Leo never wanted to leave his home...
When scientists discover a rare and mysterious mineral buried in the Earth's crust, they don't realize it's the most valuable substance in the universe. It's not long before aliens show up to our corner of the galaxy, offering us a promise of protection, fabulous new technology, and entry into their intergalactic coalition in exchange for access to this precious mineral--precious enough that other alien forces are willing to start a war over it. A war that makes its way to Earth.
Leo knows this all too well. His mother was killed in the war, and his father, a Coalition scientist, decides it would be best to leave Earth behind. But on their expedition, their ship is attacked, Leo's father is kidnapped, and Leo and his brother are stranded in space. The only chance they have is for Leo to stow onboard a ship of mercenary pirates and beg their captain for help. But the road is dangerous, and pirates only look out for themselves. Leo must decide who to trust as he tries to stay and alive and save his family, even as he comes to understand that there aren't many people--human or alien--that he can count on in this brave new universe.
Leo knows this all too well. His mother was killed in the war, and his father, a Coalition scientist, decides it would be best to leave Earth behind. But on their expedition, their ship is attacked, Leo's father is kidnapped, and Leo and his brother are stranded in space. The only chance they have is for Leo to stow onboard a ship of mercenary pirates and beg their captain for help. But the road is dangerous, and pirates only look out for themselves. Leo must decide who to trust as he tries to stay and alive and save his family, even as he comes to understand that there aren't many people--human or alien--that he can count on in this brave new universe.
"The Mandalorian meets Guardians of the Galaxy in this fast-paced space adventure that will have readers turning the pages as they are pulled into a unique yet strangely familiar world that reflects our own. This series opener is an ideal pick for middle-grade sci-fi fans." - Booklist, starred review
"This novel not only provides an otherworldly adventure, but a sincere tale about dealing with loss, finding bravery, and navigating the complexity of war. VERDICT A page-turning space adventure that deals with complex issues." - School Library Journal
"Anderson spins a fast-paced tale of piracy among the stars. Featuring a winning cast of misfits who stumble into unexpected kinship, Anderson employs warm humor and pop culture references to ground the narrative against cosmic-level stakes and underlying commentary about exploitation and the cost of war." - Publishers Weekly
"Leo’s narration aches with pathos but also provides moments of humor and finally ends on a cliffhanger. A heartfelt adventure." - Kirkus
"This novel not only provides an otherworldly adventure, but a sincere tale about dealing with loss, finding bravery, and navigating the complexity of war. VERDICT A page-turning space adventure that deals with complex issues." - School Library Journal
"Anderson spins a fast-paced tale of piracy among the stars. Featuring a winning cast of misfits who stumble into unexpected kinship, Anderson employs warm humor and pop culture references to ground the narrative against cosmic-level stakes and underlying commentary about exploitation and the cost of war." - Publishers Weekly
"Leo’s narration aches with pathos but also provides moments of humor and finally ends on a cliffhanger. A heartfelt adventure." - Kirkus
