Clues to the Universe by Christina Li
Published by Quill Tree Books on January 12, 2021
ISBN: 0063008882
Pages: 304
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Rosalind Ling Geraghty and Benjamin Burns are pretty different but both nerdy in their own right. They become friends after being paired in science class and finding a mutual interest in things related to space and space travel. They have more in common than that, though—Ro’s father recently and unexpectedly died, and Benji’s father disappeared from his life when he was a baby, and Benji has never known him. When Benji and Ro discover some clues to the whereabouts of Benji’s father, they hatch a plan to find and meet him. Things, of course, don’t always go as planned, but they learn a lot along the way.

Alternating between Benji’s and Ro’s perspective, this is a fun book about friendship, family, science, loss, bullying, and adventure. Benji and Ro are relatable, and the plot moves well and is engaging. Things wrap up a little too quickly, easily, and seamlessly, but overall it is a good book that many kids will enjoy. Recommended for readers 4th grade and up.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME