We Dream of Space

Set against the backdrop of the 1986 Challenger space shuttle launch, this powerful middle-grade novel follows three seventh-grade siblings navigating the turbulent atmosphere of their own fractured family. Cash feels like a failure, Fitch channels his frustration into arcade games, and Bird, a space-obsessed aspiring scientist, pins her hopes on the teacher-led "Mission" project. The impending national tragedy looms, mirroring the quiet disintegration happening within their own home.

Kelly masterfully captures the specific anxieties of adolescence and the complex dynamics of sibling relationships with unflinching honesty. The narrative voice is distinct for each character, making their individual struggles with self-worth, friendship, and a longing for stability deeply resonant. Readers who feel a bit lost themselves or who are captivated by stories of family and resilience will find a profound connection to this emotionally rich and unforgettable journey.