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We Do Not Welcome Our Ten-Year-Old Overlord
From master storyteller Garth Nix, the chilling story of a strange object that falls into the wrong hands and has the potential to destroy the world. Perfect for fans of STRANGER THINGS, THE LAST KIDS ON EARTH, and Neil Gaiman.
It's not fair. Kim's always lived in the shadow of his younger sister, Eila -- which is not how it's supposed to be. Eila is a prodigy, and everyone talks about how smart she is... but, in Kim's eyes, she has no common sense.
One day Kim and Eila are walking in the woods, and Eila finds an enigmatic, otherworldly object. Kim thinks it's bad news... but Eila begins to commune with it. Kim has every reason to be worried, because soon Eila is able to control the minds of everyone around her... in ways she says is the best for everyone.
Kim's problem-solving must go into high gear. He has to not only save his sister, but save the world from his sister and the forces she’s unleashed.
It's not fair. Kim's always lived in the shadow of his younger sister, Eila -- which is not how it's supposed to be. Eila is a prodigy, and everyone talks about how smart she is... but, in Kim's eyes, she has no common sense.
One day Kim and Eila are walking in the woods, and Eila finds an enigmatic, otherworldly object. Kim thinks it's bad news... but Eila begins to commune with it. Kim has every reason to be worried, because soon Eila is able to control the minds of everyone around her... in ways she says is the best for everyone.
Kim's problem-solving must go into high gear. He has to not only save his sister, but save the world from his sister and the forces she’s unleashed.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2024
31 people are currently reading
3934 people want to read
About the author
Garth Nix
236 books14.9k followersGarth Nix was born in 1963 in Melbourne, Australia, to the sound of the Salvation Army band outside playing 'Hail the Conquering Hero Comes' or possibly 'Roll Out the Barrel'. Garth left Melbourne at an early age for Canberra (the federal capital) and stayed there till he was nineteen, when he left to drive around the UK in a beat-up Austin with a boot full of books and a Silver-Reed typewriter.
Despite a wheel literally falling off the Austin, Garth survived to return to Australia and study at the University of Canberra. After finishing his degree in 1986 he worked in a bookshop, then as a book publicist, a publisher's sales representative, and editor. Along the way he was also a part-time soldier in the Australian Army Reserve, serving in an Assault Pioneer platoon for four years. Garth left publishing to work as a public relations and marketing consultant from 1994-1997, till he became a full-time writer in 1998. He did that for a year before joining Curtis Brown Australia as a part-time literary agent in 1999. In January 2002 Garth went back to dedicated writer again, despite his belief that full-time writing explains the strange behaviour of many authors.
He now lives in Sydney with his wife, two sons and lots of books.
Despite a wheel literally falling off the Austin, Garth survived to return to Australia and study at the University of Canberra. After finishing his degree in 1986 he worked in a bookshop, then as a book publicist, a publisher's sales representative, and editor. Along the way he was also a part-time soldier in the Australian Army Reserve, serving in an Assault Pioneer platoon for four years. Garth left publishing to work as a public relations and marketing consultant from 1994-1997, till he became a full-time writer in 1998. He did that for a year before joining Curtis Brown Australia as a part-time literary agent in 1999. In January 2002 Garth went back to dedicated writer again, despite his belief that full-time writing explains the strange behaviour of many authors.
He now lives in Sydney with his wife, two sons and lots of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
June 24, 2024
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
It's 1975 in Canberra, Australia, and Kim Basalt is living on an experimental farm with his sister and hippy parents who refuse to get a color television set. His best friend is Bennie, and both of them are twelve. They also both have ten-year-old sisters, Indigofera and Eileithyia, who bonded over their unual names. Kim is the dungeon master for the local Dungeons and Dragons games, and loves the Lord of the Rings books, and Bennie has been able to buy the supplies necessary to get them started. When the four are out one night, they find a glowing globe in the lake, and when they try to take it out of the water, it tries to take over Kim's mind. He manages to push it away, but it invades Eila's thoughts. She says it's fine; the spirit calls itself Aster, and wants good for the people of Earth. When Kim threatens to tell their parents, Eila points out that there is no plausible story he can construct for what has happened. It's a little alarming when he catches Eila sneaking out and standing on a hill of fire ants because Aster wants to study them, especially when they are dead the next day, but Kim also has things to do like read LeGuin's The Wizard of Earthsea and run errands for his mother up to Mrs. Benison's house. Their neighbor is 96 years old, has a daughter who is a police officer and lives in an old house that the neighbors would like to see torn down. Kim and Bennie are unable to get the globe away from Eila, and are even more concerned when Aster studies an injured kangaroo to find out how it's body works, and reduces it to a boneless mass of fur, and also when Aster accidentally kills two pet guinea pigs. Its influence is so strong over Eila, however, that she has it cure Mrs. Benison of her aches and pains, and convinces her parents to buy a television set. When it becomes clear that Aster is actually mounting an alien invasion, Eila finally sees the error of her ways and works with Kim and his friends to thwart this, helping them remotely through Kim's connection with the globe. They must get Aster out into the sunlight, but must first go on a harrowing journey. I won't spoil the twist at the end, or the explanation of who Aster is, but the title gives you a little bit of a clue.
