by Shea Ernshaw
First published 2023
Vega has never left her valley home. Her mother forbids it, warning of dangers in the wilderness beyond their borders. But when Vega spots an omen in the night sky, she breaks the rules for the first time in her life. The world outside proves worse than her mother warned. A plague spreads across the land, stealing sight and hearing before claiming lives. Vega carries a secret that makes her both savior and target. She is the Last Astronomer, keeper of stellar knowledge passed down through generations. The constellation tattoo on her neck marks her role, and when locals see it, they turn violent. A girl named Cricket saves Vega from the mob and leads her to Noah, a boy with his own mysterious markings. Together, the three flee across dangerous plains. They search for a legendary cure hidden by ancient astronomers. As they travel, Vega struggles with an impossible choice. She can protect the sacred knowledge her ancestors entrusted to her, or she can risk everything to save a dying world.
Genres: science-fiction, adventure, fantasy, young-adult, astronomy, apocalyptic
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: chosen-one, found-family
Setting: Valley
Period: Ancient
416 pages · Paperback · Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers