Trajectory introduces readers to Eleanor, a bright seventeen-year-old whose mathematical prowess becomes a vital asset to the US Army during World War II. Driven by a deep concern for her Jewish relatives in Poland, Eleanor dedicates herself to a top-secret project, fine-tuning a weapon designed to aid the Allied war effort. The book handles the sensitive topic of WWII and the persecution of Jewish people by grounding Eleanor's motivation in this historical reality, without being overly graphic, making it accessible for its target audience. The emotional arc is one of determination and purpose, starting with a sense of urgency and building towards hopeful contributions. This book is specifically for young readers interested in historical fiction, particularly WWII, and those who appreciate stories about strong female protagonists in STEM fields. A parent might reach for this when their child is studying WWII, showing an interest in the contributions of women during that era, or exploring themes of justice and personal responsibility in times of conflict. Parents should be prepared to discuss the historical context of WWII, including the Holocaust, and the personal sacrifices made during wartime. Younger teens (12-14) will likely focus on Eleanor's ingenuity and the adventure of the secret project, while older teens (15-18) may delve deeper into the ethical dilemmas, the historical implications, and the emotional weight of Eleanor's personal motivations. What makes this book different is its focus on the often-overlooked scientific and mathematical contributions to the war effort, particularly from a young woman's perspective, offering a fresh angle on a well-covered historical period.
