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Five Faves: Science Fiction for Reluctant Readers

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Science fiction books have plenty of action and adventure behind a solid science background of possible alien technology, giant robots, worlds in outer space, and even dangerous experiments. If you like a good book with lots of creative stories that take place in the realm of science then check out one of these middle grade science fiction books. 


The Rhythm of Time
Written by Questlove and S.A. Cosby
New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2023. Fiction. 263 pages.

Rahim Reynolds loves testing out gadgets that his friend Kasia invents. For his birthday Kasia gave Rahim her best invention yet, a cell phone. It may not look great, but it worked, and Kasia even found a sketchy network so Rahim wouldn't have to pay for services. After Rahim begins to use his new phone, the two friends discover that the phone has some unique abilities. When the phone takes Rahim back in time, he quickly learns that if you change things in the past those changes also affect the future. 

This was a very entertaining book that kids will enjoy reading and talking about. The story is fast paced with some throwback information about 1990's hip hop music. A good choice for middle grade readers who like action, technology, and time travel wrapped up in one exciting book. 

Alien Summer
Written by James S. Murray
New York: Penguin Workshop, 2022. Fiction. 235 pages.

Vivian is looking forward to summer vacation and spending time with her friends -- not going to her mother's office for Take Your Kids to Work Day. When she gets to her mother's office, she is surprised to find her best friends are also at the office with their parents. It's a perfectly ordinary day in Area 51 until some aliens decide to break out and take revenge on the people who put them away. Now it's up to Vivian and her friends to save the day. 

This is a non-stop action and adventure book that takes off right from the beginning. The characters are funny and brave and are willing to sacrifice themselves for the good of the world as they battle this alien invasion. A perfect read for any middle-grade reader who enjoys a good action packed alien story.  

A Rover's Story
Written by Jasmin Warga
New York: Balzer + Bray, 2022. Fiction. 294 pages.

Resilience, a Mars rover built by scientists in a NASA lab to live and explore Mars, was not built to feel human emotions. This glitch may have been a problem with his programming, but when he is sent to Mars with a little drone helicopter named Fly, these human emotions are what keep him alive. While Res is gathering information about the planet Mars, he shows his resilience again and again as he learns to navigate Mars with all of it's difficulties while millions of people on earth follow his progress.

This is an inspiring story that is full of hope. You will find yourself rooting for this courageous robot and his companion Fly as they work together to discover what the planet Mars has to offer. If you love space, or NASA, or just science in general you will want to read this book. 


Stowaway
Written by John David Anderson
New York: Walden Pond Press, 2021. Fiction. 368 pages.

Leo Fender is living with his brother Gareth and their father, Dr. Fender, on an alien research ship in space, when it is attacked by aliens. The aliens are looking for a precious resource called Ventasium and since Dr. Fender is a Ventasium specialist they take him as a prisoner and Leo and Gareth are left behind. Not long after the alien attack the ship is attacked again, this time by space pirates. Leo and Gareth make a plan to stowaway aboard the pirate ship hoping that they can convince the pirates to help them look for their father. But space pirates can't always be trusted and now Leo must decide who he can trust in order to stay alive.

This middle-grade space book has authentic characters, a fast paced plot and is the kind of story that will engage its readers. An enjoyable read with some heartfelt moments that will keep you turning pages. If you like the Mandalorian or Guardians of the Galaxy you will enjoy reading Stowaway. 


Finn and the Intergalactic Lunchbox
Written by Michael Buckley
New York: Delacorte Press, 2020. Fiction. 271 pages.

Finn Foley has a unicorn lunchbox and it's awesome! You would never guess that this unassuming pink unicorn lunchbox is a space-traveling weapon, but it definitely is. When the lunchbox lid opens up it creates a wormhole that allows Finn to move through space and time with ease. But problems develop when other-worldly creatures want Finn's lunchbox. These creatures will stop at nothing to get this lunchbox weapon. When a giant robot named Highbeam shows up and offers to protect the lunchbox, Finn must form a team of unlikely friends in order to help Highbeam on his quest.

If you are a fan of "The Last Kids on Earth" or Doctor Who you will enjoy reading this action-packed sci-fi adventure. 








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