Orbiting Jupiter is incredible, a truly beautiful piece of work.

It’s narrated by 12-year-old Jack, whose life is changed when Joseph, his new 14-year-old foster brother, moves into his home on the family farm. Joseph has had a rough past, and– how’s this for ya?– he’s a father. At fourteen. His one wish is to track down his daughter, Jupiter. From there, the story unfolds.

It’s a very fast read. I listened to the audiobook, and it took about three hours. In just three hours, I was transfixed. A fire was lit in me. I cried like a baby.

This book was lovely and beautiful in a simple and stark and quiet sort of way. I will definitely be reading more Gary D. Schmidt books. By the way, I met Gary when I was in Chicago last month. He also gave a keynote presentation to the conference on Saturday. I should have guessed then by his gentle spirit and moving nature that this book would be the same.

Highly recommend.