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When Tomorrow Burns
Not yet published
Expected 3 Mar 26Three middle school students embark on a quest to find a book that may just save their lives in this spectacular novel about fate and friendship—from the Newbery Award-winning author of
When You Trap a Tiger
.
Once there was a tree. There was a tree. There was a tree. Until the tree fell. And then there was a book.
When best friends Nomi, Vi, and Arthur were younger, they found a book that could predict the future. It was so very satisfying and comforting to know what was coming. But as the friends drifted apart, they forgot about the book. Except for Nomi. The final prediction says “How do you turn a girl into flame. You’ll never be the same.” What does it mean? It sounds dangerous—especially with wildfires raging in the distance. Nomi just knows there’s a sequel to the book; if only they could find it, everything would make sense.
As Nomi teams up once again with Vi and Arthur, they must navigate their complicated feelings about each other, their fears of the unknown, and the risks they aren’t sure how to take. In the end, will they be able to fight destiny?
Once there was a tree. There was a tree. There was a tree. Until the tree fell. And then there was a book.
When best friends Nomi, Vi, and Arthur were younger, they found a book that could predict the future. It was so very satisfying and comforting to know what was coming. But as the friends drifted apart, they forgot about the book. Except for Nomi. The final prediction says “How do you turn a girl into flame. You’ll never be the same.” What does it mean? It sounds dangerous—especially with wildfires raging in the distance. Nomi just knows there’s a sequel to the book; if only they could find it, everything would make sense.
As Nomi teams up once again with Vi and Arthur, they must navigate their complicated feelings about each other, their fears of the unknown, and the risks they aren’t sure how to take. In the end, will they be able to fight destiny?
272 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication March 3, 2026
9 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
About the author
Tae Keller
14 books524 followersTAE KELLER is the Newbery award winning and New York Times bestselling author of When You Trap a Tiger and The Science of Breakable Things. She grew up in Honolulu, Hawaii, where she subsisted on kimchi, purple rice, and stories. Now, she writes about biracial girls trying to find their voices, and lives in Seattle with her husband and a multitude of books.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
September 3, 2025
DNF @ 5%
Unable to continue this book due to LGBTQ content.
One of the main characters has two fathers.
Unable to continue this book due to LGBTQ content.
One of the main characters has two fathers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
E ARC provided by Netgalley
Nomi, Violet, and Arthur used to be close friends, but as middle school wears on, they spend less time together. Arthur broke away first, spending more time with the boys on the cross country team, in part because he has a crush on Nomi and doesn't think she likes him that way. Nomi does, but she is obsessed with an old book the three kids found in Arthur's fathers' gallery. She thinks that the poems are prophetic, based on how things in her life were able to be interpreted. Violet is more interested in boys than Nomi, which Nomi finds irritating even though she has a crush on Arthur. There are wildfires in the area surrounding their Seattle home, so when Violet shows up wearing an uncharacteristic all pink outfit, Nomi thinks that the combination of pink and gray is signifying the end of her world. Violet is angry about her mother's blog, and when Lucas asks her to send him a compromising selfie, she does. She thinks he won't share it with anyone. Nomi goes full speed ahead to try to solve the mystery of the book, even contacting a scientist after she says something very similar to one of the prophecies. We also hear a back story of the book from the perspective of the trees. When Lucas shows other boys the picture of Violet in her bra, Nomi goes on the war path and attacks Lucas. This puts her scholarship in jeopardy, and since her single mother is struggling financially, she would have to leave the private school. Violet wants to quit and go to public school with Nomi, and the girls cause a fire when burning some of the unflattering sketches Lucas has spread around school. Luckily, Arthur saves the day by providing proof to the principal.