Strengths: While this is a science fiction fantasy tale at its core, there is also a good bit of Nix's personal past in the historical fiction nature of the book, and is dedicated to his younger brother Jonathan, who passed away. The geek references are strong; not only is there D&D and Tolkien, but also Dr. Who, and Geryhawk, although (oddly) not Monty Python. The foreword says this is set in an alternate Australia, but I couldn't quite tell what made it different. I liked the relationship between all of the children, and the fact that Eila is represented as knowing Latin, Greek, French, German, Italian, and Spanish! Australians have been very good about honoring the contributions of Indigenous peoples, and Nix not only mentions this at the beginning of the book, but I believe that the Benison's might be Indigenous. This was a quirky fantasy that the blurbs say will appeal to fans of Stranger Things. (Which I should probably watch.)
Weaknesses: The cover and title of this aren't great, and might cause my students to leave this on the shelves. Twenty years ago, this would have been an automatic purchase, but I don't have Nix fans or avid fantasy readers the way I used to.
What I really think: This is more along the lines of Nix's middle grade The Keys to the Kingdom series or Troubletwisters than Sabriel and his young adult fantasies. I can see this being a good choice for readers who enjoyed Greenland's Scouts or Sedita's Pathfinders series.
It's 1975 in Canberra, Australia, and Kim Basalt is living on an experimental farm with his sister and hippy parents who refuse to get a color television set. His best friend is Bennie, and both of them are twelve. They also both have ten-year-old sisters, Indigofera and Eileithyia, who bonded over their unual names. Kim is the dungeon master for the local Dungeons and Dragons games, and loves the Lord of the Rings books, and Bennie has been able to buy the supplies necessary to get them started. When the four are out one night, they find a glowing globe in the lake, and when they try to take it out of the water, it tries to take over Kim's mind. He manages to push it away, but it invades Eila's thoughts. She says it's fine; the spirit calls itself Aster, and wants good for the people of Earth. When Kim threatens to tell their parents, Eila points out that there is no plausible story he can construct for what has happened. It's a little alarming when he catches Eila sneaking out and standing on a hill of fire ants because Aster wants to study them, especially when they are dead the next day, but Kim also has things to do like read LeGuin's The Wizard of Earthsea and run errands for his mother up to Mrs. Benison's house. Their neighbor is 96 years old, has a daughter who is a police officer and lives in an old house that the neighbors would like to see torn down. Kim and Bennie are unable to get the globe away from Eila, and are even more concerned when Aster studies an injured kangaroo to find out how it's body works, and reduces it to a boneless mass of fur, and also when Aster accidentally kills two pet guinea pigs. Its influence is so strong over Eila, however, that she has it cure Mrs. Benison of her aches and pains, and convinces her parents to buy a television set. When it becomes clear that Aster is actually mounting an alien invasion, Eila finally sees the error of her ways and works with Kim and his friends to thwart this, helping them remotely through Kim's connection with the globe. They must get Aster out into the sunlight, but must first go on a harrowing journey. I won't spoil the twist at the end, or the explanation of who Aster is, but the title gives you a little bit of a clue.
Strengths: While this is a science fiction fantasy tale at its core, there is also a good bit of Nix's personal past in the historical fiction nature of the book, and is dedicated to his younger brother Jonathan, who passed away. The geek references are strong; not only is there D&D and Tolkien, but also Dr. Who, and Geryhawk, although (oddly) not Monty Python. The foreword says this is set in an alternate Australia, but I couldn't quite tell what made it different. I liked the relationship between all of the children, and the fact that Eila is represented as knowing Latin, Greek, French, German, Italian, and Spanish! Australians have been very good about honoring the contributions of Indigenous peoples, and Nix not only mentions this at the beginning of the book, but I believe that the Benison's might be Indigenous. This was a quirky fantasy that the blurbs say will appeal to fans of Stranger Things. (Which I should probably watch.)
Weaknesses: The cover and title of this aren't great, and might cause my students to leave this on the shelves. Twenty years ago, this would have been an automatic purchase, but I don't have Nix fans or avid fantasy readers the way I used to.
What I really think: This is more along the lines of Nix's middle grade The Keys to the Kingdom series or Troubletwisters than Sabriel and his young adult fantasies. I can see this being a good choice for readers who enjoyed Greenland's Scouts or Sedita's Pathfinders series.
May 3, 2025
Thank you so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc of this one in exchange for an honest review!
This book follows a group of kids in the 70s in Australia. One day, they find a strange globe in a body of water. Things quickly go wrong when the globe starts to take control and do weird things. These kids have to save their town.
I thought this book was just ok. I think the idea was good and kids who like sci fi will enjoy this one. The writing was easy to read.
Unfortunately, I did feel a bit bored throughout. I wish the ideas were explored more and went into more depth. I also found the main girl to be so annoying. Bratty kids are one of the worst characters to follow in my opinion.
Overall, this book wasn’t bad but not my favorite either.
This book follows a group of kids in the 70s in Australia. One day, they find a strange globe in a body of water. Things quickly go wrong when the globe starts to take control and do weird things. These kids have to save their town.
