The Flicker

Gr 5 Up–Edgmon’s (The Witch King) middle grade debut is a dystopian, anti-capitalist, Indigenous, gender nonconforming love letter to tweens. With the utmost respect for readers, Edgmon tells the story of Earth post-flicker, a solar flare that destroyed pretty much everything, through alternating-perspective chapters by recently orphaned stepsiblings Millie and Rose. Along for their quest is Corncob, their dog, and Sammy, their nine-month-old brother. They go to find Millie’s grandmother, a Seminole elder, and The Sanctuary, a rumored place of protection. Opposing The Sanctuary is The Hive, a massive “e-commerce and information technology” hub hoarding resources and using overt violence to maintain a position of power. With the help of the Lost Boys and their reclaimed bus, Millie and Rose must find their purpose and survive in this postapocalyptic world. The writing is engaging, the plot is lively, and the social dynamics are believable, even when presenting lessons. Edgmon doesn’t pull any punches with this book. There’s talk of murder—even cannibalism—and not everyone survives. A few strategic “screw yous” and “hell yeahs” provide some weight and authenticity. Through a story with some genuinely frightening moments, Edgmon helps readers explore identity. After all, who are we after all the systems we’ve used to define ourselves crumble? Fans of Patricia Forde’s The List will devour this one.