What do you think?
Rate this book
I Know What UFO Did Last Summer
The alien invasion is upon us! At least, that’s what twelve-year-old Marv thinks when a mysterious craft appears in the woods behind his house. If there’s one thing he’s learned from his trusty alien invasion guidebook, it’s that ETs are just as likely to land in your backyard as they are on the front lawn of the White House.
A plot to take over the planet is the only logical explanation for what’s going on. Why else would a suited pilot chase Marv and his friends through the woods? What else could explain the creepy leech-like creatures attached to the hull of the ship? As if that wasn’t enough, the recently moved-in next-door neighbor girl and her dad seem to be directly connected to the alien conspiracy.
The National Guard won’t take his calls seriously. His family thinks he’s making everything up. Marv and his friends are on their own if they want to stop the invaders from Pluto—unless that mysterious red pickup truck that keeps driving by is somehow involved in all this, too.
But Marv is wrong. The threat is real, but the aliens aren’t. And getting mixed up with the wrong people might still result in an abduction…
A plot to take over the planet is the only logical explanation for what’s going on. Why else would a suited pilot chase Marv and his friends through the woods? What else could explain the creepy leech-like creatures attached to the hull of the ship? As if that wasn’t enough, the recently moved-in next-door neighbor girl and her dad seem to be directly connected to the alien conspiracy.
The National Guard won’t take his calls seriously. His family thinks he’s making everything up. Marv and his friends are on their own if they want to stop the invaders from Pluto—unless that mysterious red pickup truck that keeps driving by is somehow involved in all this, too.
But Marv is wrong. The threat is real, but the aliens aren’t. And getting mixed up with the wrong people might still result in an abduction…
210 pages, Hardcover
Published March 11, 2025
4 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Garone
2 books6 followersKevin Garone is the author of I Know What UFO Did Last Summer and Night of the Living Toilet Paper. He lives with his wife and sons in Arizona, and is a graduate of Brigham Young University. When he’s not writing, you’ll probably find him reading, playing video games, hiking, or cheering on his favorite sports teams.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 27, 2024
note: I received an advance copy, and so on, and so forth. God I hate writing these stupid disclaimers!
Part adventure, part sci-fi, and all child-like charm, this is for young readers, but perfect for the young at heart adults. With its irresistible characters, it’s a reminder of a time when you were young and could believe in anything with all your heart, no matter how outlandish it might have been. Simply put, this is magic.
It’s the three pre-teen lead characters, Marvin (code name: Gold Leader), Jace (code name: Baller One) and Nora (code name: Space Cadet) that make the story such a joy. The author clearly knows kids and how to write them, his insights are so good you’ll wonder if the book was written by a teen with advanced writing skills. The main character, Marvin, is the overall focus. He truly believes aliens will one day infiltrate the earth, and spends his spare time searching and preparing for them, along with his less enthusiastic cohorts. Jace and Nora don’t really buy into Marvin’s obsession, but searching the night sky for flying saucers during campouts and building an anti-UFO catapult is fun for them. And, that’s what buddies do: go along with the ideas of each other, in the name of friendship.
Things change when the three of them do find something unusual in the woods that isn’t actual aliens, but…it does somewhat fit into Marvin’s beliefs. The author wisely doesn’t hide the fact that it isn’t an extraterrestrial invasion, but he has Marvin play his role to the end, and that’s where a lot of the story’s charm comes from. It’s hilarious when adults in the book occasionally ask ‘what’s wrong with this kid?’ when Marvin accuses them of being from another planet. The answer is, nothing is wrong with him. He isn’t written as crazy or stupid, but a kid who believes, whole-heartedly, in aliens coming to earth. It makes the character interactions between the three leads more powerful than a laser bolt from Han Solo’s blaster, as Jace and Nora are perfect foils to Marvin. Jace has fun with the whole alien thing but would rather play basketball, and Nora is new and town and just needs a friend.
The storyline is quite good, call it sci-fi light. There are a few weird creatures and a bit of teleporting, plus, of course, an EEEEVIL mastermind behind it all. Somewhat stock elements, but used extremely well. A few characters do get chomped by…something, but nothing messy. This book is perfect for grades four through seven, roughly. (I’m basing that on my teaching experience)
However, since this review is mainly for adults, the overall gist is this is perfect for adults that haven’t let the world dampen the joy of imagination. It’s a good reminder that magic of a sort does exist, if you still believe. Often, that magic is found in the friendships you make, as the book's characters discover during their adventure. Definitely worth the read!
