Anya and the Light Above the Ocean

LoveReading4Kids Says

June 2026 Debut of the Month

Amelia Giudici’s debut novel is a fast-paced, skilfully plotted sci-fi thriller that keeps readers on their toes by shifting our understanding of what is happening. With a strong emphasis too on human emotions and self-identity, it’s strongly recommended for fans of Kiran Millwood-Hargrave or Ross Welford.

It opens on the night Anya’s eco-scientist mother goes out to sea on her research boat and doesn’t return. Worried, Anya goes out after her and discovers a strange, very bright light above the waves. She touches it and can remember nothing more until she wakes up in the boat hours – days?

– later. Her mum is still missing, and Anya is sent to stay with strangers. Nothing feels right, and the more time goes by, and the more Anya discovers, the more unsettling, even frightening, it all becomes.

Giudici poses fascinating philosophical questions about identity, memory and consciousness, while keeping the plot gripping and the story accessible. An impressive debut novel, and absorbing, thought-provoking speculative fiction.

Reviewed by Andrea Reece
Andrea Reece has spent almost her entire working life in children’s books, first as publisher, latterly as consultant, project manager and critic.
More reviews by Andrea Reece

About Anya and the Light Above the Ocean

Anya reached out and placed her hand against the light. And then she was gone.

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