Holm, Jennifer L. Outside. Scholastic, 10/2025. 240pp. Fiction. Trade $17.99. 978-1-5461-3814-3. GRADES 4–8. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Twelve-year-old Razzi describes what it is like for kids like her to live at the Refuge after an apocalyptic war that resulted in The Great Poisoning. Their parents and the other adults protect the children and provide for their needs, but many of the children have trouble coping with their new reality. When Razzi decides to go outside the walls of the compound, will she be safe, and what will she find? This briskly told science fiction/mystery novel clearly sets up the circumstances and action of the Refuge, with relatable characters. Their ethnic backgrounds are not spelled out but Razzi presents as white and others have names indicating they are people of color. The author builds a world clearly with just enough detail, although Razzi makes several unsafe choices after running away, which seems out of character. This would make a great book for a tween book discussion group or tween classroom readaloud. Review based on an ARC.
Penny Peck—San José State University iSchool