Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Super intense apocalyptic alien-invasion nail-biter.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 12 parent reviews
Parents say that this novel offers an intriguing premise of an alien invasion, creating a sense of tension and suspense that appeals to older children, though it has raised concerns about its suitability for younger readers due to its frequent use of swearing, sexual references, and a theme of distrust. Some reviewers enjoyed the book's gripping narrative and sci-fi elements, while others found it inappropriate for middle schoolers, arguing that the content can be too intense and distracting, particularly for younger audiences.
- intense content
- age appropriateness
- gripping narrative
- themes of distrust
- mixed reviews
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 62 kid reviews
What's the Story?
In the wake of an alien invasion, most of humanity has been wiped out. All that keeps Cassie Sullivan going is the promise she made to her younger brother, Sammie, and she will do almost anything to be reunited with him. After she's grievously wounded, she's nursed back to health by a mysterious stranger, Evan Walker, who seems to be keeping secrets from her. As Cassie struggles to trust Evan, she's unaware that the invaders are planning a new level of treachery that threatens to destroy every last human survivor.
Is It Any Good?
THE 5TH WAVE explores an apocalyptic scenario that still has some juice in it. By making the motives of the alien invaders opaque, author Rick Yancey keeps readers guessing and the level of suspense high throughout the book. Readers will find echoes of The Hunger Games, Ender's Game, and Stephen King's The Stand, but The 5th Wave displays plenty of originality. It's a nail-biter from beginning to end.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why stories about alien invasions are so popular. How can stories about extraterrestrials illuminate the human condition?
How do you develop trust between yourself and others, be it your family members, your friends, or your government?
How do real-life institutions, such as the government and the military, try to shape the personalities and thoughts of their members?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship , School ( High School )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Putnam Juvenile
- Publication date : May 7, 2013
- Number of pages : 480
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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