I thought this book was just ok. I think the idea was good and kids who like sci fi will enjoy this one. The writing was easy to read.
Unfortunately, I did feel a bit bored throughout. I wish the ideas were explored more and went into more depth. I also found the main girl to be so annoying. Bratty kids are one of the worst characters to follow in my opinion.
Overall, this book wasn’t bad but not my favorite either.
August 3, 2024
WOW! WOW! WOW! Prolifuc Author of Fantasy and Science Fiction Garth Nix has truly succeeded in knocking it out of the metaphorical ballpark with this utterly delightful and endearing [and yes, approaching-end-of-the-world-type scary] Science Fiction Fantasy [SFF] Coming-of-Age in Australia 🇦🇺 novel. I love these characters; I love the bravery denonstrated repeatedly by these twelve-year-olds and ten-year-olds, despite sibling conflicts, envy of others' talents, difficult parents. ..and the imminent potential end-of-the-world by a Mind-Controlling Extradimensional Entity! There's an overall flavor of 1940's UFO flaps, without being specified. I just totally adore this title, eager already to reread!
June 7, 2024
We Do Not Welcome Our Ten Year Old Overload, flips the script on the typical sibling dynamic! Some readers can relate to the feeling of being overshadowed by a talented younger sibling, and Kim's frustration feels real. But the twist – Eila's newfound power, from a strange, basketball-shaped object, aka Aster, and Kim's desperate need to stop her – creates a high-stakes sci-fi adventure that promises fast-paced action. Elia faces a different kind of internal conflict: Does she truly believe she's helping everyone, or is there a darker motive lurking beneath the surface? Is her new found “friend’ really a friend or an alien being, out to take over the people of Earth? It’s up to Kim and his best friend Bennie to figure out what is going on and how to save everyone, while also trying to get in a game of D&D before everything is taken over by Aster.
January 26, 2025
*3.5 stars
I can't think of many other authors with whom I've had such a varied experience as Nix. I read a few of his middle-grade books years ago and LOVED them, and then pretty much everything I've read from him since has been just... okay. Not bad, not great, enjoyable for the time, but ultimately not the best of the year.
But the man continues to publish books with fascinating premises, so I'll probably continue picking them up, lol!
**content warnings for some off-screen animal cruelty (the characters see the aftermath and it's kinda intense)
I can't think of many other authors with whom I've had such a varied experience as Nix. I read a few of his middle-grade books years ago and LOVED them, and then pretty much everything I've read from him since has been just... okay. Not bad, not great, enjoyable for the time, but ultimately not the best of the year.
But the man continues to publish books with fascinating premises, so I'll probably continue picking them up, lol!
**content warnings for some off-screen animal cruelty (the characters see the aftermath and it's kinda intense)
October 15, 2024
This was such a fun middle grade supernatural adventure! I loved all the characters, the apocolyptic plot, and the D&D references were so fun for me as a D&D player myself!
Garth Nix did such a good job portraying believable 12 year old characters that were still relatable and fun to read even as an adult. While, sure, they make the questionable decisions that kids are prone to make, they make them in ways that make sense within the context of the story and the characters' personalities, and they worked to propel the plot of the story in an enjoyable way! I also enjoyed that while the adults were completely useless, as required by a good juvenile adventure book, that was also logically explained within the context of the plot!
This was also just such an enjoyable plotline to follow! There's something so entertaining to me about a group of kids trying to prevent a theoretical apocalypse, and this one had an element of Good Omens about it that I particularly liked. I felt like the whole plot and story had a logical flow as well, with occasional slow bits that offered a chance to get to know the characters better and appreciate interludes of old school Dungeons and Dragons.
As an audiobook, this one was also 5/5 stars! The narrator did such a good job helping to make this book and characters Australian in the best possible way, and I loved the character voices and the story flow that Thomas Larkin brought to the narration!
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and would not hesitate to recommend it to middle grade readers who enjoy sci-fi/fantasy, adventure, suspense, or just plain old nerdy fun!
Thank you to Libro.fm and the publisher for providing me with an ALC of this audiobook! This review is completely voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Garth Nix did such a good job portraying believable 12 year old characters that were still relatable and fun to read even as an adult. While, sure, they make the questionable decisions that kids are prone to make, they make them in ways that make sense within the context of the story and the characters' personalities, and they worked to propel the plot of the story in an enjoyable way! I also enjoyed that while the adults were completely useless, as required by a good juvenile adventure book, that was also logically explained within the context of the plot!
This was also just such an enjoyable plotline to follow! There's something so entertaining to me about a group of kids trying to prevent a theoretical apocalypse, and this one had an element of Good Omens about it that I particularly liked. I felt like the whole plot and story had a logical flow as well, with occasional slow bits that offered a chance to get to know the characters better and appreciate interludes of old school Dungeons and Dragons.
As an audiobook, this one was also 5/5 stars! The narrator did such a good job helping to make this book and characters Australian in the best possible way, and I loved the character voices and the story flow that Thomas Larkin brought to the narration!
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and would not hesitate to recommend it to middle grade readers who enjoy sci-fi/fantasy, adventure, suspense, or just plain old nerdy fun!
Thank you to Libro.fm and the publisher for providing me with an ALC of this audiobook! This review is completely voluntary and all opinions are my own.
