The Trap - by Steven Arntson (Paperback)

About the Book

In 1963, when twins Henry and Helen and their best friends, Alan and Nicki, try to find Alan's missing brother, Carl, they stumble into the knowledge of their "subtle forms" that can separate from their physical bodies, and into a criminal's plot to make himself immortal--at any expense.

Book Synopsis

It's the summer of 1963, and something strange is afoot in the quiet town of Farro, Iowa. The school district's most notorious bully has gone missing without a trace, and furthermore, seventh grader Henry Nilsson and his friends have just found an odd book stashed in the woods by Longbelly Gulch---a moldy instruction guide written to teach the art of "subtle travel," a kind of out-of-body experience. The foursome will soon discover that out-of-body life isn't so subtle after all---there are some very real, and very dangerous, things happening out there in the woods. The science fiction inventiveness of Madeleine L'Engle meets the social commentary of Gary Schmidt in this thrilling tale of missing persons, first crushes, embarrassing pajamas, and thought-provoking dilemmas.

Review Quotes

"The four friends encounter adventure and danger as they hunt for Carl, meet other astral travelers, and dodge the National Flux Travel Security Association...At times the book waxes philosophical, examining the nature of the body, consciousness, death, and humanity." --School Library Journal * "This riveting science-fiction mystery is much more than an exciting read...An amazing blend of mystery, romance, science fiction and social commentary." --Kirkus, starred review "The story deals with issues of friendship, mystery, and school crushes [and] should appeal to fans of science fiction and fantasy." --VOYA * "Henry's introspective, self-effacing narration brims with evocative details and descriptions...unspooling a haunting and suspenseful story that will resonate with science-fiction fans as well as anyone who has needed to find the courage to ask a date to the big dance." --Publishers Weekly, starred review "Aptly named, The Trap is a deceptively breezy, fast-paced mystery with an engaging kid narrator. Arntson weaves classic sci-fi elements into a fresh, fantastical story ideal for middle grades on up." --Booklist "This novel is a strong choice for readers new to science fiction who appreciate the power of storytelling to change the world." --Bulletin

About the Author

Steven Arntson, graduate of the Iowa Writer's Workshop, is the author of The Wikkeling and The Wrap-Up List. He writes books and music from his home in Seattle, Washington. Visit his website at www.stevenarntson.com.