This actually would have made a great Disney Sunday night movie in the 80s. Too bad all they do know are bloated CGI comic book fiascos and politically correct remakes of their animated classics. What a shame. The world changed, and they made the mistake of changing with it.
Part adventure, part sci-fi, and all child-like charm, this is for young readers, but perfect for the young at heart adults. With its irresistible characters, it’s a reminder of a time when you were young and could believe in anything with all your heart, no matter how outlandish it might have been. Simply put, this is magic.
It’s the three pre-teen lead characters, Marvin (code name: Gold Leader), Jace (code name: Baller One) and Nora (code name: Space Cadet) that make the story such a joy. The author clearly knows kids and how to write them, his insights are so good you’ll wonder if the book was written by a teen with advanced writing skills. The main character, Marvin, is the overall focus. He truly believes aliens will one day infiltrate the earth, and spends his spare time searching and preparing for them, along with his less enthusiastic cohorts. Jace and Nora don’t really buy into Marvin’s obsession, but searching the night sky for flying saucers during campouts and building an anti-UFO catapult is fun for them. And, that’s what buddies do: go along with the ideas of each other, in the name of friendship.
Things change when the three of them do find something unusual in the woods that isn’t actual aliens, but…it does somewhat fit into Marvin’s beliefs. The author wisely doesn’t hide the fact that it isn’t an extraterrestrial invasion, but he has Marvin play his role to the end, and that’s where a lot of the story’s charm comes from. It’s hilarious when adults in the book occasionally ask ‘what’s wrong with this kid?’ when Marvin accuses them of being from another planet. The answer is, nothing is wrong with him. He isn’t written as crazy or stupid, but a kid who believes, whole-heartedly, in aliens coming to earth. It makes the character interactions between the three leads more powerful than a laser bolt from Han Solo’s blaster, as Jace and Nora are perfect foils to Marvin. Jace has fun with the whole alien thing but would rather play basketball, and Nora is new and town and just needs a friend.
The storyline is quite good, call it sci-fi light. There are a few weird creatures and a bit of teleporting, plus, of course, an EEEEVIL mastermind behind it all. Somewhat stock elements, but used extremely well. A few characters do get chomped by…something, but nothing messy. This book is perfect for grades four through seven, roughly. (I’m basing that on my teaching experience)
However, since this review is mainly for adults, the overall gist is this is perfect for adults that haven’t let the world dampen the joy of imagination. It’s a good reminder that magic of a sort does exist, if you still believe. Often, that magic is found in the friendships you make, as the book's characters discover during their adventure. Definitely worth the read!
This actually would have made a great Disney Sunday night movie in the 80s. Too bad all they do know are bloated CGI comic book fiascos and politically correct remakes of their animated classics. What a shame. The world changed, and they made the mistake of changing with it.
October 26, 2025
I picked this up after Kevin kindly reached out and offered me the chance to read books one and two in his series—and the minute I saw UFOs and middle grade, I was in! I’m so glad I jumped on board.
What I Loved:
This book grabbed me from the very first chapter, and the pacing is so fast that you don’t want to put it down. It’s a wild adventure with Marv and his friends—you never quite know where it’s going next. I loved the alien survival guide quotes and tips that opened each chapter, the solid worldbuilding, and the well-rounded cast of characters. This was a genuinely fun read for both adults and kids alike, and I can’t wait to dive into book two!
What I Didn’t Love:
At times, the wording felt a little “wordy” for a middle-grade audience. It didn’t detract from my enjoyment at all, but younger readers might need to reach for a dictionary here and there to catch some of the bigger vocabulary choices.
Rating:
4.5–5/5 stars. A funny, fast-paced alien adventure that’s as heartwarming as it is action-packed.
Recommendation:
I’d recommend this to anyone who enjoyed Resident Alien, Flight of the Navigator, or Close Encounters of the Third Kind, or anyone intrigued by aliens and fun sci-fi adventures.
