Everyone has a fear of missing out on somethingβa party, a basketball game, a hangout after school. But what if itβs life that youβll be missing out on?
When Astrid learns that her cancer has returned, she hears about a radical technology called cryopreservation that may allow her to have her body frozen until a future time whenβand ifβa cure is available. With her boyfriend, Mohit, and her best friend, Chloe, Astrid goes on a road trip in search of that possibility. To see if itβs real. To see if itβs worth it. For fear of missing out on everything.
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Review
**A Junior Library Guild Selection **
A YABC Buzzworthy Book of Winter 2019
"[A] compelling story . . . this provocative twist on a story of life-threatening disease is just one aspect of a powerful account about a teenager's fight to live . . . a unique, fascinating look at treatment choices and the right to die wrapped up in a searing tale of characters brimming with life." β Booklist , starred review
"A deeply felt, nuanced story of coping with terminal illness, McGovern's (Rules for 50/50 Chances , 2015) novel features a protagonist whose voice strikes just the right balance between poignancy and wit. The well-paced plot prioritizes Astrid's grief while simultaneously providing windows into the struggles of the people she loves, including a diverse cast of characters. A heartbreaking story of loss and grief peopled with nuanced, endearing characters that ultimately leaves the reader with a feeling of triumph." β*Kirkus Reviews, *starred review
"McGovernβs impeccable writing carries readers through an incredible journey of self-exploration . . . A compelling and heartrending read that should not be missed. Highly recommended for all YA libraries." β School Library Journal , starred review
"Mohit and Astrid are in a constant state of wonder over lifeβs infinite mysteries, giving this title emotional, spiritual, and intellectual heft. Astridβs unusual pursuit of possible life beyond cancer and death will draw readers into this thought-provoking story." β Publishers Weekly
"Thought provoking and ripe for discussion . . . keep a box of tissues handy." β*Horn Book *
"A moving story of a girl trying to figure out what legacy she can leave for the world in the face of a devastating reality . . . [this book] grants respect and understanding to those who love Astrid and who are suffering in their own ways. Readers should definitely bring the hankies, but theyβll have plenty to discuss as well." β Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
About the Author
Kate McGovern is the author of Rules for 50/50 Chances , which was called a βstandout contemporary readβ by Booklist. She lives with her family in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in a house full of books.