First published 2021
Cora finds a mysterious box on her doorstep on her twelfth birthday. The gift comes from Quinn, her former best friend who lives next door. The two girls haven't spoken in a year, not since Quinn's brother killed Cora's sister in a school shooting. Quinn's note explains her plan: travel back in time to stop her brother before he destroys their lives. Cora struggles with whether to believe Quinn's wild idea about creating a wormhole. Despite her doubts, she agrees to help. The former friends work together on their impossible project, trying to bend the rules of physics and time. As they experiment with their makeshift time machine, both girls confront their overwhelming grief and guilt. Cora mourns her beloved sister while Quinn carries the weight of her brother's actions. Their shared mission becomes more than just an attempt to change the past. Through their collaboration, they discover that their rekindled friendship might be the real magic they need to heal.
Genres: fiction, grief, contemporary, young-adult
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Next Door
Period: 12th Birthday
Audio CD · HarperCollins