“I am eleven years old, and I am invisible.”

From Deborah Wiles’ Countdown.

In 1962, almost-twelve-year-old Franny is facing challenges on every front in her life.  While her issues at home include a often-missing older sister, a perfect little brother, and a veteran uncle struggling with mental issues, Franny’s biggest concern is the nuclear war that everyone is sure will kick off any day now.  Feeling isolated both at home and at school, since she’s fighting with her best friend, Franny is overwhelmed and clueless with how to move forward.  When President Kennedy announces the development of Russian nuclear power in Cuba, the fear in Franny’s life and the entire country skyrockets.  As the Cuban Missile Crisis unfolds, the news is full of constant updates, school constantly runs bomb drills, and families try to find ways to cope.  With no other options, Franny pushes forward with her life, preparing for the school dance, figuring out what’s up with her friend, and figuring out what it means to grow up during such a crazy, hectic time.

Wiles’ uses genuine characters, engaging writing, and a quick pace to create this captivating look at a major historical event.  The story has depth so that readers can easily connect with the main character while taking in all the information provided for other characters, settings, and events.  Both the print and audiobook versions contain supplemental, although random historical material, which can be too distracting for some readers, but it does help bring the past to life.  Countdown is a must-read for readers of all ages as it allows child readers to learn through history and adult readers to process their past.