Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Exciting alien-invasion thriller mixes sci-fi and magic.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
For 11-year-old Milo Silk, normal life ended when the alien Swarm invaded Earth when he was 6. Now he's plagued by cryptic dreams, his father is missing and presumed dead, and his mother is off on a dangerous mission. Meanwhile, Milo slogs through the bayous with a group of other young refugees. As he and his friends battle for their very survival, Milo realizes they may have a set of unexpected allies in THE NIGHTSIDERS, magical creatures who also fight against the Swarm.
Is It Any Good?
It's hard to find a fresh angle on the alien-invasion story, but veteran horror author Jonathan Maberry succeeds by adding an unusual supernatural element to the plot. Aimed at middle-grade readers, his new novel is fast-paced and action-packed, with a likable main character, a diverse supporting cast, and a formidable villain.
Sometimes the story feels a little out of balance, as Maberry piles on one incredible revelation after another. It's clear, however, that there will be further installments in this saga, and readers who enjoy science fiction mixed with magic will be ready and waiting for more.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the disruptive nature of war. What might it be like to be a refugee, separated from family and thrust into dangerous situations?
How do you define heroism? Are heroes always sure of themselves, or do they worry about their own shortcomings? Who are your favorite heroes in books you've read?
What is the nature of evil? Does it exist? Is it a supernatural force, or does it stem from human failure alone?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Adventures
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : May 19, 2015
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 400
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (abridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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