Children's sci-fiction book reviews

Last Updated on Friday, 03 August 2012 09:44

SOKC - Children

Aaron of the SOKC Children's department has two sci-fi books available at the library that you might enjoy in the last days before school starts.

George's Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy and Stephen Hawking

George's anti-technology parents have only created a love of computers in their son. When he discovers his neighbor's super smart computer, Cosmos, that can send people to outer space, George's adventures teach him about science, especially deep space, and human nature. The adventure becomes even more harrowing when his neighbor, Eric, is trapped in space by an evil scientist. It's up to George, his new friend Annie, and of course, Cosmos, to save him. The story in this book is a fun way for children to learn about the objects in the universe. The tale also has its touching moments that deal with the love of family, the importance of friendship, and choosing the righteous path.
Listed as an AR 5.6. reading level.

The True Meaning of Smekday by Adam Rex

When Gratuity Tucci (the narrorator) is 11, Earth is taken over by aliens called the The Boov. They move all the humans to Arizona. Gratuity is on a mission to find her mom, who was abducted by the Boov before they took over Earth. Along the way, she befriends a Boov and together, they battle an even scarier alien race-- the Gorg. This book is probably best-suited for older children or teens. It's a very creative, engaging, and funny book. Kids will like it, tweens will like it, teens will like it, and adults will like it. Some of the humor, however, children may not understand, especially that which references political corruption and economic crisis. There is also a little bit of language, and the story touches on tough subjects such as prejudice, loss of parents, etc...
Listed as an AR 4.5 reading level.