This reminded me of Rebecca Stead's 2015 Goodbye, Stranger. I appreciated the author's note that we shouldn't try to hide the horrible things going on in the world from tweens, but I'm not sure that the compromising selfie plot ARC will resonate with my students. Our school dress code is literally "all private parts must be covered", and there have been girls coming to school in low rise jeans and tube tops, which are much more revealing than bras. The cover makes this look like it might be about climate change, and there are glimmers of that, but it's more about social media use and friend difficulties. Hand this to students who will appreciate the interstitial Greek chorus sections from the point of view of the trees.
Nomi, Violet, and Arthur used to be close friends, but as middle school wears on, they spend less time together. Arthur broke away first, spending more time with the boys on the cross country team, in part because he has a crush on Nomi and doesn't think she likes him that way. Nomi does, but she is obsessed with an old book the three kids found in Arthur's fathers' gallery. She thinks that the poems are prophetic, based on how things in her life were able to be interpreted. Violet is more interested in boys than Nomi, which Nomi finds irritating even though she has a crush on Arthur. There are wildfires in the area surrounding their Seattle home, so when Violet shows up wearing an uncharacteristic all pink outfit, Nomi thinks that the combination of pink and gray is signifying the end of her world. Violet is angry about her mother's blog, and when Lucas asks her to send him a compromising selfie, she does. She thinks he won't share it with anyone. Nomi goes full speed ahead to try to solve the mystery of the book, even contacting a scientist after she says something very similar to one of the prophecies. We also hear a back story of the book from the perspective of the trees. When Lucas shows other boys the picture of Violet in her bra, Nomi goes on the war path and attacks Lucas. This puts her scholarship in jeopardy, and since her single mother is struggling financially, she would have to leave the private school. Violet wants to quit and go to public school with Nomi, and the girls cause a fire when burning some of the unflattering sketches Lucas has spread around school. Luckily, Arthur saves the day by providing proof to the principal.
This reminded me of Rebecca Stead's 2015 Goodbye, Stranger. I appreciated the author's note that we shouldn't try to hide the horrible things going on in the world from tweens, but I'm not sure that the compromising selfie plot ARC will resonate with my students. Our school dress code is literally "all private parts must be covered", and there have been girls coming to school in low rise jeans and tube tops, which are much more revealing than bras. The cover makes this look like it might be about climate change, and there are glimmers of that, but it's more about social media use and friend difficulties. Hand this to students who will appreciate the interstitial Greek chorus sections from the point of view of the trees.
December 6, 2025
Tae Keller (Newbery winning When You Trap a Tiger, The Science of Unbreakable Things and more) gives middle grade readers another thoughtful look at the myriad of social and personal complexities faced by so many in that grades 5-8 age group. Nomi, Vi and Arthur are a trio of friends who find a book that seemingly predicts the future which provides them with, at times, both comfort and anxiety, and binds their friendship together. But time moves on, the book is shelved and friendships change. When fire threatens their Seattle home, the book’s importance surges and the threesome must come together once again. Told in alternating perspectives, including those of the trees that have been around longer than any of us have been, allows readers to see into the thoughts and minds of characters who may be experiencing similar things or allow them to view the world through the lens of someone/something very different. Slow at the start, the pace picks up as the fire and the friendships grow and change and all those who finish this one may find that they are still thinking about When Tomorrow Burns long after they turn the last page.
Target age group: grades 5-8
Representation: wide range of economic levels and family configurations, including Arthur and his two dads and the way society views these groups is included as one of the realities kids face today.
Free of profanity and physical violence is limited to that of nature.
Target age group: grades 5-8
Representation: wide range of economic levels and family configurations, including Arthur and his two dads and the way society views these groups is included as one of the realities kids face today.
Free of profanity and physical violence is limited to that of nature.
November 10, 2025
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
Wow. This book was just…wow. So many themes woven together. There were times I wasn’t sure it was working, but by the end I was blown away. Told through a middle grade perspective, Tae Keller reflects on the ways that fire destroys and rebuilds - trees, houses, communities, but perhaps most importantly, ourselves. How do you survive after the world burns? Sometimes the only thing left to do is regrow.
This one will be given a spot on the permanent bookshelf!
