The Cost of Knowing

„The Cost of Knowing“ tells the heart-wrenching story of a teenager who is cursed with the ability to tell the future. Sixteen-year-old Alex tries to be his best self – a reliable employee, a devoted boyfriend, a good brother. But staying focused and present is hard for him, because every time he touches something or someone he catches a glace of the object’s or person’s future. When Alex forsees his little brother‘s imminent death, he is heart-broken. He knows he can’t change the future, but is determined to do everything in his power to make Isaiah’s remaining days the best they can possibly be. I love the concept of this book. It is intriguing, dramatic and quite unique. It is, however, a rather exhausting read. Alex’s frequent visions keep interrupting the flow of the story and make it feel rather lengthy at times. Of course, that shows perfectly how tiring the protagonist’s condition must be, but it also made me put the book aside for a few days a couple of times. Once you reach the halfway point, the story gets rather gripping, though, and takes a turn I did not expect. I love the development of the brothers‘ relationship and the journey they go on together. I also appreciate that Brittney Morris sheds a light on what it’s like to be a young black man in the US and many other places. I recommend „The Cost of Knowing“ to teens who are looking for a contemporary novel about racism. It really is a thought-provoking and - thanks to the supernatural twist – fresh read.