October 24, 2024
Solid. I liked this, and I think my students will too.
May 30, 2025
Those 10 year olds just don't know when enough is enough!?
August 4, 2025
This was a good book I would have loved more answers but it reminds me of a mix of stranger things and black mirror it was good strange but good
July 30, 2025
When I saw weird little middle grade science fiction, I got excited. Who doesn't want to share a book with their students about a 4th grader who finds a weird object and uses it to do whatever because they, a 10-year-old, know best? However, I was pretty disappointed. This being a kid's book, it's short, but there's little to no explanation; readers just have to suspend disbelief and assume that everyone, kids and adults, just accept everything that's happening, even as it moves from just a tiny bit weird to full on grab-your-tinfoil-hat levels of weirdness. The story unfolds very quickly, but even with this being middle grade, I wanted a little more time to establish both their relationships/reasons for trusting each other, and the backgrounds on anyone other than Kim and Bennie. All in all, I'd probably skip this read aloud.
May 13, 2025
This is another great work from a master of story telling for children and young adults. Kim is 12, but in the shadow of his more intelligent younger sister. They live with parents who will not allow a TV or reading after dark. And then something happens to his sister, when an alien globe seems to take her over, although she insists she is still in control.
This story is full of classic children's story elements and it works on many levels. It is set in an alternative past Canberra - but not very alternative. There is a nostalgic element to this too. The story zips along to a satisfying conclusion. Great for the intended audience.
It won't be one of Nix's classics, but it is just another exemplar of what a good story teller he is. The intended audience will enjoy this.
This story is full of classic children's story elements and it works on many levels. It is set in an alternative past Canberra - but not very alternative. There is a nostalgic element to this too. The story zips along to a satisfying conclusion. Great for the intended audience.
It won't be one of Nix's classics, but it is just another exemplar of what a good story teller he is. The intended audience will enjoy this.
June 26, 2024
It was a good book! I was glad that in the end Eila realized that Aster was not good, and she decided to help them. For most of the book, I thought that Eila was the 'Ten-Year-Old Overlord,' because that is the title of the book, and Eila is ten. At the part where they were on the boat, trying to get Eila & Aster to the sunlight, there was a point when Eila summoned some wind to help them get there faster. However, Eila didn't know that the boat would nearly capsize if she summoned a gust of wind, they needed a steady wind. But EILA DIDN'T KNOW. I can imagine Kim was happy about that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2025
I enjoyed this book, though some animals meeting bad ends made me sad. Also, I kind of imagined Kim and Eila's family being Aboriginal Australians rather than "hippies." I had to set aside a lot of preconceived American notions of farms, what little I really know about the different ecosystems in Australia, and their school systems in order to not roll my eyes or get taken out of the story by what Garth Nix apparently assumes is common knowledge for all of his readers. My favorite part was probably the joy that the characters felt as discovering Greyhawk. Not a bad read.
June 2, 2025
Kim's younger sister Eila finds a strange glowing orb which ends up being a strange being. As Eila and the orb's activities elevate, Kim and his friends must decide what to do.
For a road trip book with the kids, this was a good one. I liked the quirks like being set in Australia and eccentricities of Kim and Eila's parents.
For a road trip book with the kids, this was a good one. I liked the quirks like being set in Australia and eccentricities of Kim and Eila's parents.
September 23, 2025
Stranger Things knock-off with blander characters and a plot that doesn't really keep the reader's attention. I suppose if it's your first venture into the sci-fi realm, it could be compelling to a middle schooler, but this has not been my favorite read.
Read
October 30, 2024Cuando estás leyendo y llegas a ESE momento en el que el título ya tiene sentido.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2025
this was very fun.
April 14, 2025
(3.5 rounded down) Australian 80’s meets D&D meets aliens. Quite wacky, but a fun read for a middle grade sci-fi novel!
Read
January 25, 2025Weird. But I guess if you’re a tween just getting a taste for science fiction, this fits the bill.
November 4, 2024
It was a great story that kept me intrigued throughout. It was just a lot shorter than I'd hoped it would be so it didn't stretch into what I imagine it could have been, but it was a fun ride. Always a fan of characters who play D&D though!
October 27, 2024
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Animal death, Gore, and Blood (non-pet, very short lived pet, deaths not on page)
Representations: https://trello.com/c/59KbB5rv/124-we-...
Tense, surprisingly gory (animal gore, not human) and I genuinely forgot that I think this is actually meant to be a middle grade book lmao.
The characters where a mixed bag for sure, it's hard to get decent character depth in a short time with so much else going on so it's not super character driven (especially with there being so many characters too) but you still get a decent show of their personalities - especially in the D&D sections!
The plot was insane and wild, certainly something that needs a good amount of suspension of disbelief, but also really felt like they were kids which was nice. A weird sci-fi, Stranger Things, D&D mix of things that works quite well. It's fast paced, manages to fit a lot in and while the ending feels a little ehhhhh it still works tbh. Just wish it worked in the ending reveal a bit better into the rest of the book.