One Compelling Sentence:
Fast-paced, laugh-out-loud alien adventure where Gold Leader faces off against sleechs, secrets, and summer vacation gone extra-terrestrial. 👽✨
Note for the Author:
Thank you, Kevin, for the invite to read your stories! I’m so glad you found your way into my inbox—I’ve loved every second of this adventure and can’t wait to dive into book two!
What I Loved:
This book grabbed me from the very first chapter, and the pacing is so fast that you don’t want to put it down. It’s a wild adventure with Marv and his friends—you never quite know where it’s going next. I loved the alien survival guide quotes and tips that opened each chapter, the solid worldbuilding, and the well-rounded cast of characters. This was a genuinely fun read for both adults and kids alike, and I can’t wait to dive into book two!
What I Didn’t Love:
At times, the wording felt a little “wordy” for a middle-grade audience. It didn’t detract from my enjoyment at all, but younger readers might need to reach for a dictionary here and there to catch some of the bigger vocabulary choices.
Rating:
4.5–5/5 stars. A funny, fast-paced alien adventure that’s as heartwarming as it is action-packed.
Recommendation:
I’d recommend this to anyone who enjoyed Resident Alien, Flight of the Navigator, or Close Encounters of the Third Kind, or anyone intrigued by aliens and fun sci-fi adventures.
One Compelling Sentence:
Fast-paced, laugh-out-loud alien adventure where Gold Leader faces off against sleechs, secrets, and summer vacation gone extra-terrestrial. 👽✨
Note for the Author:
Thank you, Kevin, for the invite to read your stories! I’m so glad you found your way into my inbox—I’ve loved every second of this adventure and can’t wait to dive into book two!
February 18, 2025
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley.
What a well crafted story! I wish more kids out there would put down their phones and pick up a good adventure book like this one. There are so many fantastic stories out there that really lets the imagination run wild, and this story is one of them! The author has done a great job writing for the intended age group. It is fast paced, exciting, and has memorable characters. It is a very unique plot, with a little bit of sci-fi, bad guys, monsters, and plenty of alien references.
The story is told by Marvin, who is obsessed with UFOs. He always drags his friend Jace into his preparation for an impending alien invasion, and now he has a new next door neighbor to involve too. Her name is Nora, and although she really isn't into Marvin's whole UFO and alien obsession, she doesn't have any new friends yet and decides to follow along. But the three spot a flashing light in the woods, and suddenly, there really is something going on. It's not a UFO, but it's still something that may involve outer space. Throw some actual bad guys into the mix, and three discover they are in for more than they bargained for.
The narrator, Marvin, is hilarious. He tells the entire story as if there really is an alien invasion. The author lets you know through other characters' dialogue that it is not an actual UFO, Marvin sticks to his alien theories. He likes to use code names, referring to himself as "Gold Leader"; Jace loves basketball so he is "Baller One", and Nora is "Space Cadet." Because he is determined that aliens are among us, he is a bit of an unreliable narrator, but that's what makes it so funny.
Not to spoil anything, but there are monsters in the story that could potentially scare younger readers. The monsters make it quite interesting and I was flying through that part to find out what would happen next! Some monsters do "chomp" people, but I don't think it was too scary. I could actually see this being made into the next family action adventure film! It also ends on a cliffhanger, and judging by the title, we should be getting a sequel or an entire series from this story. I think it will be a big hit with kids! Especially those who are "reluctant readers". It's a quirky, exciting story. I definitely recommend that librarians and teachers purchase this one and add it to their collection! If there are any kids signed up for summer reading programs, and they can choose which titles they want, I recommend you give them this one!
What a well crafted story! I wish more kids out there would put down their phones and pick up a good adventure book like this one. There are so many fantastic stories out there that really lets the imagination run wild, and this story is one of them! The author has done a great job writing for the intended age group. It is fast paced, exciting, and has memorable characters. It is a very unique plot, with a little bit of sci-fi, bad guys, monsters, and plenty of alien references.
