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What Fell from the Sky
From Pura Belpré Honoree and Edgar Award Winner Adrianna Cuevas comes an out-of-this-world middle grade adventure, based on true historical events, perfect for fans of The Goonies and Stranger Things.
All Pineda Matlage wants is to get through the school year and maybe pull an epic prank or two with his friends Junior, Ernesto, and Patsy. But class is disrupted when a slew of American soldiers descends upon their rural Texan town of Soledad. They’ll be carrying out a training exercise and taking over everything, from Pineda’s school to the local government.
But Pineda knows why they’re really here. For days he’s hidden the strange creature who fell from the sky in his parents’ barn. He promised her he’d find her family and help them return home. But with soldiers now on every street corner and armed checkpoints across every road, reuniting his new friend with her missing parents seems an impossible task. Especially when they realize that the army’s presence is really a coverup for capturing his alien friends―being observed in a laboratory by the US government for reasons of their own.
Enlisting the help of his friends, a Black soldier adjusting to a newly integrated army, and townspeople tired of the military’s destructive presence, Pineda and all of Soledad will embark on an adventure none of them could have ever expected.
All Pineda Matlage wants is to get through the school year and maybe pull an epic prank or two with his friends Junior, Ernesto, and Patsy. But class is disrupted when a slew of American soldiers descends upon their rural Texan town of Soledad. They’ll be carrying out a training exercise and taking over everything, from Pineda’s school to the local government.
But Pineda knows why they’re really here. For days he’s hidden the strange creature who fell from the sky in his parents’ barn. He promised her he’d find her family and help them return home. But with soldiers now on every street corner and armed checkpoints across every road, reuniting his new friend with her missing parents seems an impossible task. Especially when they realize that the army’s presence is really a coverup for capturing his alien friends―being observed in a laboratory by the US government for reasons of their own.
Enlisting the help of his friends, a Black soldier adjusting to a newly integrated army, and townspeople tired of the military’s destructive presence, Pineda and all of Soledad will embark on an adventure none of them could have ever expected.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published February 11, 2025
14 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
About the author
Adrianna Cuevas
10 books137 followersAdrianna Cuevas is a first-generation Cuban-American originally from Miami, Florida. A Spanish, ESOL and TOEFL teacher, Adrianna currently resides in Austin, Texas with her husband and son. When not working with TOEFL students, wrangling multiple pets including an axolotl, and practicing fencing with her son, she is writing her next middle grade novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
April 18, 2025
"What Fell From the Sky" is a fantastic blend of historical fiction based on true events with science fiction straight from the author's imagination. This story blends an adventure story of self discovery and friendship with history and social commentary.
At the height of the Cold War, thousands of soldiers fell from the sky and took over a small Texas town. The Aggressor Nation which liberated Texas was actually an army exercise in preparedness for a communist invasion. the townspeople played along with the scenario at first, but eventually they became embittered by the destructive army forces. Adrianna Cuevas wondered how people would have reacted if the soldiers weren't the only thing that fell from the sky. This great middle grade novel follows a sixth grade boy who discovers an alien girl hiding in his barn.
Cuevas has set the scene with a picturesque depiction of a small town in the early 1950's and populated it with a colorful collection of characters. The story alternates from the point of view of a half Cuban kid who tries to blend in and a frightened young girl who has been separated from her parents. Since Pineda can't replicate the sounds of her language, he names her Louisa and promises to help her find her parents. When it becomes evident that the Louisa's parents have been captured by the military and that soldiers are actually on an alien hunt searching for her, the stakes become even higher. Pineda can't save the visitors alone, and soon enlists the help of his friends, a black soldier in a newly integrated army, and eventually the disgruntled townspeople. The friends consist of a diverse group of characters and the story is reminiscent of "The Goonies" in that respect. The adults in this story are also well fleshed out and entertaining. This fast paced story was an engrossing read that I could not put down.
One of the things that makes this story fantastic is that it explores how people who are different have always been treated. The book shows a historic view of the issue, but it is a problem that persists to this day. Pineda and his mother do not speak Spanish in public. He his mom and his friend Ernesto are all known by anglicised names instead of their actual ones. They try to blend in. This is one of the reasons that Pineda can empathise with the alien. Parents and teachers can use the book to launch important discussions with children. They can find a video of author Adrianna Cuevas explaining the historical background of the novel as well as an extensive teacher guide on the author's website: https://www.adriannacuevas.com/teache...