Wow. This book was just…wow. So many themes woven together. There were times I wasn’t sure it was working, but by the end I was blown away. Told through a middle grade perspective, Tae Keller reflects on the ways that fire destroys and rebuilds - trees, houses, communities, but perhaps most importantly, ourselves. How do you survive after the world burns? Sometimes the only thing left to do is regrow.
This one will be given a spot on the permanent bookshelf!
August 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Books for Children for access to a digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This was an incredibly powerful story!! The world is a scary place right now, and not only do the kids know it, they experience it in ways that adults don’t completely understand, which more often than not, leaves them feeling lonely, worried, and hopeless. The problems that Keller tackles range from global disasters down to interpersonal relationships, and many others in between.
Nomi, Vi, and Arthur discovered an anonymous journal when they were younger, and its prophetic poetry has correctly predicted too many events for them to ignore its “magic” -from small things like predicting a new flavor of ice cream, to larger, friendship ending forecasts. But when an apocalyptic prophecy seems to be coming true, Nomi must gather her friends back together to figure out how to stop it.
I highly recommend this book, especially for kids who are struggling with dealing with the pressures of the world, their families, and the daily lives of middle schoolers.
This was an incredibly powerful story!! The world is a scary place right now, and not only do the kids know it, they experience it in ways that adults don’t completely understand, which more often than not, leaves them feeling lonely, worried, and hopeless. The problems that Keller tackles range from global disasters down to interpersonal relationships, and many others in between.
Nomi, Vi, and Arthur discovered an anonymous journal when they were younger, and its prophetic poetry has correctly predicted too many events for them to ignore its “magic” -from small things like predicting a new flavor of ice cream, to larger, friendship ending forecasts. But when an apocalyptic prophecy seems to be coming true, Nomi must gather her friends back together to figure out how to stop it.
I highly recommend this book, especially for kids who are struggling with dealing with the pressures of the world, their families, and the daily lives of middle schoolers.
December 23, 2025
Three middle schoolers search for an old book which may be able to predict the future. Along the way they renew friendships, experience crushes, and learn some hard lessons. This book was much heavier than I had expected and took some digesting afterwards to connect it all together. Multiple POVs, including trees, engage the reader and shed light on internal motivations. Overall a worthwhile read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The blurb reads:
Three middle school students embark on a quest to find a book that may just save their lives in this spectacular novel about fate and friendship—from the Newbery Award-winning author of When You Trap a Tiger .
Once there was a tree. There was a tree. There was a tree. Until the tree fell. And then there was a book.
When best friends Nomi, Vi, and Arthur were younger, they found a book that could predict the future. It was so very satisfying and comforting to know what was coming. But as the friends drifted apart, they forgot about the book. Except for Nomi. The final prediction says “How do you turn a girl into flame. You’ll never be the same.” What does it mean? It sounds dangerous—especially with wildfires raging in the distance. Nomi just knows there’s a sequel to the book; if only they could find it, everything would make sense.
As Nomi teams up once again with Vi and Arthur, they must navigate their complicated feelings about each other, their fears of the unknown, and the risks they aren’t sure how to take. In the end, will they be able to fight destiny?
I personally was not a huge fan of this book, which was a bit disappointing, seeing as Tae Keller is one of my favorite authors, and I've adored all her previous books. There were enjoyable elements (I loved the idea of the book of prophecies and the author's writing style is very descriptive and really shows you into the hearts of characters.)
However, this book just really wasn't for me. Partly because it's more of a gritty contemporary (a genre I don't typically read) and partly just because I just really didn't find it an enjoyable middle-grade read. I didn't relate that much to any of the main characters, especially as a homeschooler and writer. And I personally felt like it was just a bit too... heavy for middle-grade, if that makes any sense. A big reason I read middle-grade is because middle-grade often handles and talks about real-world issues with tactfulness and hope, which I really didn't feel like this book did very well, and instead just kept name dropping issues in a way that felt forced and shoved in my face. There was also a plotline in this book that I really did not find appropriate for middle-graders where one of the MCs sends a photo of herself in a bra to one of the boys at school. I personally did not find that plotline well-written or written with tact either.