The story is told by Marvin, who is obsessed with UFOs. He always drags his friend Jace into his preparation for an impending alien invasion, and now he has a new next door neighbor to involve too. Her name is Nora, and although she really isn't into Marvin's whole UFO and alien obsession, she doesn't have any new friends yet and decides to follow along. But the three spot a flashing light in the woods, and suddenly, there really is something going on. It's not a UFO, but it's still something that may involve outer space. Throw some actual bad guys into the mix, and three discover they are in for more than they bargained for.
The narrator, Marvin, is hilarious. He tells the entire story as if there really is an alien invasion. The author lets you know through other characters' dialogue that it is not an actual UFO, Marvin sticks to his alien theories. He likes to use code names, referring to himself as "Gold Leader"; Jace loves basketball so he is "Baller One", and Nora is "Space Cadet." Because he is determined that aliens are among us, he is a bit of an unreliable narrator, but that's what makes it so funny.
Not to spoil anything, but there are monsters in the story that could potentially scare younger readers. The monsters make it quite interesting and I was flying through that part to find out what would happen next! Some monsters do "chomp" people, but I don't think it was too scary. I could actually see this being made into the next family action adventure film! It also ends on a cliffhanger, and judging by the title, we should be getting a sequel or an entire series from this story. I think it will be a big hit with kids! Especially those who are "reluctant readers". It's a quirky, exciting story. I definitely recommend that librarians and teachers purchase this one and add it to their collection! If there are any kids signed up for summer reading programs, and they can choose which titles they want, I recommend you give them this one!
March 26, 2025
This title was selected for IngramSpark's Indie Title Discovery Spotlight 2025!
February 25, 2025
What worked:
Having Marv tell the story is interesting because he’s convinced an alien invasion is imminent. In most books, characters who believe in conspiracies have minor roles while this book makes Marv the main focus. He calls himself Gold Leader, his best friend Jace is Baller One, and his new girl neighbor Nora is named Space Cadet. Marv lets an alien-invasion guidebook control his life and the book opens with an observation mission/campout atop an abandoned fire ranger tower. It’s strange to be inside Marv’s mind when he expects anything unusual to be a sign of an alien invasion. His wacky interpretations of everyday sights and events add amusement to the story. He’s frustrated when others don’t agree with his conclusions but he’s equally unwilling to consider he might be wrong.
Each chapter opens with an excerpt from How to Survive an Alien Invasion: Your Guidebook to an Inevitable Future. These lines are related to the events in their chapters without sounding overly serious. They cover how aliens might infiltrate society, the importance of monitoring the skies, what to do if you’re being chased by an alien, and the reluctance of the public and authorities to take action after you report a sighting. Don’t run into the streets yelling, “They’re here!” These excerpts offer consistency and cohesion to the overall story and temporary pauses in the non-stop action.
About a third of the way into the book, the plot takes a twist in whole new direction. Nora’s just moved to the area with her father and Marv finds all his electronic equipment suspicious. Nora’s the first one to notice a flashing light in the forest which leads Marv, Jace, and Nora to discover a large, cylindrical “spaceship” with an “alien” dressed in black suit wearing a helmet. Further snooping reveals Nora’s father is connected to this site and he’s keeping secret from his daughter. Then, Marv notices a red pickup truck slowly cruising the streets and wonders if it’s part of the alien sighting. He confronts the man and woman in the truck and is relieved to see their Department of Homeland Security badges. However, this moment is when the story heads in a new, unexpected direction.
What didn’t work as well:
There’s little character development as the story immediately jumps into Marv’s campout. Readers don’t know what made him so obsessed with the alien invasion that’s consumed his life. Amazingly, his character continues to speak of an alien invasion even after the plot takes its dramatic turn.
The final verdict:
This book will appeal to science fiction lovers who don’t mind a story that’s not overly serious (even though several characters perish). The second half of the book requires Marv and his friends to stop a potential threat to world peace. Overall, it’s a fun book and the resolution leaves readers with an unresolved question.
Having Marv tell the story is interesting because he’s convinced an alien invasion is imminent. In most books, characters who believe in conspiracies have minor roles while this book makes Marv the main focus. He calls himself Gold Leader, his best friend Jace is Baller One, and his new girl neighbor Nora is named Space Cadet. Marv lets an alien-invasion guidebook control his life and the book opens with an observation mission/campout atop an abandoned fire ranger tower. It’s strange to be inside Marv’s mind when he expects anything unusual to be a sign of an alien invasion. His wacky interpretations of everyday sights and events add amusement to the story. He’s frustrated when others don’t agree with his conclusions but he’s equally unwilling to consider he might be wrong.