I alternated between the ebook and the audiobook and this is one of the few books that I can honestly claim is "better as an audiobook." Many audiobooks have one narrator but since most of the book alternates between the points of view of the two protagonists, each has a seperate narrator and they did a fantastic job. However the last several chapters of the book are each from the point of view of a different character. This Dreamcast audiobook is a full cast production with different actors for each of these chapters. This approach made the audiobook delightful. The only negative part of this edition is that it did not include the author's note that was at the end of the text version where she explained that the book was based on true events"- except for the aliens".
I accessed advanced digital editions of this book from the publisher, but my review is voluntary. I loved this book and recommend it to any middle grade science fiction fan.
At the height of the Cold War, thousands of soldiers fell from the sky and took over a small Texas town. The Aggressor Nation which liberated Texas was actually an army exercise in preparedness for a communist invasion. the townspeople played along with the scenario at first, but eventually they became embittered by the destructive army forces. Adrianna Cuevas wondered how people would have reacted if the soldiers weren't the only thing that fell from the sky. This great middle grade novel follows a sixth grade boy who discovers an alien girl hiding in his barn.
Cuevas has set the scene with a picturesque depiction of a small town in the early 1950's and populated it with a colorful collection of characters. The story alternates from the point of view of a half Cuban kid who tries to blend in and a frightened young girl who has been separated from her parents. Since Pineda can't replicate the sounds of her language, he names her Louisa and promises to help her find her parents. When it becomes evident that the Louisa's parents have been captured by the military and that soldiers are actually on an alien hunt searching for her, the stakes become even higher. Pineda can't save the visitors alone, and soon enlists the help of his friends, a black soldier in a newly integrated army, and eventually the disgruntled townspeople. The friends consist of a diverse group of characters and the story is reminiscent of "The Goonies" in that respect. The adults in this story are also well fleshed out and entertaining. This fast paced story was an engrossing read that I could not put down.
One of the things that makes this story fantastic is that it explores how people who are different have always been treated. The book shows a historic view of the issue, but it is a problem that persists to this day. Pineda and his mother do not speak Spanish in public. He his mom and his friend Ernesto are all known by anglicised names instead of their actual ones. They try to blend in. This is one of the reasons that Pineda can empathise with the alien. Parents and teachers can use the book to launch important discussions with children. They can find a video of author Adrianna Cuevas explaining the historical background of the novel as well as an extensive teacher guide on the author's website: https://www.adriannacuevas.com/teache...
I alternated between the ebook and the audiobook and this is one of the few books that I can honestly claim is "better as an audiobook." Many audiobooks have one narrator but since most of the book alternates between the points of view of the two protagonists, each has a seperate narrator and they did a fantastic job. However the last several chapters of the book are each from the point of view of a different character. This Dreamcast audiobook is a full cast production with different actors for each of these chapters. This approach made the audiobook delightful. The only negative part of this edition is that it did not include the author's note that was at the end of the text version where she explained that the book was based on true events"- except for the aliens".
I accessed advanced digital editions of this book from the publisher, but my review is voluntary. I loved this book and recommend it to any middle grade science fiction fan.
February 25, 2025
This has Newbery potential—let’s break it down.
—Fast pace
—Mostly original premise (sci-fi + historical fiction all-in-one!)
—Mind-numbing stream of consciousness (do we need an entire paragraph about eating a saltine?)
—Laudable, yet unoriginal themes presented so conspicuously that we are constantly tripping over them (belonging, identity, prejudice, immigration, assimilation, etc.)
—Simple vocabulary and sentence structure, but at least it’s prose
Any suspense in the plot is diminished by the ad nauseam delivery of the messages; in fact, it seemed to get more and more relentless as the novel went on. Furthermore, being semi-historical fiction increased the challenge for the author to secure a reader’s suspension of disbelief; I could only disbelieve because I was so frequently reminded of what the author REALLY wanted me to believe.
Also worth noting, politically, this won’t win any fans on one side, based on the “aliens are people too” message. An alien girl is “detained” (after accidentally landing Texas) and separated from her parents. It was not subtle. And whether you agree or disagree, the heavy-handedness got old.
I said Newbery potential, not worthiness. If this doesn’t win (or receive an honor), it’s probably because it’s so similar to The First State of Being. Regardless, I don’t plan on recommending it for my kids to read.
—Fast pace
—Mostly original premise (sci-fi + historical fiction all-in-one!)
—Mind-numbing stream of consciousness (do we need an entire paragraph about eating a saltine?)
—Laudable, yet unoriginal themes presented so conspicuously that we are constantly tripping over them (belonging, identity, prejudice, immigration, assimilation, etc.)