Overall, this was not the most enjoyable read for me. I wouldn't recommend it to my blog readers, and I don't think any of the middle-grade readers I know in real life would be interested in this book. 1.5 out of five stars from me.
Three middle school students embark on a quest to find a book that may just save their lives in this spectacular novel about fate and friendship—from the Newbery Award-winning author of When You Trap a Tiger .
Once there was a tree. There was a tree. There was a tree. Until the tree fell. And then there was a book.
When best friends Nomi, Vi, and Arthur were younger, they found a book that could predict the future. It was so very satisfying and comforting to know what was coming. But as the friends drifted apart, they forgot about the book. Except for Nomi. The final prediction says “How do you turn a girl into flame. You’ll never be the same.” What does it mean? It sounds dangerous—especially with wildfires raging in the distance. Nomi just knows there’s a sequel to the book; if only they could find it, everything would make sense.
As Nomi teams up once again with Vi and Arthur, they must navigate their complicated feelings about each other, their fears of the unknown, and the risks they aren’t sure how to take. In the end, will they be able to fight destiny?
I personally was not a huge fan of this book, which was a bit disappointing, seeing as Tae Keller is one of my favorite authors, and I've adored all her previous books. There were enjoyable elements (I loved the idea of the book of prophecies and the author's writing style is very descriptive and really shows you into the hearts of characters.)
However, this book just really wasn't for me. Partly because it's more of a gritty contemporary (a genre I don't typically read) and partly just because I just really didn't find it an enjoyable middle-grade read. I didn't relate that much to any of the main characters, especially as a homeschooler and writer. And I personally felt like it was just a bit too... heavy for middle-grade, if that makes any sense. A big reason I read middle-grade is because middle-grade often handles and talks about real-world issues with tactfulness and hope, which I really didn't feel like this book did very well, and instead just kept name dropping issues in a way that felt forced and shoved in my face. There was also a plotline in this book that I really did not find appropriate for middle-graders where one of the MCs sends a photo of herself in a bra to one of the boys at school. I personally did not find that plotline well-written or written with tact either.
Overall, this was not the most enjoyable read for me. I wouldn't recommend it to my blog readers, and I don't think any of the middle-grade readers I know in real life would be interested in this book. 1.5 out of five stars from me.
November 24, 2025
Seventh graders Vi, Nomi, and Arthur used to be best friends, but time and circumstances have distanced them from one another. As younger children, the three discovered a book of prophecies that seemed to be accurately predicting the future, and it is the final prophecy that brings the three back together in unexpected ways. As the world burns around them—both literally and figuratively—the three hope desperately to know what happens next. But only time and their own choices can determine how the future will unfold. This thoughtful middle grade novel is told from several perspectives, including that of the trees that have seen more of time than an individual human ever could. Brief chapters offer glimpses into each character’s motivations and behavior, helping readers better understand the changes the characters undergo and the motivation behind those transformations. Though the pacing of the story is slower than many middle grade novels tend to be, this deliberate choice allows deeper contemplation of the very real challenges the characters face and the consequences of their actions. In a world that often feels outside of one’s control, this story reminds readers of the agency each person has in their individual decisions, regardless of what any prophecy might say. A metaphor for the rings of life that take all things through a journey of destruction and regrowth, the story is uplifting in its ultimate resolution despite the difficulties encountered throughout the narrative. This is a good addition to library collections for middle grade readers who appreciate contemplative literature.
September 2, 2025
Wow - I’m so impressed by this novel! As soon as I finished it, I wanted to pick it right back up and reread.
Originally, I had a hard time getting into this book… at 37% I started finding the themes and the “why” a the book. I could start to see an outline. We see what preteens and young teens having been going through for decades which includes navigating friendships as they age. In addition, body changes and the beginning of their dating journey. As well as, what teens have to go through in today’s world with technology.
