Strange Days

Seventeen-year-old Alex Mata lives an unexciting life in Los Angeles: he likes playing his guitar, tagging walls, skateboarding and hanging out with his friends. When he begins hearing ghostly music and a phantom voice, he is convinced these are signs he may be schizophrenic like his deceased uncle, and keeps them a secret from his parents.

Then, an alien murders Alex's parents in a manner similar to other recent attacks, dubbed Incursions, taking place across the world. The government denies these attacks are happening and, Alex, knowing no one will believe him, flees. Prompted by his inner voice, Alex travels to tech pioneer Jeffrey Sabazios's compound in Seattle; Sabazios believes the Incursions are real and promises security from alien hacking through his Live-Tech earpods and screens. At the compound, Alex discovers that his inner voice and music are connected to something greater: he is a "witness," a person who can move through time and change "human futures." Sabazios plans to use Alex and other teen witnesses at the compound to stop the invasion, sending them to "desired future events" where they can create the best outcome. But Alex grows suspicious of Sabazios's motives: Should he listen to those around him--or the voice in his head?

Singer's imaginative, contemporary sci-fi is perfect for fans of Marie Lu's Warcross or M.T. Anderson's Landscape with Invisible Hand. Readers will find their reality reflected in Singer's diverse cast of characters and in technology that feels authentic for use in the not-so-distant future. --Clarissa Hadge, bookstore manager, Trident Booksellers & Cafe, Boston, Mass.

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