—Simple vocabulary and sentence structure, but at least it’s prose
Any suspense in the plot is diminished by the ad nauseam delivery of the messages; in fact, it seemed to get more and more relentless as the novel went on. Furthermore, being semi-historical fiction increased the challenge for the author to secure a reader’s suspension of disbelief; I could only disbelieve because I was so frequently reminded of what the author REALLY wanted me to believe.
Also worth noting, politically, this won’t win any fans on one side, based on the “aliens are people too” message. An alien girl is “detained” (after accidentally landing Texas) and separated from her parents. It was not subtle. And whether you agree or disagree, the heavy-handedness got old.
I said Newbery potential, not worthiness. If this doesn’t win (or receive an honor), it’s probably because it’s so similar to The First State of Being. Regardless, I don’t plan on recommending it for my kids to read.
April 15, 2025
First and foremost, this is a STORY. A GREAT story about kids, friends, and adventure. But it’s also about belonging, being scared of those with power when you yourself feel less than powerful, how we perceive those around us, what it is to be a friend, tolerance and acceptance of others, and the importance of stepping up and helping vs hiding or stepping back when you’re afraid to speak out - all in a fast-paced and super-unique adventure. So much to love!
March 24, 2025
Incredible story! Historical/sci-fi fiction about a Texas town simultaneously experiencing an alien visit along with an army invasion. The parallels to today just frankly suck. It’s kind of terrifying actually.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2025
This middle grade book loving girl was seriously overjoyed listening to this. What a spectacular story told in such a gentle & charming way.
Pineda is a cuban american boy living in a rural town in texas during the cold war. When a military operation blows into town, mimicking a communist military take over, Pineda & his friends have to learn to cope with new rules & and a new way of life. But that isn’t the only out of the ordinary occurrence. Pineda happens upon an alien girl in his family’s barn who crashed here & lost her parents. With the help of his friends, Pineda embarks on a quest to keep his new friend safe from the military surrounding them & reunite her with her family.
This was an incredible work of sci-if mixed with historical fiction. I had never heard of Operation Long Horn before & was so interested to look into more on my own. The idea of wrapping together the red scare with aliens & the fear of the other is, of course, a perfect metaphor. Combined with Pineda & his own struggle as a half cuban boy living in Texas in the 50s, this was an enchanting story about unity & the importance of loving all of our neighbors (even the outer space ones) as ourselves.
This was such a reminder for me of why I love middle grade fiction so much. There’s always such wonderful lessons and stories, told with the wit, humor & language that is accessible even to children. Was absolutely enamored with this read & hope it gets the love it absolutely deserves!
Thank you so much to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for this ARC!
Pineda is a cuban american boy living in a rural town in texas during the cold war. When a military operation blows into town, mimicking a communist military take over, Pineda & his friends have to learn to cope with new rules & and a new way of life. But that isn’t the only out of the ordinary occurrence. Pineda happens upon an alien girl in his family’s barn who crashed here & lost her parents. With the help of his friends, Pineda embarks on a quest to keep his new friend safe from the military surrounding them & reunite her with her family.
This was an incredible work of sci-if mixed with historical fiction. I had never heard of Operation Long Horn before & was so interested to look into more on my own. The idea of wrapping together the red scare with aliens & the fear of the other is, of course, a perfect metaphor. Combined with Pineda & his own struggle as a half cuban boy living in Texas in the 50s, this was an enchanting story about unity & the importance of loving all of our neighbors (even the outer space ones) as ourselves.
This was such a reminder for me of why I love middle grade fiction so much. There’s always such wonderful lessons and stories, told with the wit, humor & language that is accessible even to children. Was absolutely enamored with this read & hope it gets the love it absolutely deserves!
Thank you so much to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for this ARC!
March 23, 2025
I love a good genre-smashing story, and Adrianna Cuevas has blown it out of the park with What Fell From the Sky! This historical-scifi-mystery is full of humor and heart as well, which requires an author with an awful lot of humor and heart herself.
It is 1952, and in the small town of Lariat, Texas, Pineda and his friends are shocked when soldiers parachute into the middle of their town and take it over under the flag of a "new government." Pineda then discovers that something else - or someone else - has fallen from the sky and is hiding in his barn - an alien girl who has been separated from her parents! Pineda and his friends work to help her under the nose of the soldiers, who seem to have mysterious motives. I loved the characters, the hijinks, the small town community, and the message in this story about what it means to be a good neighbor.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy. I know many young readers here in Texas will love this unusual and delightful story!