In addition, family dynamics in today’s society are quite varied compared to 30 years ago in the US. Single moms, mixed families, same sex parents, and more. The book discusses how society treats those different families dynamics. Along with a guilt that is recognized amongst the parents generation for the future they have set up for their children.
The most obvious theme is probably the climate impact. We see the fires impact on society. The conversation about the trees is a great way to see the planets “pov” or a voice of criticism towards human’s behavior. But also, the symbolism behind fires and trees echoed throughout the book was poetic.
This is one of those books you could really dive into to discuss literature, social constructs, and more.
A thank you to Netgalley, Tae Keller, and Random House Books for sparing me to read and review this book.
Originally, I had a hard time getting into this book… at 37% I started finding the themes and the “why” a the book. I could start to see an outline. We see what preteens and young teens having been going through for decades which includes navigating friendships as they age. In addition, body changes and the beginning of their dating journey. As well as, what teens have to go through in today’s world with technology.
In addition, family dynamics in today’s society are quite varied compared to 30 years ago in the US. Single moms, mixed families, same sex parents, and more. The book discusses how society treats those different families dynamics. Along with a guilt that is recognized amongst the parents generation for the future they have set up for their children.
The most obvious theme is probably the climate impact. We see the fires impact on society. The conversation about the trees is a great way to see the planets “pov” or a voice of criticism towards human’s behavior. But also, the symbolism behind fires and trees echoed throughout the book was poetic.
This is one of those books you could really dive into to discuss literature, social constructs, and more.
A thank you to Netgalley, Tae Keller, and Random House Books for sparing me to read and review this book.
September 22, 2025
Friends Nomi, Vi and Arthur have been reading a book donated to a museum of lost and found art, using the scraps of information as if they are prophecies. When they have finished the book and the prophecies have all come true, they become determined to find volume 2. As their lives spin a little out of control, the kids take each crisis one at a time and get through them. I think all of us sometimes feel like we'd like to have the future mapped out for us, to know how things will turn out ahead of time, to have the comfort you don't get by facing the challenges of life head-on. But these kids learn that if they try, and if they do their best, sometimes bad things will still happen, but they can get through them. There are passages that are from the perspective of the trees, and while I found them beautiful, I wonder if kids will entirely understand. I hope they do. Review from e-galley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🔥 When Tomorrow Burns
By Tae Keller
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
When Tomorrow Burns is a thoughtful, emotionally layered story that blends grief, hope, and self-discovery in a way that feels both intimate and universal. Tae Keller’s writing remains gentle yet powerful—she captures complicated emotions with clarity and warmth. I loved the quiet strength of the characters and the way the story explores how we hold onto pain, memories, and the versions of ourselves we thought we had to be.
While the pacing is a little slow in parts, the emotional payoff is worth it. It’s reflective, tender, and lingers with you after the last page. Fans of heartfelt, character-driven storytelling will definitely appreciate this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
✨️ Archives of Armina ✨️
By Tae Keller
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
When Tomorrow Burns is a thoughtful, emotionally layered story that blends grief, hope, and self-discovery in a way that feels both intimate and universal. Tae Keller’s writing remains gentle yet powerful—she captures complicated emotions with clarity and warmth. I loved the quiet strength of the characters and the way the story explores how we hold onto pain, memories, and the versions of ourselves we thought we had to be.
While the pacing is a little slow in parts, the emotional payoff is worth it. It’s reflective, tender, and lingers with you after the last page. Fans of heartfelt, character-driven storytelling will definitely appreciate this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
✨️ Archives of Armina ✨️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🔥 When Tomorrow Burns
By Tae Keller
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
When Tomorrow Burns is a thoughtful, emotionally layered story that blends grief, hope, and self-discovery in a way that feels both intimate and universal. Tae Keller’s writing remains gentle yet powerful—she captures complicated emotions with clarity and warmth. I loved the quiet strength of the characters and the way the story explores how we hold onto pain, memories, and the versions of ourselves we thought we had to be.
