Watch the Sky

Jory is in sixth grade and, after being homeschooled until fifth grade, feels like he’s finally fitting in. His sister, Kit, who never speaks, is still homeschooled. Kit wandered into their lives three years before, but Jory loves her like a real sister. Their mom, who has debilitating headaches, keeps busy with Kit and baby Ansel. Jory’s stepfather, Caleb, keeps them safe and watches for signs. Something is coming, but Caleb won’t tell them what. And sometimes Caleb gets mean and acts a little crazy. When the time comes, they must be ready. They mustn’t talk to anyone about Caleb’s plans. But Jory starts making friends, and somehow he lets some secrets spill. Suddenly, Caleb announces it’s time, and the family begins digging a bunker in the canyon. Jory begins to question Caleb’s motives, but is it too late?

Kirsten Hubbard has written an absolutely riveting middle-grade thriller. The characters are well-founded and absolutely believable and engaging. The close third-person point of view pulls readers completely into Jory’s world, and readers will feel his every hope and fear. This is an exceptional coming-of-age story that will stay with readers long after the cover is closed.