It is 1952, and in the small town of Lariat, Texas, Pineda and his friends are shocked when soldiers parachute into the middle of their town and take it over under the flag of a "new government." Pineda then discovers that something else - or someone else - has fallen from the sky and is hiding in his barn - an alien girl who has been separated from her parents! Pineda and his friends work to help her under the nose of the soldiers, who seem to have mysterious motives. I loved the characters, the hijinks, the small town community, and the message in this story about what it means to be a good neighbor.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy. I know many young readers here in Texas will love this unusual and delightful story!
October 16, 2025
A must-read for anyone rightfully horrified by what America is doing to its immigrant population (or anyone who looks "Un-American".
August 14, 2025
All Pineda Matlage wants is to coast through the school year with a few legendary pranks. But when U.S. soldiers flood his small Texas town, everything changes. Hidden in his family’s barn is a secret the military is desperate to find—a lost alien searching for her parents. With checkpoints on every road, Pineda must team up with friends, unlikely allies, and his entire town to outwit the army and pull off the ultimate rescue mission.
Adrianna Cuevas delivers a wild, heartfelt middle grade adventure bursting with friendship, mystery, and danger. Fans of Stranger Things, The Goonies, Back to the Future, and E.T. will love this fast-paced tale of kids taking on impossible odds—while tackling big ideas about belonging, courage, and embracing our differences. At its heart, it’s a story about standing up when it’s easier to hide, and remembering that what makes us different is exactly what makes us strong. Everytime I read one of her books, I end up crying! They are so touching and pack an emotional punch.
Adrianna Cuevas delivers a wild, heartfelt middle grade adventure bursting with friendship, mystery, and danger. Fans of Stranger Things, The Goonies, Back to the Future, and E.T. will love this fast-paced tale of kids taking on impossible odds—while tackling big ideas about belonging, courage, and embracing our differences. At its heart, it’s a story about standing up when it’s easier to hide, and remembering that what makes us different is exactly what makes us strong. Everytime I read one of her books, I end up crying! They are so touching and pack an emotional punch.
April 11, 2025
Cute little book best for 3-5 grade, I'd say, although the main characters are 6th graders. Takes place in Texas during the Cold War, but that's not actually going to impact a young reader at all. It's mainly a book about racism and diversity and will open a window to discuss the issue for anyone not easily able to approach it head on.
October 21, 2025
A fine scifi/historic fiction book for kids, but I really wish there’d been some kind of author’s note included in the audiobook that explained the historic events that inspired the book. If you’re going to have the book blurb say it was inspired by historic events I want to know what the actual event was!
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July 17, 2024Got to read this one early (and blurb it)! Bigger review closer to pub date, but for now put it on your radar! I loved it <3
August 26, 2025
The one thing I can say about this book is that I am sad it is over and desperately want a sequel.
The story flies by and you barely bump up against the changes in point of view. It explores and connects so many rich themes, and dips into history in a way that brings it to life anew.
Also, the audio book is full cast and they did a rock star job at making it feel like a movie playing in front of you.
The story flies by and you barely bump up against the changes in point of view. It explores and connects so many rich themes, and dips into history in a way that brings it to life anew.
Also, the audio book is full cast and they did a rock star job at making it feel like a movie playing in front of you.
August 9, 2025
I would give this book 3.5 stars. I personally liked that the story was less about the sci-fi elements, but I can see how to other readers that would be underdeveloped. I liked the audiobook performance, but I did struggle to get to the end because it felt slow in the middle.
I loved the different perspectives near the end as the community came together. I found this part to be very moving, but im not sure if children would respond the same way. Overall, I wish there was more development about the town and characters... Patsy got a little redemption near the end that made her more complex than just the positive girl.
A lot of people thought this book was heavy-handed, and of all the super didactic childrens books I've read, I would like to push back against that. I find that element of stories to be really visceral, and I just didn't get that feeling from this book. More so, I think that this book blends historical fiction, sci-fi, and ~current realities~. Books do that. I dont think simply including the idea "girl detained and separated from her parents" makes this book heavy-handed.
I loved the different perspectives near the end as the community came together. I found this part to be very moving, but im not sure if children would respond the same way. Overall, I wish there was more development about the town and characters... Patsy got a little redemption near the end that made her more complex than just the positive girl.
A lot of people thought this book was heavy-handed, and of all the super didactic childrens books I've read, I would like to push back against that. I find that element of stories to be really visceral, and I just didn't get that feeling from this book. More so, I think that this book blends historical fiction, sci-fi, and ~current realities~. Books do that. I dont think simply including the idea "girl detained and separated from her parents" makes this book heavy-handed.
