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angelo_vossen's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
"The Gravity of Us" by Phil Stamper is a richly layered young adult novel that delves into the complexities of love, family, and the pursuit of one's dreams amidst the backdrop of a NASA space mission. At its heart, the story revolves around Cal, a teenage social media journalist with a passion for broadcasting the truth, and his unexpected journey into the world of the American space program - and, to be honest, anything space-related is always a huge win for me.
When Cal's family is uprooted from Brooklyn to Houston due to his father's involvement in a high-profile NASA mission, Cal finds himself thrust into a new environment filled with uncertainty and challenges. As he navigates the intricacies of his new life in Texas, Cal grapples with his own identity, relationships, and the pressures of living in the public eye.
I love how the novel also tackles topics like depression and anxiety in an (not exaggerated) educational way and makes it understandable and relatable. In my opinion it‘s always great to include such topics as they are part of a lot of people‘s lives. Alongside that, I really appreciate how Stamper seamlessly manages to depict therapy in a positive light, even without focusing on that topic: Self-care is important! In total I would have loved to have more insight into other characters than Cal, but overall I can‘t complain.
Stamper skillfully captures the essence of adolescence, portraying Cal as a relatable protagonist struggling to find his place in the world. Cal's journey is not only a physical one but also an emotional one, as he wrestles with his feelings for fellow Astrokid, Leon, amidst the chaos of his family's relocation and the demands of his burgeoning career.
The novel excels in its exploration of themes such as fame, social media, and the impact of technology on personal relationships. Stamper presents a nuanced portrayal of the ways in which social media can both connect and isolate individuals, highlighting the importance of authenticity and human connection in an increasingly digital world.
Moreover, Stamper's depiction of the NASA space mission adds a compelling layer of depth to the narrative, offering readers a glimpse into the inner workings of the space program and the dedication of those involved in pushing the boundaries of human exploration.
Throughout the novel, Stamper's prose is both evocative and engaging, drawing readers into Cal's world with vivid descriptions and authentic dialogue. The supporting cast of characters, including Cal's family members and newfound friends in Houston, are equally well-developed and add depth to the story.
In conclusion, "The Gravity of Us" is a captivating and thought-provoking read that seamlessly blends elements of romance, coming-of-age, and science fiction. Stamper's masterful storytelling and keen insight into the human condition make this novel a must-read for readers of all ages.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Mental illness
Minor: Alcohol, Cancer, and Death
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