Ruby Morris heard about the asteroid that almost collided with Earth--"honestly, it was boring"--but years later, dust from that boring asteroid infects water molecules with an alien virus that kills humans on contact. Alone and thirsty, Ruby holds tightly to the unlikely hope that her father is still alive. Ruby's diary-style narration lends some dark comedy to the post-apocalyptic doom and gloom.

Gr 6 Up-How hard could it possibly be to avoid the rain? According to the account of Ruby Morris, it's a lot harder than one might think: Ruby hails from the wet and dreary United Kingdom. After an imminent meteor strike is avoided, events lead to an alien bacterium-laced rain that is fatal and contagious. Stranded and devoid of any parental guidance, Ruby must cross vast distances and make choices even when no right answer exists. The first-person narrative allows for a unique perspective. The story and language will provide readers with an international scope and convey the tragic impact of the apocalyptic events. Young teens will find the protagonist entertaining and relatable. The beauty of the text lies in Bergin's ability to realistically explore the horrors of the world she's created. Attention to detail, coupled with a very strong main character, will draw readers in and make them think twice about leaving the houseat least not before checking the sky for signs of rain. Chad Lane, Easton Elementary, Wye Mills, MD

This entry in the teen dystopian genre brings life and humor to an otherwise dark situation. Ruby, a British teen who has just turned fifteen, has entered the realm of independence from her hippie mother and stepfather and her "surprise" baby sibling. Just as she begins to navigate the party scene, find a crush she can kiss, and see herself as an adult, a deadly phenomenon strikes the planet. An exploded asteroid yields a toxic bacterium that falls to Earth in the rain and becomes a lethal weapon that kills humans with one drop. The results are devastatingly immediate and contagious. Ruby must team up with the nerdiest geek in her school, despite her embarrassment, to help save an orphaned little girl and several pets. The story becomes an odyssey for Ruby: she must locate her biological father. The tale is peppered with references to modern teen life, including cell phones, laptops, and all of the myriad electronic devices of modern society. The first victim of the toxic rain falls because of his addiction to his devices.The story is well written from a teen's perspective, but adults may also identify with the accoutrements of adolescence, either from personal memory or as parents of the texting and video-gaming generation. The book is reminiscent of classic post-apocalyptic and dystopian novels, from Michael Crichton to Stephen King to Lois Lowry to Suzanne Collins. All of the elements of the hero's journey are here, told from the viewpoint of a teen. Descriptions of looting are made humorous when fashion, bling, and makeup are still a priority. The portraits of the dead are compelling. Reminders of the menace of fatal diseases in our modern world, such as AIDS and ebola, bring back the consequences of humanity's interference with the environment. Ruby's quest to find her biological dad is quite poignant, and the conclusion leaves readers hopeful. Because the story takes place in Britain, some of the references and allusions may require some translation, but all in all this is a great, high-interest read for contemporary teens.Jane Murphy.