Reviewed by Michelle, a high school student

This is a book about heritage, perseverance, and coming of age. Candace, the Universe, and Everything tells of a girl named Candace struggling with the shifts involved with growing up as she discovers a fantastical world inside of her locker, where she meets two women researching and experimenting on portals. The tale explores Black heritage, women in STEM, and difficulties of growing up with friends with the use of humor and inventive language. The connections she makes with the women in the locker prompts her to consider her place in the universe as she transitions to a difficult period in her life. Candace, the Universe, and Everything is a remarkable story about intergenerational struggles and development. This is highly recommended to young adults grappling with identity and self-doubt.