If at the end of the year I were to write a list of the most surprising books I had read, Navigating the Stars would be on it. I went into it expecting a fun but largely forgettable read. Instead I got my first five star read of the year. 

It helps that the book has many themes which usually interest me - space travel, time dilation, archaeology, first contact, mystery, friendships and family relationships. The plot is in some ways fairly simple - this is definitely a YA book which could be read by younger teens - but both intrigue and emotion are packed into it and I found myself near tears more than once. The writing was excellent. 

If I have to give a criticism, it is that the book ended too abruptly. However, the copy I have has a preview of the first chapter of the second book in the series, and I'm very glad that I decided to read it because it actually worked significantly better as an ending. 

I absolutely loved this book. I started it first thing in the morning, and other than a necessary trip to the supermarket, I basically did not put the book down until I completed it late in the afternoon. If I had already possessed book two, I would certainly be picking it up straight away - as it is I ordered a copy while I was still reading book one, and I hope it arrives soon. I adored this book.