THE EDGE OF FOREVER, by Meghan P. Browne, Feiwel & Friends, May 12, 2026, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 9-12)
A girl moves in with her aunt and finds herself in the middle of a town scandal in The Edge of Forever, by Meghan Browne.
Maisie is still reeling from the loss of her dad when her mom deposits her with Aunt Gertie at the start of summer in Heaven, TX. Population: tiny. Gertie is nothing but nice, but Maisie doesn’t want to be there – surrounded by cactus and tumbleweeds.
Thankfully, the Heaven Library is well air-conditioned. Here, Charlene the librarian offers Maisie much-needed solace and book recommendations. Then Maisie meets another actual kid, Walt Wise, Aunt Gertie’s nearest neighbor. As she and Walt work odd jobs together and become friends, they also stumble upon a stealth campaign to develop one of Heaven’s most beloved natural resources.
As Maisie and Walt research the development plan, they also uncover a long-buried, life-changing secret about Maisie’s family. This secret, along with an explosive event at the Heaven County Fair, will turn a sleepy summer into one Maisie and Walt will never forget. —Synopsis provided by Feiwel & Friends
The Edge of Forever is a quiet read. Author Meghan P. Browne’s prose has a reflective tone that plays well to an audience that likes introspection. Browne does a fine job setting the scene, transporting readers to hot, dry Texas.
Maisie is the star of the story, and it only works because of her. Maisie is bright, inquisitive and has a strong heart. She’s a resilient protagonist that’s likeable and relatable. Maisie is surrounded by a good cast of supporting characters, especially Charlene, who is the librarian we all need. Walt is interesting, but I would have liked more development when it comes to Aunt Gertie.
The Edge of Forever features themes of grief complicated family situations and meaningful friendships. It’s a wholesome read that feels familiar and doesn’t necessarily stand out among its contemporaries, but it’s enjoyable nonetheless.
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