While the pacing is a little slow in parts, the emotional payoff is worth it. It’s reflective, tender, and lingers with you after the last page. Fans of heartfelt, character-driven storytelling will definitely appreciate this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
✨️ Archives of Armina ✨️
By Tae Keller
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
When Tomorrow Burns is a thoughtful, emotionally layered story that blends grief, hope, and self-discovery in a way that feels both intimate and universal. Tae Keller’s writing remains gentle yet powerful—she captures complicated emotions with clarity and warmth. I loved the quiet strength of the characters and the way the story explores how we hold onto pain, memories, and the versions of ourselves we thought we had to be.
While the pacing is a little slow in parts, the emotional payoff is worth it. It’s reflective, tender, and lingers with you after the last page. Fans of heartfelt, character-driven storytelling will definitely appreciate this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
✨️ Archives of Armina ✨️
October 5, 2025
When Tomorrow Burns is hopeful and deeply real. The story is as beautiful as its cover art. Told through the alternating perspectives of three students, and a wise old tree, this book weaves through the history of a mysterious book and the quiet power of the wisdom it holds. The prophecies within guide the students through the trials and treacheries of middle school, gently reminding us that things will work out, even when life doesn’t go according to plan. So much is layered into this story that I know a second read would reveal even more beauty. It was the story I needed to hear today. Magical.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Books for Children for access to the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Books for Children for access to the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 19, 2025
This book follows three friends through about a quarter-ish of their middle school year, and it instantly brought me back to my middle school days. I think a lot of kids will relate to everything Vi, Arthur, and Nomi experience. The character growth is so strong, and I loved the touch of whimsy woven throughout.
Even though it tackles some tough topics, I think it’s a great springboard for discussion between parents and middle schoolers. Personally, I really enjoyed it even though I’m far removed from that stage of life and don’t have a middle schooler myself.
Honestly, my timing for reading this couldn’t have been more surreal. When I started the book, the wildfire smoke from Canada was hanging heavy in the Midwest, and shortly after, we experienced massive flooding. It felt like one climate crisis after another, and this story reminded me that even in hard times, things can and will be okay. It inspired me to be the change and stand up for what I believe in.
I also loved that there was a quest, a prophecy, and elements of magical realism. All in all, this book had both heart and hope, and it left me with the powerful reminder: "We were here. And we’ll be here."
Thank you NetGalley, Tae Keller, and the publisher Random House Children's Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Even though it tackles some tough topics, I think it’s a great springboard for discussion between parents and middle schoolers. Personally, I really enjoyed it even though I’m far removed from that stage of life and don’t have a middle schooler myself.
Honestly, my timing for reading this couldn’t have been more surreal. When I started the book, the wildfire smoke from Canada was hanging heavy in the Midwest, and shortly after, we experienced massive flooding. It felt like one climate crisis after another, and this story reminded me that even in hard times, things can and will be okay. It inspired me to be the change and stand up for what I believe in.
I also loved that there was a quest, a prophecy, and elements of magical realism. All in all, this book had both heart and hope, and it left me with the powerful reminder: "We were here. And we’ll be here."
Thank you NetGalley, Tae Keller, and the publisher Random House Children's Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2025
Thank you Children's Random House and NetGalley for the eARC.
When Tomorrow Burns was an... interesting read. The story follows three friends - Vi, Nomi, and Arthur - as they navigate life in middle school after finding a book that they beloved told them the future. I found the this story easy to read and follow, but hard to get into. I enjoyed the varying perspectives, including those of the trees. The book has some topics that can be a great bridge of conversation starters for parents and older children. It touches some subjects that can lead to deep thoughts. While I didn't particularly enjoy this title, I think it is a good read and would recommend it to the proper age group.
