Scan barcode
nightshaderoots's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
This was my very first audiobook and I'm glad that it was. All of the characters were endearing and charming. They showcased how relationships are impacted by mental health and showed that just because you have these issues it doesn't mean that you are broken. All of the supporting characters felt lived in and had their own goals and dreams. That being said I felt that the main character didn't really grow as much as I would have preferred but then again he's just a kid and still trying to navigate his own life. There were sweet moments of intimacy and parts of the story that was hard to read. Some people just can't be fixed nor do they need to be.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Alcohol, and Mental illness
Minor: Grief, Death, and Panic attacks/disorders
joslynmyers's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcohol and Mental illness
Moderate: Cursing, Panic attacks/disorders, Death, Vomit, and Grief
Minor: Toxic relationship and Injury/Injury detail
kmoz's review against another edition
hopeful
lighthearted
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
I don’t think I’ve ever wanted to slap a MC quite so much, but overall it was a lovely read.
Content Warnings
Minor: Cursing, Grief, Death, and Mental illness
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
evelynyle_88's review against another edition
lighthearted
slow-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
3.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Death
Moderate: Grief, Alcohol, and Panic attacks/disorders
andremay's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death
mirandyli's review against another edition
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.25
This was the book that made me realize that I absolutely cannot relate to the Gen Z YA genre.
The main plot in the beginning surrounds how the main character is upset that he has to move from NYC to Texas. He is upset because he has thousands of social media followers, and is unsure what will happen to his social influencer (journalist?) status. Call me old but... why do I care.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Gaslighting
sam_reads19's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
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? It's complicated
4.75
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death
brontosaurusbb's review against another edition
emotional
lighthearted
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
I love this book. I wouldn't say the romance was the strongest (not bad the book just had other more interesting things going on.) I loved the narrative of the boys figuring out their future and the look at the state of journalism. Over all a great book.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death and Grief
Minor: Vomit
bumblemee's review against another edition
lighthearted
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
3.5
Liked a lot of aspects and especially the space stuff. I don't know why I didn't fully love it, but I'll probably read another book by this author at some point because I think he's got some great books in him. Oh, and the cover is amazing, I love it!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Death
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders