Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Compelling teens drive genre-blending alien-invasion story.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
WE LIGHT UP THE SKY tells how high-school seniors Pedro, Luna, and Rafa, who barely know one another, are drawn together after Rafa meets an otherworldly girl who looks exactly like Luna's cousin Tasha, who died two years ago. Right off the bat it's clear something's definitely off about this mysterious Tasha twin, and strange things happen wherever she goes. Eventually the three find out that "Tasha" is just the first part of an immenent, full-blown alien invasion. The three grow closer as they search for answers and the end of the world grows closer, too. But what can three teens do against such overwhelming odds?
Is It Any Good?
This thought-provoking novel blends eerie ghost story, imaginitve fantasy, and sci-fi elements to create a story with broad appeal, seen through the eyes of three compelling and complex characters. The storytelling in We Light Up the Sky is straightforward and tight, which keeps the pages turning and leaves no room for subtlety, guesswork, or flowery language. Teens will relate to Pedro, Luna, and Rafa as they learn to work together; where their humanity lies; and not to let fear, guilt, or embarrassment close them off from life's possibilities. Readers will also have a lot of food for thought about important issues, many relating to social justice. The cliffhanger ending will have readers anxious for the next installment.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in We Light Up the Sky. How much is too much? Is reading about violence different from seeing it in movies, videos, games, etc.? Why, or why not?
Do you have a favorite character? Which one? Are Pedro, Luna, and Rafa good role models? What are their character strengths and weaknesses?
Why is diversity important in books, movies, and other media? What can we learn from reading about all kinds of lives and experiences?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Friendship , Fantasy
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Bloomsbury
- Publication date : October 26, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 13 - 17
- Number of pages : 272
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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