The Vanishing Deep

February 3, 2020
Five years before the start of this fast-paced ecological thriller, 17-year-old Tempest “Tempe” Alerin’s scientist parents were lost in a storm, and her beloved older sister, Elysea, drowned three years later. Tempe, who has survived by diving, scavenging her planet’s now-underwater Old World cities for goods to sell, believes that Elysea knew what really happened to their parents and may even have been responsible. After a lucky break, she can finally pay Palindromena scientists to resurrect Elysea for 24 hours. Doing a favor for a friend, Lor, 19, supervises Elysea during her revival, giving chase when Tempe smuggles Elysea off the island after revelations suggest that their parents might be alive. Though Lor races to catch them before the breach is discovered, he finds himself sympathizing with their plight. Scholte (Four Dead Queens) builds palpable suspense through Lor and Tempe’s alternating narratives while offering timely commentary on sustainability and responsible stewardship of land and sea. The sisters’ connection, especially with the shadow of Elysea’s impending second death hanging over them, adds a poignant urgency. Ages 12–up. Agent: Hillary Jacobson, ICM Partners.