January 28, 2025
I absolutely loved this book!! What a great way for young readers to learn a bit of history in a unique way. While the books is fiction it is based in real events and apparently in the print copy of the book the author shares what the true events are. Unfortunately that part was not included in the audiobook.
The story has so much heart to it and is very apropos for todays going’s on in the US as the reader can compare the literal alien who is hiding from the authorities to undocumented individuals being rounded up up for no reason.
I liked how the author used the alphabet in the “strange creatures” learning of English as she is from another planet.
It’s a heartwarming and important story that I think middle grade readers with love. It’s also a great book to read/play aloud on a school setting as it is a perfect discussion book.
The audiobook is a multi narrator cast who all
Do a great job and speak at a typical pace. While I did speak it up, it wasn’t needed to make it listenable like so many others I’ve consumed lately.
I am thankful to have gotten the ALC for free from Dreamscape Media through Netgalley and so I can leave my voluntary review.
My rating system for Middle Grade and children’s books
⭐️ Significant problems and would never recommend to the audience.
⭐️⭐️ Had a lot of trouble, prose issues, really not my cup of tea but may have some appeal.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ an ok book which I wouldn’t go out of my way to recommend but it has some value for young readers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Really enjoyed it! I would recommend for the age or reading level appropriate for the book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Outstanding! Would recommend highly, especially to school programs as a wide spread reading opportunity.
The story has so much heart to it and is very apropos for todays going’s on in the US as the reader can compare the literal alien who is hiding from the authorities to undocumented individuals being rounded up up for no reason.
I liked how the author used the alphabet in the “strange creatures” learning of English as she is from another planet.
It’s a heartwarming and important story that I think middle grade readers with love. It’s also a great book to read/play aloud on a school setting as it is a perfect discussion book.
The audiobook is a multi narrator cast who all
Do a great job and speak at a typical pace. While I did speak it up, it wasn’t needed to make it listenable like so many others I’ve consumed lately.
I am thankful to have gotten the ALC for free from Dreamscape Media through Netgalley and so I can leave my voluntary review.
My rating system for Middle Grade and children’s books
⭐️ Significant problems and would never recommend to the audience.
⭐️⭐️ Had a lot of trouble, prose issues, really not my cup of tea but may have some appeal.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ an ok book which I wouldn’t go out of my way to recommend but it has some value for young readers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Really enjoyed it! I would recommend for the age or reading level appropriate for the book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Outstanding! Would recommend highly, especially to school programs as a wide spread reading opportunity.
May 5, 2025
The publisher provided an audiobook of this title through NetGalley. The opinions are my own.
Sixth graders, Pineda, Ernesto, and Patsy are attending school in Soledad, Texas when soldiers parachute into town. Rounded up by the paratroopers, everyone is instructed in the rules they must obey while the Aggressors hold the town captive. With school canceled, Pineda and his friends wander home. While doing his chores, Pineda finds a strange humanoid in his barn. Could she be who the soldiers are really looking for?
This is a book about belonging, compassion, and diversity. Pineda has also been ignored and avoided because his mother is Mexican. He understands what it is like to be different like Luisa, the alien he finds in his barn. Using an alphabet book, he bridges the language gap between races: C is for Caring, F is for friend. Pineda rallies his friends and their families to save Luisa, and they prove that messing with Texans means you lose – badly.
I reviewed the audiobook, and the numerous narrators make it a joy to listen to. If you have a reluctant reader, I highly recommend it. The voices bring the characters to life!
The historical background that sparked the author’s book is described below. Copy and paste the link in your browser for more information.
How One Texas Town Fell To Communist Rule In The 1950s | Texas Standard
On April 3,1952 the U.S. military staged a “communist take-over” in Lampasas, Texas. Named the Aggressor Nation, the group took over the schools, courthouse, and places of worship. Residents were under Martial Law until “freed” by the U.S. Army two weeks later. The action left the residents resentful of the Army and the government.
January 28, 2025
What Fell from the Sky is a heartwarming but fun romp of an adventure, that takes place during the 50s atomic scare and UFO craze. his nostalgic backdrop not only provides a fresh perspective but also highlights how, unfortunately, certain aspects of society have not changed enough.
A rural small-town is the perfect setting for this tale of military overreach, and search for belonging, which will take Pineda and his friends on a journey of self-discovery, facing questions about identity, how they are perceived by others, and how they in turn view people around them, including their peculiar neighbor who stands out in the rigid social fabric.
