The Gravity of Us

Synopsis: 

“As a successful social media journalist with half a million followers, seventeen-year-old Cal is used to sharing his life online. But when his pilot father is selected for a highly publicized NASA mission to Mars, Cal and his family relocate from Brooklyn to Houston and are thrust into a media circus.

Amidst the chaos, Cal meets sensitive and mysterious Leon, another “Astrokid,” and finds himself falling head over heels–fast. As the frenzy around the mission grows, so does their connection. But when secrets about the program are uncovered, Cal must find a way to reveal the truth without hurting the people who have become most important to him.

Expertly capturing the thrill of first love and the self-doubt all teens feel, debut author Phil Stamper is a new talent to watch.”

Review:

I read this book in 24 hours and that included my sleeping time and being at work too! It was such an engaging read! It was filled with pop culture references and a space race set in modern times. I loved how Phil Stamper took a time period in American history that was so iconic and brought it to life in the 21st century. He also consciously made the choice acknowledge the faults of NASA leadership during that time when very few and people of color were given the same opportunities as white men.

I could easily see the hot and humid Houston setting with older homes creating an idyllic neighborhood. And it was the perfect backdrop for a reality television set. Cal and Leo’s relationship felt very real with the fast fall into love. But even more, I liked their relationship even while managing Leon’s depression. What’s more, is that I really enjoyed the characters beyond just the main characters – Cal and Leon. The other astronauts, Cal’s parents, and Leon’s sister all help to move the story forward without feeling forced.

Finally, I really liked that Cal was so focused on telling stories through journalism. I think that making the choice to include social media can be a difficult one for authors as it often dates a book quickly. But, I really think in this instance it works. The social media isn’t just sitting in the background, rather it takes center stage as an integral part of Cal’s character. I liked Cal’s perspective of sharing news and information – looking for the truth and giving voice to the voiceless.

My Final Thoughts

This was a really fun read that I would definitely recommend. I enjoyed the integration of mental illness, the power of social media, LGBT characters, and, of course, astronauts! It has a great vintage feel, while also being relatable to 21st-century teens and their issues.

Need to Know:

Title: The Gravity of Us
Author: Phil Stamper
Publisher: Bloomsbury YA
Publication Date: February 4, 2020
Page Number: 320 pgs.