Connect The Stars

Discover the heartfelt middle grade adventure Connect the Stars by Marisa de los Santos and David Teague, a moving and uplifting story about friendship, self-acceptance, and finding your place in the world. Perfect for fans of Counting by 7sand Hello, Universe, this wilderness adventure blends emotional depth with humor, resilience, and the power of human connection.

When thirteen-year-olds Aaron and Audrey meet at a desert wilderness camp, they each believe their differences set them apart from everyone else. Both feel like misfits—certain that their quirks, struggles, and insecurities will keep them from ever forming real friendships. But as they embark on a challenging trek through the harsh and beautiful landscape, their expectations begin to shift in unexpected ways.

As Aaron and Audrey face physical challenges, emotional growth, and moments of vulnerability, they begin to see themselves—and each other—more clearly. Slowly, they realize that what they thought were flaws may actually be strengths, and that connection can be found in the most unlikely places.

Tender, thoughtful, and full of heart, Connect the Stars explores themes of bullying, belonging, identity, and living with both physical and mental challenges. It is a powerful and joyful story about two kids learning that they don’t have to be perfect to be whole—just real.