Each chapter opens with an excerpt from How to Survive an Alien Invasion: Your Guidebook to an Inevitable Future. These lines are related to the events in their chapters without sounding overly serious. They cover how aliens might infiltrate society, the importance of monitoring the skies, what to do if you’re being chased by an alien, and the reluctance of the public and authorities to take action after you report a sighting. Don’t run into the streets yelling, “They’re here!” These excerpts offer consistency and cohesion to the overall story and temporary pauses in the non-stop action.
About a third of the way into the book, the plot takes a twist in whole new direction. Nora’s just moved to the area with her father and Marv finds all his electronic equipment suspicious. Nora’s the first one to notice a flashing light in the forest which leads Marv, Jace, and Nora to discover a large, cylindrical “spaceship” with an “alien” dressed in black suit wearing a helmet. Further snooping reveals Nora’s father is connected to this site and he’s keeping secret from his daughter. Then, Marv notices a red pickup truck slowly cruising the streets and wonders if it’s part of the alien sighting. He confronts the man and woman in the truck and is relieved to see their Department of Homeland Security badges. However, this moment is when the story heads in a new, unexpected direction.
What didn’t work as well:
There’s little character development as the story immediately jumps into Marv’s campout. Readers don’t know what made him so obsessed with the alien invasion that’s consumed his life. Amazingly, his character continues to speak of an alien invasion even after the plot takes its dramatic turn.
The final verdict:
This book will appeal to science fiction lovers who don’t mind a story that’s not overly serious (even though several characters perish). The second half of the book requires Marv and his friends to stop a potential threat to world peace. Overall, it’s a fun book and the resolution leaves readers with an unresolved question.
March 13, 2025
Title: I Know What UFO Did Last Summer (Alien Survival Guide)
By: Kevin Garone
Publisher: Temor Press
Release Date: March 11, 2025
Length: 208 pages
Triggers: Mild peril, some characters get “chomped” (but nothing too gnarly)
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Aliens? Conspiracy? Or Just One Kid’s Wild Imagination?
Alright, y’all, buckle up—this book is a straight-up blast! Imagine Stranger Things had a baby with The Last Kids on Earth, and that kid was raised on alien invasion movies and too many conspiracy theories. That’s I Know What UFO Did Last Summer in a nutshell.
Marv (aka Gold Leader) is your classic UFO-obsessed, tinfoil-hat-wearing kid who’s 100% convinced an alien invasion is about to go down in his backyard. His best bud Jace (Baller One) and new neighbor Nora (Space Cadet) aren’t exactly buying his little green men theories, but hey, they’re down for some nighttime adventures. And then—boom—things get weird. A mysterious craft. Creepy leech-like creatures. Shady government types. And a dude in a red pickup truck who’s giving off major X-Files energy.
The humor in this book is top-tier. Marv is the kind of unreliable narrator that keeps you cracking up, even when things start hitting the fan. The way he twists literally everything into proof of an alien takeover is hilarious. Like, my guy sees a blinking light and immediately jumps to, “Yup, the mothership has landed.” His conspiracy-laced inner monologue is straight comedy gold.
But it’s not just laughs—there’s plenty of action too. Short chapters make this a quick, addictive read, and when the danger ramps up, it’s edge-of-your-seat good. The How to Survive an Alien Invasion excerpts at the start of each chapter? Genius. It keeps the whole alien-hunting vibe strong while low-key roasting every sci-fi trope in the book.
The characters? A+. Marv’s chaotic energy is balanced perfectly by Jace’s laid-back vibe and Nora’s smart-but-new-kid awkwardness. They feel like real kids, complete with snarky comebacks, inside jokes, and that ride-or-die friendship dynamic that makes you nostalgic for summer nights chasing after trouble.
Perfect For:
👽 Middle-grade readers who vibe with action-packed sci-fi
👽 Anyone who grew up watching E.T., The Goonies, or Men in Black
👽 Adults who refuse to let go of their childhood imaginations
This book legit reads like an 80s/90s adventure flick—fun, fast, and full of heart. It’s the kind of story that makes you wanna grab your flashlight, gather your squad, and go alien-hunting in the woods. And the ending? Let’s just say, I better see a sequel because I’m not ready to let this crew go just yet.