D&D was a really nice inclusion, and the hand-made maps and details at the end + the authors note was really sweet honestly, the book really felt like a love-letter to proper "at-home" running with friends kinda style of game and played out a little like one too imo (though, the book's story would probably work better as a call of cthulhu game tbh :P).
November 22, 2024
A somewhat humorous title or at least to my mind anyway and I expected the usual Nix funnies in the book. I must admit that I found the book different from the usual more epic fantasy lines I've read of Nix even if there is still a fantastical aspect to the book. The setting (time & place) is that of his childhood (being inspired from his own shenanigans in the past) which I appreciated especially all the side comments on bikes, cycling, playground games etc including the friction between siblings. This was a fairly quick read though I did find the ending a bit anti-climatic after all the suspense and fun of the chase.
I was very excited in being gifted a Nix book to read but I found this just wasn't as memorable. While there was a sinister air; I just didn't find the book scary at all. I felt that it was rather tame but maybe because the target audience for this book is very much younger than me so if you have a sensitive child (like my younger one), you don't have to be too concerned as there wasn't anything too scary/gory.
My thanks to the publisher for gifting me a copy of this book.
I was very excited in being gifted a Nix book to read but I found this just wasn't as memorable. While there was a sinister air; I just didn't find the book scary at all. I felt that it was rather tame but maybe because the target audience for this book is very much younger than me so if you have a sensitive child (like my younger one), you don't have to be too concerned as there wasn't anything too scary/gory.
My thanks to the publisher for gifting me a copy of this book.
November 21, 2024
3.5*
This has a Goonies vibe to it. The friends and siblings, friend group and dynamics. So, it felt familiar yet new.
Not bad, considering I’m not at all the target demographic.
This has a Goonies vibe to it. The friends and siblings, friend group and dynamics. So, it felt familiar yet new.
Not bad, considering I’m not at all the target demographic.
March 15, 2025
Not My usual read but fun to try new books. This was an easy read and the story was well written. I can see students in late primary reading this writer with enthusiasm.
October 31, 2024
True Rating: 4/5 Stars
Content/Trigger Warnings: Mildly scary imagery, Children getting hurt (non-abusive), Adults trying to attack children, Offscreen and nongraphic wild animal death
"She never listened to her older brother, because Eila knew she was always right."
The moment I got a kindle alert that Garth Nix had dropped a new book, I knew I had to have it. That feeling only increased when I read the title. I've been a fan of Nix's writing since "The Old Kingdom Series" was known as "The Abhorsen Trilogy," and so far I've loved every book he's written -except for the New Kingdom books after "Abhorsen," but that's a tangent for a different time. One thing I haven't read a lot of, though, is his middle grade work, so when my Tokyo bookstore had this I took it as a sign and bought it right away. I could read it without having to deal with super slow overseas shipping? Yes please!
So, how was it?
Criticism
Not Eerie/Creepy Enough
Honestly, my biggest criticism with this book is that it wasn't quite creepy enough. This might be exacerbated by the fact that I just recently read a middle grade book that WAS super creepy, but I felt Nix didn't use the plot pieces quite as well as he could have. I KNOW he can get creepy when he wants to, and this story was just begging for a bit more of the eerie factor. Still, it is appropriate for even the titular age, so it does mean more young readers can access it.
Praise
The Writing
Even if I don't like a Garth Nix book, I will never complain about the writing itself. He's not a lyrical writer, his style is much more straightforward, and it works really well with this book. In fact, that style only adds to the atmosphere of the novel and how eerie it can get. Descriptions are given as fact, metaphors and similes used sparingly, and it fits right in with the plot. It also makes it a quick read, so readers who struggle with chapter books will enjoy how fast this one reads.
The World-Building
Another thing Nix excels at: worldbuilding. Even in this book, which does take place in our world (just an alternate version, read the note at the beginning) is rich with it. We get the feel of the small area our characters have access to, we can understand why the plot may happen the way it does, why characters might act the way they do. But again, he doesn't go overboard. There's still plenty of questions left at the end of the novel, and that's just how it should be.
The Characters
I really liked being in the head of our main character, Kim. As someone who grew up with an interest my family didn't understand/like and having to hide it, I felt for him and his situation. I could also, in a way, feel for his plight of being upstaged by his younger sibling. While my own wasn't smarter than his age, he was still known to my teachers before I was -which got annoying really quick. I also love that our main group is a bunch of nerds, and are really the only ones that can see what's going on. And that they have their own interests outside of their D&D obsession. They felt like REAL kids I had known or been, and I liked that a lot.
Final Thoughts
While not a perfect book, this was still a really fun read. Garth Nix delivered a story that was eerie, funny, and nerdy all at the same time. I feel like the cover and title combined gives a pretty good idea of what anyone can expect when reading the book. Definitely recommend!
Content/Trigger Warnings: Mildly scary imagery, Children getting hurt (non-abusive), Adults trying to attack children, Offscreen and nongraphic wild animal death
"She never listened to her older brother, because Eila knew she was always right."
The moment I got a kindle alert that Garth Nix had dropped a new book, I knew I had to have it. That feeling only increased when I read the title. I've been a fan of Nix's writing since "The Old Kingdom Series" was known as "The Abhorsen Trilogy," and so far I've loved every book he's written -except for the New Kingdom books after "Abhorsen," but that's a tangent for a different time. One thing I haven't read a lot of, though, is his middle grade work, so when my Tokyo bookstore had this I took it as a sign and bought it right away. I could read it without having to deal with super slow overseas shipping? Yes please!