To help their new friend they will have to face the invading forces upending their town, and the daunting question of what home really is, and if you can keep a piece of it with you wherever you are, instead of being forced to leave everything behind.
The initial chapters are a bit slower, but the story gains momentum as the action kicks in, delivering fast-paced sequences where most tense situations are played for laughs. It manages to read more like a whimsical adventure than a heavy-handed moral tale, even as it makes clear points about acceptance and community..
If you're in the mood for a tale filled with deep friendships, daring escapes fueled by pranks, baked goods, and secret evil plots that beg to be thwarted—all wrapped in a warm message of acceptance and celebration—this book is definitely for you!
A rural small-town is the perfect setting for this tale of military overreach, and search for belonging, which will take Pineda and his friends on a journey of self-discovery, facing questions about identity, how they are perceived by others, and how they in turn view people around them, including their peculiar neighbor who stands out in the rigid social fabric.
To help their new friend they will have to face the invading forces upending their town, and the daunting question of what home really is, and if you can keep a piece of it with you wherever you are, instead of being forced to leave everything behind.
The initial chapters are a bit slower, but the story gains momentum as the action kicks in, delivering fast-paced sequences where most tense situations are played for laughs. It manages to read more like a whimsical adventure than a heavy-handed moral tale, even as it makes clear points about acceptance and community..
If you're in the mood for a tale filled with deep friendships, daring escapes fueled by pranks, baked goods, and secret evil plots that beg to be thwarted—all wrapped in a warm message of acceptance and celebration—this book is definitely for you!
February 28, 2025
Every middle grade kid needs to read this, every human being needs to read this! This should be read to all 5th graders, at minimum.
This is a middle grade crossover genre of historical fiction and sci-fi. A military operation takes over a Texas town, but quickly things go south as a 12yo boy realizes that the military isn’t all that fell from the sky. An alien girl and her parents also came to Earth at the same time and got separated after they arrive. Our main character, Pineda, and his friends help the alien girl, Louisa, reunite with her family and break down fear of “different”.
What I loved about this book:
1. It displays true kindness in people, which is needed in society
2. The story is fast paced and exciting, never boring
3. There’s an emphasis on putting others before yourself
4. Highlights racial tensions that continue to exist today, helping people see the silliness of treating anyone differently just because of how they look
5. Biblical principle to love our neighbor seems to be a central theme, although not overtly spiritual
I highly recommend for everyone. I suggest ages 8+. There are scenes of military officers with guns that could be frightening to smaller children. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
This is a review of the audiobook.
This is a middle grade crossover genre of historical fiction and sci-fi. A military operation takes over a Texas town, but quickly things go south as a 12yo boy realizes that the military isn’t all that fell from the sky. An alien girl and her parents also came to Earth at the same time and got separated after they arrive. Our main character, Pineda, and his friends help the alien girl, Louisa, reunite with her family and break down fear of “different”.
What I loved about this book:
1. It displays true kindness in people, which is needed in society
2. The story is fast paced and exciting, never boring
3. There’s an emphasis on putting others before yourself
4. Highlights racial tensions that continue to exist today, helping people see the silliness of treating anyone differently just because of how they look
5. Biblical principle to love our neighbor seems to be a central theme, although not overtly spiritual
I highly recommend for everyone. I suggest ages 8+. There are scenes of military officers with guns that could be frightening to smaller children. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
This is a review of the audiobook.
February 11, 2025
The story opens with middle school students, Pineda and Ernesto, in the middle of a duck and cover drill at school, which immediately sets the scene. The story keeps moving with military troops parachuting in and taking over their small town. We later learn this is an exercise by the United States government (and is based on true events!), but since the kids don't know this at the time, it really creates a lot of great drama and tension that is multiplied when Pineda discovers the troops weren't the only thing that fell from the sky.
However, once the initial excitement is over, I felt the story dragged with a lot of repetitive action (going to and from town) and dialogue (holy baloney!). It took me longer to get through this book than most because of the pace.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed the dual POV, alternating between Pineda and the girl from outer space, the fact that it has roots in a historical event, and the parallels it draws with events taking place right now. I feel like kids will really identify with the characters, and it will be a great book to use to open dialogue with students about both historical and current events.
However, once the initial excitement is over, I felt the story dragged with a lot of repetitive action (going to and from town) and dialogue (holy baloney!). It took me longer to get through this book than most because of the pace.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed the dual POV, alternating between Pineda and the girl from outer space, the fact that it has roots in a historical event, and the parallels it draws with events taking place right now. I feel like kids will really identify with the characters, and it will be a great book to use to open dialogue with students about both historical and current events.
