"Although this book is described as a YA dystopian novel, it offers a hopeful ending and would appeal to both older teens and adults.

The revealed story about the demise of the world is disturbingly plausible. Set in the near future with identifiable characters and settings such as the Crips and Blood gangs, Skinheads, and the Santa Anna winds and California Foothills, the author’s fine craft of realistic dialogue, sensory descriptions, and interiority draws the reader into a believable story.

The poetry and metaphors remind me of Niall Williams. There is excellent character development, even beyond the protagonist. The arc of Mikey is compelling, from abandoned child to young boy who idolizes the book’s namesake to disillusioned young adult to the final chapters where he comes to terms with his actions in a magical realism dream sequence. Sellack’s presence is like a lightening storm that never lets up.

The exact nature of the world that mostly young survivors occupy is not revealed to them or us until an old woman is kidnapped into their camp. The structure of the story unfurls with a now-and-then timeline, which I found distracting but forgivable as it all came together.

The tension grows throughout the story, and it was difficult to stop reading. Shera is a master writer, revealing the brilliance of a gemstone by finely crafting the facets of the story. I would not be surprised to see her name on the New York Times bestseller list soon. I highly recommend reading this book."

-Sharon Sheltzer