Final verdict? This book is out of this world. 🚀 Kenan
By: Kevin Garone
Publisher: Temor Press
Release Date: March 11, 2025
Length: 208 pages
Triggers: Mild peril, some characters get “chomped” (but nothing too gnarly)
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Aliens? Conspiracy? Or Just One Kid’s Wild Imagination?
Alright, y’all, buckle up—this book is a straight-up blast! Imagine Stranger Things had a baby with The Last Kids on Earth, and that kid was raised on alien invasion movies and too many conspiracy theories. That’s I Know What UFO Did Last Summer in a nutshell.
Marv (aka Gold Leader) is your classic UFO-obsessed, tinfoil-hat-wearing kid who’s 100% convinced an alien invasion is about to go down in his backyard. His best bud Jace (Baller One) and new neighbor Nora (Space Cadet) aren’t exactly buying his little green men theories, but hey, they’re down for some nighttime adventures. And then—boom—things get weird. A mysterious craft. Creepy leech-like creatures. Shady government types. And a dude in a red pickup truck who’s giving off major X-Files energy.
The humor in this book is top-tier. Marv is the kind of unreliable narrator that keeps you cracking up, even when things start hitting the fan. The way he twists literally everything into proof of an alien takeover is hilarious. Like, my guy sees a blinking light and immediately jumps to, “Yup, the mothership has landed.” His conspiracy-laced inner monologue is straight comedy gold.
But it’s not just laughs—there’s plenty of action too. Short chapters make this a quick, addictive read, and when the danger ramps up, it’s edge-of-your-seat good. The How to Survive an Alien Invasion excerpts at the start of each chapter? Genius. It keeps the whole alien-hunting vibe strong while low-key roasting every sci-fi trope in the book.
The characters? A+. Marv’s chaotic energy is balanced perfectly by Jace’s laid-back vibe and Nora’s smart-but-new-kid awkwardness. They feel like real kids, complete with snarky comebacks, inside jokes, and that ride-or-die friendship dynamic that makes you nostalgic for summer nights chasing after trouble.
Perfect For:
👽 Middle-grade readers who vibe with action-packed sci-fi
👽 Anyone who grew up watching E.T., The Goonies, or Men in Black
👽 Adults who refuse to let go of their childhood imaginations
This book legit reads like an 80s/90s adventure flick—fun, fast, and full of heart. It’s the kind of story that makes you wanna grab your flashlight, gather your squad, and go alien-hunting in the woods. And the ending? Let’s just say, I better see a sequel because I’m not ready to let this crew go just yet.
Final verdict? This book is out of this world. 🚀 Kenan
March 21, 2025
I haven't chuckled so much while reading a book in a very long time. Marv (Code Name: Gold Leader) is a twelve-year-old with a problem. He knows that the alien invasion (if it isn't already underway) is going to happen soon and no one will listen to him. A couple of years before the start of the novel, his mean older brother Cam (Code Name: Alien Bait) tried to cheap out on a birthday present by buying him a copy of How to Survive an Alien Invasion off the discount rack and unwittingly changed Marv's life. Now he, and his only friend, Jace (Code Name: Baller One), spend their weekends camping out and searching the skies for the coming alien threat. Jace considers it all a game, but Marv is a true believer. When a new family with a girl their age, Nora (Code Name: Space Cadet) moves in, Marv is convinced that the aliens are finally here--and he's almost right.
The three preteens end up searching the woods for the source of a mysterious light and stumble across what appears to be a spaceship and space alien, setting them off on the adventure Marv has long waited for—a mission to save the world. As the story advances, the reader, and everyone else, comes to realize they are not dealing with aliens (although I think that is somewhat arguable), but a threat generated on earth. But—and this is what makes the story so wonderful—Marv cannot be deterred from his alien mania. He fits every new piece of information into his theory of alien invasion and finds actual helpful advice in how to handle their problem in his crazy alien survival guide.
I never wanted to put this zany book down. I had fun with it from the first to last page and find myself hoping that there will be a sequel.