So, how was it?
Criticism
Not Eerie/Creepy Enough
Honestly, my biggest criticism with this book is that it wasn't quite creepy enough. This might be exacerbated by the fact that I just recently read a middle grade book that WAS super creepy, but I felt Nix didn't use the plot pieces quite as well as he could have. I KNOW he can get creepy when he wants to, and this story was just begging for a bit more of the eerie factor. Still, it is appropriate for even the titular age, so it does mean more young readers can access it.
Praise
The Writing
Even if I don't like a Garth Nix book, I will never complain about the writing itself. He's not a lyrical writer, his style is much more straightforward, and it works really well with this book. In fact, that style only adds to the atmosphere of the novel and how eerie it can get. Descriptions are given as fact, metaphors and similes used sparingly, and it fits right in with the plot. It also makes it a quick read, so readers who struggle with chapter books will enjoy how fast this one reads.
The World-Building
Another thing Nix excels at: worldbuilding. Even in this book, which does take place in our world (just an alternate version, read the note at the beginning) is rich with it. We get the feel of the small area our characters have access to, we can understand why the plot may happen the way it does, why characters might act the way they do. But again, he doesn't go overboard. There's still plenty of questions left at the end of the novel, and that's just how it should be.
The Characters
I really liked being in the head of our main character, Kim. As someone who grew up with an interest my family didn't understand/like and having to hide it, I felt for him and his situation. I could also, in a way, feel for his plight of being upstaged by his younger sibling. While my own wasn't smarter than his age, he was still known to my teachers before I was -which got annoying really quick. I also love that our main group is a bunch of nerds, and are really the only ones that can see what's going on. And that they have their own interests outside of their D&D obsession. They felt like REAL kids I had known or been, and I liked that a lot.
Final Thoughts
While not a perfect book, this was still a really fun read. Garth Nix delivered a story that was eerie, funny, and nerdy all at the same time. I feel like the cover and title combined gives a pretty good idea of what anyone can expect when reading the book. Definitely recommend!
August 21, 2024
What worked:
The concept of the book is very intriguing. Kim’s younger sister is a know-it-all but becomes possessed by some ball-like being from space. Kim can stop it from taking over his mind so he knows how dangerous it can be. However, Eila thinks she’s helping the being she calls Aster so she won’t listen to her brother’s warnings. Kim becomes more worried when Eila starts sneaking the orb out at night and he watches the alien’s light kill thousands of red ants. He tries to get rid of the ball but receives an electric shock for his efforts. Readers’ emotions will range from concern for Eila, to annoyance with her superior attitude, to anger that she’s endangering other humans. Aster’s initial experiments aren’t too serious so readers aren’t sure what to make of the alien. Will it end up helping the world as Eila claims or will Kim’s worst fears come true?
Kim’s best friend is Bennie and the two of them have a tight bond. She always supports Kim’s ideas but she can be more impulsive than him. She���s willing to try touching Aster even after it sends a jolt of electricity through Kim. Their other two D&D friends, Tamara and Theo, become more significant characters in the second half of the book. They’re skeptical of Aster’s existence at first until Kim shows them solid evidence. Theo is the most thoughtful character as he doesn’t jump to conclusions and takes the time to observe and ponder possibilities. He offers a more practical viewpoint than what Kim and Bennie show up to that point.
The author adds a contrast in lifestyles through Kim and Bennie’s families. Kim’s parents run an experimental farm for the government and don’t believe in electronics. The kids are required to help with chores around the house and the farm and they insist on the whole family sitting together for dinner at six o’clock. Kim’s parents wouldn’t approve if they knew he was playing Dungeons and Dragons with his friends. On the other hand, Bennie’s parents are busy with their careers and rarely spend time with their kids. They often argue in front of Bennie and her sister which puts a lot of strain on their mental health. Kim and Bennie are well acquainted with each other’s family situations and they’re always there for each other with emotional support.
What didn’t work as well:
Kim has viable evidence that the ball is dangerous but the author still has him go through the motions of his normal life. He knows the alien is a threat to humanity so why is Kim having fun playing Dungeons and Dragons instead of obsessing over the problem? His friends still want to make time to play the game even as the problem escalates. Readers may wonder if the game is more important than simply being a fun activity.
The final verdict:
Eila’s know-it-all attitude adds a twist to the conflict as the action ramps up to an exciting, suspenseful climax. The possession of a ten-year-old girl is unusual and compelling which should attract the interest of young readers. I recommend you give this book a shot.
The concept of the book is very intriguing. Kim’s younger sister is a know-it-all but becomes possessed by some ball-like being from space. Kim can stop it from taking over his mind so he knows how dangerous it can be. However, Eila thinks she’s helping the being she calls Aster so she won’t listen to her brother’s warnings. Kim becomes more worried when Eila starts sneaking the orb out at night and he watches the alien’s light kill thousands of red ants. He tries to get rid of the ball but receives an electric shock for his efforts. Readers’ emotions will range from concern for Eila, to annoyance with her superior attitude, to anger that she’s endangering other humans. Aster’s initial experiments aren’t too serious so readers aren’t sure what to make of the alien. Will it end up helping the world as Eila claims or will Kim’s worst fears come true?
