrill ride filled with cinematic moments. With the dystopian setting, fiercely resourceful heroines, fast cars, and an explosive climax, Wooding’s story is perfect for fans of Mad Max: Fury Road, but it carves out its own identity along the way. Ages 12–up. (Feb.)