April 18, 2025
5 stars. Delightful sci fi/historical fic for MG, extra love for the Texas setting!
Random notes:
March 28, 1952
Pineda and classmates doing duck and cover exercise at school - he doesn’t think some country across the world will drop bomb on small Texas town of Soledad
during Korean War
Dad American, mom Cuban, have pecan farm
What is the newcomer? Alien, well described
Because being different is never good.
It’s not fair that we have to give up a part of who we are because people can’t be bothered to say or names correctly
Love the alternate pov at beginning when Pineda thinks she understands Texas because, duh, who doesn’t, and then she says she has no idea what he is talking about. Love Luisa’s reactions, almost snarky
I don’t think she’s from Soledad - lol
Soledad has military invasion
Tongue in cheek humor
When in doubt go to the library
Mami doesn’t have enough chanclas to throw for that
Junior’s mom’s rhubarb pie!
Love the alphabet references as Luisa learns English
Rooting for anybody but the Yankees!
Military invasion based on actual events in Lampasas, Tx except for aliens part
BTS and Florida Panthers in acknowledgment section
Random notes:
March 28, 1952
Pineda and classmates doing duck and cover exercise at school - he doesn’t think some country across the world will drop bomb on small Texas town of Soledad
during Korean War
Dad American, mom Cuban, have pecan farm
What is the newcomer? Alien, well described
Because being different is never good.
It’s not fair that we have to give up a part of who we are because people can’t be bothered to say or names correctly
Love the alternate pov at beginning when Pineda thinks she understands Texas because, duh, who doesn’t, and then she says she has no idea what he is talking about. Love Luisa’s reactions, almost snarky
I don’t think she’s from Soledad - lol
Soledad has military invasion
Tongue in cheek humor
When in doubt go to the library
Mami doesn’t have enough chanclas to throw for that
Junior’s mom’s rhubarb pie!
Love the alphabet references as Luisa learns English
Rooting for anybody but the Yankees!
Military invasion based on actual events in Lampasas, Tx except for aliens part
BTS and Florida Panthers in acknowledgment section
August 4, 2025
WHAT FELL FROM THE SKY is a historical fiction set in 1950's Texas (based on real events!) and has something for everyone: aliens and space travel, small-town community values, lessons of inclusivity and empathy towards foreigners, and kids generally running amok and causing mayhem in defense of their new extra-terrestrial friend.
I loved it!
I loved it!
March 3, 2025
It's not often my students find a historical sci-fi mystery in our classroom library, but this one would fit in all 3 genres. First the military fall from the sky in 1952 rural Texas, but then Pineda discovers the alien who fell from the sky hiding in his barn. Pineda and his friends quickly come to see "Luisa" as a friend who just needs to be reunited with her parents, humanizing her much more than the US military ever does, with the exception of one Black corporal.
My students will enjoy this hide-and-seek adventure, but my adult brain was too distracted by all the disbelief that had to be suspended, especially as 21st ideals were placed on the 1952 setting. I was also hoping for an author's note at the end explaining just how much was inspired by history since we never find out what true historical events this tale was based on. Thanks to Libro.fm for the Educator ALC.
My students will enjoy this hide-and-seek adventure, but my adult brain was too distracted by all the disbelief that had to be suspended, especially as 21st ideals were placed on the 1952 setting. I was also hoping for an author's note at the end explaining just how much was inspired by history since we never find out what true historical events this tale was based on. Thanks to Libro.fm for the Educator ALC.
June 18, 2025
I have enjoyed every single book that I have read from Cuevas and this one is no exception. I absolutely loved how Cuevas took the science fiction aspect and wove it into her typical historical fiction. She continues to include Latine (specifically Cuban) representation in her works while, in this book, expanding that representation to include African American in post-integration troops as well as literal aliens all of which to challenge the idea of people disliking/hating someone just because that person looks different than them. I really liked how she used the idea of a war exercise which many people during the Red Scare years might have easily gone along with until it started affecting them as most of the town does in this story until things start affecting them in ways that they did not expect. I highly recommend this book.
January 8, 2025
WHAT FELL FROM THE SKY is a Goonies x E.T. x The Skeleton Crew sci-fi adventure story. If you're looking for a ripped from the headlines adventure for your students and want to discuss military occupation on American soil, it's a great discussion starter. The story captures imagination through the unbelievable (yet true!) story of military exercises done in small towns in Texas and Louisiana to the detriment of local farmers and townspeople. The story is about several kids who are somewhat outsiders for various reasons who discover an unintended visitor to the small town of Soledad, TX in the 1950s. What follows is their attempt at saving their new friend from the military-gone-cuckoo. Lots of shenanigans. Lots of silly slapstick action. Aliens. Guns. Empathy. Hope.
