Susan Beth Pfeffer’s young adult dystopian novel, first published in 2006, depicts a teenage girl’s diary entries chronicling her family’s struggles for survival after an asteroid hits the moon, causing devastating natural disasters on Earth. The narrative portrays the rapid breakdown of societal structures and the challenges of securing basic necessities like food, water, and heat in a world transformed by catastrophic events.
This narrative provides a compelling exploration of resilience, adaptability, and the strength of family bonds in the face of unimaginable hardship. It offers a thought-provoking look at the fragility of modern civilization and the potential consequences of large-scale natural disasters. The book has resonated with readers and educators alike, sparking discussions about disaster preparedness, climate change, and the importance of community. It has earned numerous awards and inspired a series of companion novels.