Kim’s best friend is Bennie and the two of them have a tight bond. She always supports Kim’s ideas but she can be more impulsive than him. She���s willing to try touching Aster even after it sends a jolt of electricity through Kim. Their other two D&D friends, Tamara and Theo, become more significant characters in the second half of the book. They’re skeptical of Aster’s existence at first until Kim shows them solid evidence. Theo is the most thoughtful character as he doesn’t jump to conclusions and takes the time to observe and ponder possibilities. He offers a more practical viewpoint than what Kim and Bennie show up to that point.
The author adds a contrast in lifestyles through Kim and Bennie’s families. Kim’s parents run an experimental farm for the government and don’t believe in electronics. The kids are required to help with chores around the house and the farm and they insist on the whole family sitting together for dinner at six o’clock. Kim’s parents wouldn’t approve if they knew he was playing Dungeons and Dragons with his friends. On the other hand, Bennie’s parents are busy with their careers and rarely spend time with their kids. They often argue in front of Bennie and her sister which puts a lot of strain on their mental health. Kim and Bennie are well acquainted with each other’s family situations and they’re always there for each other with emotional support.
What didn’t work as well:
Kim has viable evidence that the ball is dangerous but the author still has him go through the motions of his normal life. He knows the alien is a threat to humanity so why is Kim having fun playing Dungeons and Dragons instead of obsessing over the problem? His friends still want to make time to play the game even as the problem escalates. Readers may wonder if the game is more important than simply being a fun activity.
The final verdict:
Eila’s know-it-all attitude adds a twist to the conflict as the action ramps up to an exciting, suspenseful climax. The possession of a ten-year-old girl is unusual and compelling which should attract the interest of young readers. I recommend you give this book a shot.
July 10, 2025
I'm surprised this book isn't more liked and I differ with reviewers on a few points. First I think this is a GREAT title and a GREAT cover. These are two thiings that stood out to me and other people who've seen the book. I know someone who doesn't really know who Garth Nix is (sorry Garth, no disrespect meant, but this person isn't really into children's books) and happened to see the book when in the kids' section with me and pointed to it and said, "What a cool book!"
I'm not sure if the title is aiming at a different audience from the content. The story is a middle grade sci-fi adventure. But it isn't called "Kim and the Adventures of the Scary Alien Globe" - however, I like that it is different.
Was this book perfect? Was this book Garth's best? No and No in my opinion. However it was a solid, compelling read - I read it in one sitting and desperately hoped nobody would interrupt me. I didn't want to have to put it down. I was very much engaged and I also felt it was easy enough to read in one go.
The story is set in an alternate Canberra but it is very much recognisable, and you don't have to worry too much about the alternate bits. The main character, Kim has a precocious younger sister, Eila, who finds a globe she claims is named Aster and the globe seens to have a strange effect on her. Kim is somewhat concerned.
Kim is also very involved in his D&D games and has other house and family issues but he's really worried about Eila. Eila has always been the smart one - she can read several languages, she always knows everything, but now she's extra different and even more know-it-all, claiming that she knows everything about this weird globe that he suspects may not be that benevolent.
The book rushes along and there's plenty of adventure. I thought it was a great premise and the kooky globe and the way it affected people was a great idea. The main issue was that it could have been explored more thoroughly and we're left at times asking "why?" and wanting a bit more background to give depth to the story. But the adventure part is solid, we just need some more meaningfulness.
I was expecting a bit more from the ending but there was a great build up to there and I did feel invested in getting there.
I enjoyed the details of the D&D even though I don't play it and the different relationships between friends, siblings, the older Mrs Benison and the parents. The characters were good.
I'm not sure if the title is aiming at a different audience from the content. The story is a middle grade sci-fi adventure. But it isn't called "Kim and the Adventures of the Scary Alien Globe" - however, I like that it is different.
Was this book perfect? Was this book Garth's best? No and No in my opinion. However it was a solid, compelling read - I read it in one sitting and desperately hoped nobody would interrupt me. I didn't want to have to put it down. I was very much engaged and I also felt it was easy enough to read in one go.
The story is set in an alternate Canberra but it is very much recognisable, and you don't have to worry too much about the alternate bits. The main character, Kim has a precocious younger sister, Eila, who finds a globe she claims is named Aster and the globe seens to have a strange effect on her. Kim is somewhat concerned.
Kim is also very involved in his D&D games and has other house and family issues but he's really worried about Eila. Eila has always been the smart one - she can read several languages, she always knows everything, but now she's extra different and even more know-it-all, claiming that she knows everything about this weird globe that he suspects may not be that benevolent.
The book rushes along and there's plenty of adventure. I thought it was a great premise and the kooky globe and the way it affected people was a great idea. The main issue was that it could have been explored more thoroughly and we're left at times asking "why?" and wanting a bit more background to give depth to the story. But the adventure part is solid, we just need some more meaningfulness.
