This well-thought-out novel plots the days and months following the deadly comet’s aftermath, including the fortitude of adolescents as they deal with the deaths of their parents and figure out how to survive. Although the children on the island mostly work together, Cramer also gives glimpses of all that could go wrong with a society led by children. With cruelty and bullying inexorably linked to the children’s survival, Cramer’s novel is reminiscent of other dystopian young adult novels, although its modern take is decidedly unique. The faceless adults of the CDC create the antibiotics to provide the cure, but the real heroes are the children—Abby and Jordan especially—who look to pass on kindness and camaraderie despite the intensely competitive, grim circumstances. Cramer creates a picture of our world that’s both frightening and inspiring in this heartfelt story that both young adults and adults can enjoy.