wo seventh graders, Lincoln and Gary, came from completely different backgrounds. While Lincoln’s family can barely keep up with the bills, Gary has every material item he could ask for, and then some. In spite of their dissimilar environs, the boys are committed to one another since they are victims of dysfunctional households and school bullying. The one and only event they look forward to is stargazing on Gary’s roof. While stargazing, they dream of the day that they can get away from the lives they absolutely abhor. When their dreaming evolves into building a rocket ship, Lincoln and Gary have no idea that many of their classmates are also looking for a means of escape and want to join them on their maiden voyage.

Rising author C.O.B. has fashioned a story, flavored with Twilight-Zone elements, that focuses on the sad realities affecting our youth today. Written in third person omniscient viewpoint, C.O.B.’s debut young adult fantasy takes readers behind the scene of teens who assume dual personalities to survive in cruel surroundings. For examples, Lincoln’s hardened school persona, which masks the man role he is forced into while trying to care for his belligerent alcoholic mother. Gary, who although is a good student, has to hide his artistic abilities from his scholarly-minded and domineering father.

C.O.B.’s meticulous attention to character development does not stop with Lincoln and Gary, the main protagonists of the story. Of equal importance is Rahadonya, who is constantly taunted because of her Muslim customs yet has a different outlook about her accusers, and Mr. and Mrs. Stouhon, the old couple who come to the rescue in more ways than the boys could ever image. Lastly, on the flip side and earmarked as the antagonist, there is Jacob, who not only enters early into the story by utilizing his malicious bullying tactics towards the boys, but also keeps popping into the storyline during incredibly poignant scenes.

Behind the stoic and often hardened personas these teens embrace, Lincoln and Gary are just kids whose lack of maturity mirrors their quick-fix to address not only their troubles, but also a good handful of teens who want to follow in their lead. Again, C.O.B.’s attention to detail is incorporated in the plot, particularly balancing immaturity over maturity. For example, Mr. Stouhon reminds Lincoln of his duty as a leader: “…you must always remember that you are not in charge of power. You are in charge of protection. You have scared kids with you — kids like you!” C.O.B. also uses Rahadonya to remind Lincoln that running away is not always a solution.

C.O.B.’s story is truly an adventure that is extremely engaging and thought provoking from beginning to end. A mix of hardship and bravery infused with comedic relief as well as movingly unhackneyed twists, Rocket Ship is a must-read for both young adult and adult readers.