February 21, 2025
Pros:
I think this was a beautiful story perfect to be shared now. It was a great way to explore themes of morality and friendship.
This looks at race through several lens including a black soldier, Cuban-American families and space aliens. The discussion on fear of looking different or sounding different is easy to understand and explained in a way that allows you to feel it if you’ve ever been considered different. I especially liked how it was pointed out that people will use nicknames rather than learning to say something unfamiliar.
Cons:
It may be hard for some people to see characters mistreated, unfortunately it is a sad reality. The fact that it is hard is why it matters and needs to be shared.
I think this was a beautiful story perfect to be shared now. It was a great way to explore themes of morality and friendship.
This looks at race through several lens including a black soldier, Cuban-American families and space aliens. The discussion on fear of looking different or sounding different is easy to understand and explained in a way that allows you to feel it if you’ve ever been considered different. I especially liked how it was pointed out that people will use nicknames rather than learning to say something unfamiliar.
Cons:
It may be hard for some people to see characters mistreated, unfortunately it is a sad reality. The fact that it is hard is why it matters and needs to be shared.
March 9, 2025
It’s the 1950’s, and the town of Soledad, Texas has been chosen to be used for a war exercise, that simulates a Communist takeover. Soldiers have parachuted into town and established Marshall law. They have set up checkpoints and have taken over the town government, closed the school and established a curfew. Pineda finds a mysterious person hiding in his barn. She has gotten separated from her parents and Pineda and his friends set out to outwit the soldiers and help his new friend rejoin her parents. Meanwhile the US soldiers have arrived and are participating in the exercise to rid the town of the “communists,” but after catching the alien’s parents who fell from the sky, they want to capture her too and do experiments on the them and find their “spaceship.”
#ARC #netgalley
#ARC #netgalley
March 19, 2025
What Fell From the Sky delivers on what it promises us in the blurb: a fast-paced yet thoughtful historical sci-fi story, based more inside of history than outside of it. I do love when a story gives us something truly out-of-this-world fictional alongside the very believable and not always pretty.
The multiple POV chapters gave me nice glimpses into the minds of the two main characters, and then also into side characters. Old Lady Kolachek is a hoot. I think this story is important and valuable!
The multiple POV chapters gave me nice glimpses into the minds of the two main characters, and then also into side characters. Old Lady Kolachek is a hoot. I think this story is important and valuable!
February 9, 2025
This was a fun historical scifi, a bit different from what Adrianna Cuevas has written in the past. There is a very obvious theme on accepting people for their differences and the racism is bad.
This is supposed to be based on something that actually happened (I'm assuming the part about the military taking over a town, not the alien). The audiobook had nothing about that so I hope the physical copy does.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced audio copy.
This is supposed to be based on something that actually happened (I'm assuming the part about the military taking over a town, not the alien). The audiobook had nothing about that so I hope the physical copy does.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced audio copy.
March 15, 2025
Holy baloney! Middle grade readers will enjoy the adventures of Pineda and his alien friend, Louisa, in this genre-blended book. It gets especially exciting near the end when they are being pursued by the military. The book displays the characteristics of a caring and supportive community. I would recommend this book to students in 3rd grade and up who enjoy Science Fiction as well as war/military stories.
April 26, 2025
I wasn’t expecting this book AT ALL. Set in the Cold War era in Texas, the author provides a completely unique set of characters, and a situation that is nearly out of this world. Told from the perspective of a young boy and an alien (yep) who is separated from her parents upon landing on Earth (exploration, not invasion), this story looks at much more than the run of the mill alien story; it explores how we treat others who are different.
April 28, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC of this audiobook for my honest review
I think this is a great and enjoyable way to teach people in easy ways about racism. It was fun and emotional and simple yet descriptive. I think that it would teach a lot of kids because it’s still really enjoyable to read and I’d recommend it. However it is simple for any adults so if you’re into children’s books go for it but otherwise recommend it to your kid if you have one maybe ahha.
I think this is a great and enjoyable way to teach people in easy ways about racism. It was fun and emotional and simple yet descriptive. I think that it would teach a lot of kids because it’s still really enjoyable to read and I’d recommend it. However it is simple for any adults so if you’re into children’s books go for it but otherwise recommend it to your kid if you have one maybe ahha.
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