AT THE EDGE OF THE UNIVERSE

By Shaun David Hutchinson Simon Pulse, 496 pp.

Hutchinson embraces the unconventional in this interesting mix of metaphysical weirdness and romantic teen angst ( Ozzie is the only person who remembers his boyfriend, Tommy, who has gone missing — not just from town but apparently from all existence. Ozzie lashes out at therapists, has trouble dealing with pals and believes the universe is shrinking. While trying to figure out why and to see if he can find Tommy again, Ozzie begins to have feelings for loner Calvin when they’re paired up for a science project. The author deftly handles LGBTQ issues and relationships. And while the bigpicture concept is a little out there at times, Hutchinson metaphorically explores the way young love and loss has a tendency to spin one’s life out of control.