It started out as another news story on CNN. An asteroid was heading towards the moon, but no one really knew what it meant.

There were more important things to worry about such as your dad’s new wife, math tests or who likes who at school.

Then the asteroid hit and everything changed.

The moon was driven closer to earth and the gravitational pull caused earthquakes, rising waters, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis.

Coastal cities were destroyed and millions of lives were lost, but for Miranda and her family in Pennsylvania all they know is what they hear on the radio.

Suddenly it didn’t matter how well you did in school because school was cancelled. Soon the most pressing concerns were having enough food and staying warm.

“Life as We Knew It” is a thrilling and suspenseful read that will appeal to teens and adults. Narrated by Miranda in diary form, the book is captivating and impossible to put down.

Susan Beth Pfeffer has managed to write an apocalyptic book for teens that encompasses the insecurities most young adults face, coupled with the terror of a worldwide disaster.

Set aside some time to read this book because once you start you won’t be able to stop until you turn the last page.

Reviewer: Katie Guerin is the director of the North Shelby Library.