When Tomorrow Burns was an... interesting read. The story follows three friends - Vi, Nomi, and Arthur - as they navigate life in middle school after finding a book that they beloved told them the future. I found the this story easy to read and follow, but hard to get into. I enjoyed the varying perspectives, including those of the trees. The book has some topics that can be a great bridge of conversation starters for parents and older children. It touches some subjects that can lead to deep thoughts. While I didn't particularly enjoy this title, I think it is a good read and would recommend it to the proper age group.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Keller brilliantly weaves history with current events with middle school behaviors, making this a high interest book for grades 6-8. While the topics are more mature, the writing level feels to be upper elementary, which will appeal to many middle schoolers looking for an easy read. Those readers will be surprised when they need to put their middle school thinking skills to use to fully comprehend the text. That extra layer is what makes this a great classroom or small group read. Pre-read to ensure content won't trigger your students.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As much as I wanted to love When Tomorrow Burns, I had a hard time with the sentient tree/book. It was weird and its chapters interrupted the flow of the story too often. Otherwise, this is a well-written, middle grade appropriate book about friendship and hope. The characters are believable and their reactions to their struggles can be applicable to the readers in the intended audience.
I received a free advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.
I received a free advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
There is smoke in Seattle. Again. More fires are burning. It impacts a group of children differently depending on whether they have access to air conditioning, air purifiers, and more.
Vi, Arthur, and Nomi used to be best friends. Then Arthur basically stopped talking to Nomi and Vi, and now there are cracks in the friendship between Nomi and Vi, especially after Vi develops a crush on a boy and starts texting with him. Yet the three are drawn closer together when the final prophecy in a book they found from when they were young appears to be coming true.
Tae Keller has once again written an engaging novel exploring friendship, loyalty, and honor in the midst of upheaval. These three children face challenges and make choices, some of which are healthier choices than others. The book also addresses a topic often left unaddressed in middle grades novels despite its prevalence in real life: sexual harassment.
I highly recommend this book. Like all of Tae Keller's books, it's well-written and engaging. I've recommended it to a few book award committees.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC!
Vi, Arthur, and Nomi used to be best friends. Then Arthur basically stopped talking to Nomi and Vi, and now there are cracks in the friendship between Nomi and Vi, especially after Vi develops a crush on a boy and starts texting with him. Yet the three are drawn closer together when the final prophecy in a book they found from when they were young appears to be coming true.
Tae Keller has once again written an engaging novel exploring friendship, loyalty, and honor in the midst of upheaval. These three children face challenges and make choices, some of which are healthier choices than others. The book also addresses a topic often left unaddressed in middle grades novels despite its prevalence in real life: sexual harassment.
I highly recommend this book. Like all of Tae Keller's books, it's well-written and engaging. I've recommended it to a few book award committees.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC!
February 16, 2026
Three middle-school friends have drifted apart to varying degrees, but they are bound by a mysterious, prophetic book. Tae Keller captures many of the challenges of growing up in a world that seems to be on fire, reminding readers that we are meant to live in community, to support one another as we struggle. 4.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Keller writes beautifully and I love her characters; however, I felt there was too much going on in this story with the mysterious book and the chapters told by trees to keep me engaged. I don't think I would find many students in my library for this one.
February 17, 2026
I received an ARC of book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
SUCH a wonderful, important piece of MG literature! A very strong Newbery contender - Tae Keller could take it again! My favorite book of hers so far.
SUCH a wonderful, important piece of MG literature! A very strong Newbery contender - Tae Keller could take it again! My favorite book of hers so far.
Want to read
July 21, 2025"Three middle school students embark on a quest to find a book that may just save their lives in this spectacular novel about fate and friendship"
August 1, 2025
I fully cried at the end - what a beautiful story.
November 12, 2025
Beautiful story! Middle grade story of overcoming hardships that feel like your world is ending. Friends really are the glue.
*thank you net galley for this ARC*
*thank you net galley for this ARC*
December 26, 2025
Great writing. Great story line. Love the connections to nature. Sub-plot works well, although it got a little drawn out. Thank you Net Galley for the ARC. Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy
Complete RTC.
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