Sci-Fi and Adventure rolled into one? KyRose Takes a Leap might be the answer!

In KyRose takes a Leap, protagonist KyRose struggles to find herself as she navigates her superpowers, something her classmates don't have. She can speak with and hear animals, a skill she wants to hide. She’s not popular, but a good move in gym class leads her to try out for the soccer team. Why? She doesn’t love soccer, but popular Georgia is the team’s captain, and KyRose wants nothing more than to circle in Georgia’s orbit. And she’ll do almost anything to stay there.

Now, layer over some futuristic elements, some magic, and lots of STEAM and you have a complex, adventurous, and fun read. With a “they all lived happily ever after” ending. I felt like the book tried to do too much in some spots, but I think middle-grade students would just gloss over that.  They will like this scientific and creative protagonist who takes them on mind-boggling technological adventures.

This science fiction book is a good fit for students who love animals, who are into AI and virtual reality, and who enjoy a good dose of middle school drama.

• Did you miss my review of Freewater, the 2023 Newbery Award winner by Amina Luqman-Dawson?  You can read it here.