Midnight at the Electric

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is facing a significant life transition, such as leaving for college or moving away, and is struggling to reconcile their personal ambitions with the emotional weight of saying goodbye. The story follows Adri, a girl preparing for a one-way trip to Mars, as she uncovers the interconnected lives of two other women from 1919 and 1934. Through these historical echoes, the book explores how the legacy of those who came before us can help ground us in the present. While the science fiction premise provides the framework, this is a deeply realistic exploration of grief, family secrets, and the enduring power of human connection. It is highly appropriate for ages 12 and up, offering a sophisticated but accessible look at how we find meaning in the world we are leaving behind. Parents will appreciate its ability to normalize feelings of isolation while ultimately offering a hopeful perspective on the value of our time on Earth.