I was expecting a bit more from the ending but there was a great build up to there and I did feel invested in getting there.
I enjoyed the details of the D&D even though I don't play it and the different relationships between friends, siblings, the older Mrs Benison and the parents. The characters were good.
October 15, 2024
Ahoy there me mateys! This is a sci-fi standalone that takes place in 1975 in Canberra, Australia. Kim and his best friend Bennie are 12-years-old. They both have "unusual" names and little sisters. They spend their days riding their bikes and get drawn into playing a new game called Dungeons and Dragons. Then one day they find a mysterious glowing orb that wants to connect with their minds.
Kim manages to fight it off and save his friend Bennie. He does not manage to rescue his little sister Eila. Kim knows the orb is dangerous. Eila, the 10-year-old prodigy, knows she is always right. The orb, Aster, is going to help her do great things. How is Kim going to help free his sister and possibly save the world?
Though Kim is very worried, there is still school, daily chores, and errands to run for his parents. The Dungeon and Dragons game is the only activity helping him get through the days while battling his anxiety and trying to come up with a solution.
This was a cute middle grade novel even though the build up was rather slow. Kim feels like a fleshed out character though the others are rather flimsily shown. I loved that Kim had parents that he both respected and loved. The climax was rather unbelievable due to the sailing elements. However, I have to admit that the middle grade audience will likely love the climax and the rather mundane way Aster is dealt with.
This book is definitely geared toward younger kids. The adult side of me was not super impressed but knows I would have loved this book when I was little. If the younger reader likes aliens then they will likely enjoy this book. Arrr!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Kim manages to fight it off and save his friend Bennie. He does not manage to rescue his little sister Eila. Kim knows the orb is dangerous. Eila, the 10-year-old prodigy, knows she is always right. The orb, Aster, is going to help her do great things. How is Kim going to help free his sister and possibly save the world?
Though Kim is very worried, there is still school, daily chores, and errands to run for his parents. The Dungeon and Dragons game is the only activity helping him get through the days while battling his anxiety and trying to come up with a solution.
This was a cute middle grade novel even though the build up was rather slow. Kim feels like a fleshed out character though the others are rather flimsily shown. I loved that Kim had parents that he both respected and loved. The climax was rather unbelievable due to the sailing elements. However, I have to admit that the middle grade audience will likely love the climax and the rather mundane way Aster is dealt with.
This book is definitely geared toward younger kids. The adult side of me was not super impressed but knows I would have loved this book when I was little. If the younger reader likes aliens then they will likely enjoy this book. Arrr!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2024
ARCQuest: Book 36
"It's evil," said Kim.
“You don't know that. Life isn't D and D. You can't cast a Detect Evil spell. And Eila said Aster won't do
anything bad."
"Not exactly," said Kim quietly. They had joined the line ouside the classroom and other people could hear. “Eila told us the globe will do what she tells it to do."
"So?" asked Bennie. "That's okay, isn't it?"
"Maybe," said Kim doubtfully. "Eila's always so certain she knows what's right, but ...
"She is super smart," said Bennie.
"Yeah," replied Kim. "But she's still ten."
When Kim’s know-it-all little sister Eila finds a mysterious orb near their home, Kim is wary. He doesn’t know what it wants, but he’s scared of what it could do left in the hands of his ten-year-old sister. Eila is convinced that the globe, Aster, just wants to learn about life on Earth so she can help people. Eila is always right, but what if, this time, she’s very, very wrong? Convinced he has to do something, and knowing that no adult will believe him, he and his friends set out to find out what Aster wants before it’s too late.
Wow, this was actually pretty tense and action-packed by the finale! I could picture this easily being adapted into one of those unsupervised-children-facing-actual-life-threatening-events films à la The Goonies or Stranger Things. I do wish that there was a little more about what happened after everything wraps up (what sort of lasting effects are lingering in the town?), but overall this was a fun, quick read that I really enjoyed.
"It's evil," said Kim.
“You don't know that. Life isn't D and D. You can't cast a Detect Evil spell. And Eila said Aster won't do
anything bad."
"Not exactly," said Kim quietly. They had joined the line ouside the classroom and other people could hear. “Eila told us the globe will do what she tells it to do."
"So?" asked Bennie. "That's okay, isn't it?"
"Maybe," said Kim doubtfully. "Eila's always so certain she knows what's right, but ...
"She is super smart," said Bennie.
"Yeah," replied Kim. "But she's still ten."
When Kim’s know-it-all little sister Eila finds a mysterious orb near their home, Kim is wary. He doesn’t know what it wants, but he’s scared of what it could do left in the hands of his ten-year-old sister. Eila is convinced that the globe, Aster, just wants to learn about life on Earth so she can help people. Eila is always right, but what if, this time, she’s very, very wrong? Convinced he has to do something, and knowing that no adult will believe him, he and his friends set out to find out what Aster wants before it’s too late.
Wow, this was actually pretty tense and action-packed by the finale! I could picture this easily being adapted into one of those unsupervised-children-facing-actual-life-threatening-events films à la The Goonies or Stranger Things. I do wish that there was a little more about what happened after everything wraps up (what sort of lasting effects are lingering in the town?), but overall this was a fun, quick read that I really enjoyed.
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