The three preteens end up searching the woods for the source of a mysterious light and stumble across what appears to be a spaceship and space alien, setting them off on the adventure Marv has long waited for—a mission to save the world. As the story advances, the reader, and everyone else, comes to realize they are not dealing with aliens (although I think that is somewhat arguable), but a threat generated on earth. But—and this is what makes the story so wonderful—Marv cannot be deterred from his alien mania. He fits every new piece of information into his theory of alien invasion and finds actual helpful advice in how to handle their problem in his crazy alien survival guide.
I never wanted to put this zany book down. I had fun with it from the first to last page and find myself hoping that there will be a sequel.
April 6, 2025
Aliens are full of surprises.
One of the reasons why I enjoy reading the middle grade genre so much has to do with the differences between how kids and adults can interpret the same experience. Mr. Garone tapped into this in order to give the audience multiple explanations for why certain things happened, and it made me chuckle to take note of how Marv and his friends understood those events versus what the average adult would probably say about them.
It would have been helpful to have more character development, especially for Marv. His interest in aliens was so strong that it sometimes overshadowed everyone else’s interests. There was a thought-provoking scene later in which another character confronted him for expecting his hobby to always be put first that I wish had been given more time to grow. Marv could be a little selfish at times even if he didn’t always realize he was coming across that way. If this had been explored more, I would have happily gone for a full five-star rating.
The plot twists in this book were imaginative and exciting. It was difficult for this reader to find good places to stop when I needed to go do something else for a while due to how often these revelations made me look at the characters in new ways. What an excellent problem to have! Every scene propelled things forward in some way, and I was surprised more than once by what Marvin, Nora, and Jace didn’t see coming.
I Know What UFO Did Last Summer made me wish for a sequel!
One of the reasons why I enjoy reading the middle grade genre so much has to do with the differences between how kids and adults can interpret the same experience. Mr. Garone tapped into this in order to give the audience multiple explanations for why certain things happened, and it made me chuckle to take note of how Marv and his friends understood those events versus what the average adult would probably say about them.
It would have been helpful to have more character development, especially for Marv. His interest in aliens was so strong that it sometimes overshadowed everyone else’s interests. There was a thought-provoking scene later in which another character confronted him for expecting his hobby to always be put first that I wish had been given more time to grow. Marv could be a little selfish at times even if he didn’t always realize he was coming across that way. If this had been explored more, I would have happily gone for a full five-star rating.
The plot twists in this book were imaginative and exciting. It was difficult for this reader to find good places to stop when I needed to go do something else for a while due to how often these revelations made me look at the characters in new ways. What an excellent problem to have! Every scene propelled things forward in some way, and I was surprised more than once by what Marvin, Nora, and Jace didn’t see coming.
I Know What UFO Did Last Summer made me wish for a sequel!
March 29, 2025
I got this book for free, in exchange for my honest opinion via Booksirens.
With part adventure and part science fiction, this is a great read for middle grade readers! With it's charming characters, this story is a reminder of a time when you were young and could believe in anything.
This story follows three pre-teen kids, Marvin (code name: Gold Leader), Jace (code name: Baller One), and Nora (code name: Space Cadet). Marvin is obsessed with UFOs every since his brother got him an alien guide. Marvin always drags his friend Jace into his preparation for the impending alien invasion. Noe he has a new next door neighbour involved too. Nora, not into Marvin's whole UFO obsession, but doesn't have any new friends, decides to tag along. When the three kids spot a flashlight in the woods, they know something is going on. It's not a UFO, but it is still something that can involve outer space. Toss in some real life bad guys, and the kids discover they are in for more than they bargained for.
This book is absolute magic! It taps into our childlike wonder and I couldn't get enough.
Thank you, Booksirens and Kevin Garone for allowing me to review! As always, my review is my own opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared to my Instagram @what_emm_reads shortly.
With part adventure and part science fiction, this is a great read for middle grade readers! With it's charming characters, this story is a reminder of a time when you were young and could believe in anything.
This story follows three pre-teen kids, Marvin (code name: Gold Leader), Jace (code name: Baller One), and Nora (code name: Space Cadet). Marvin is obsessed with UFOs every since his brother got him an alien guide. Marvin always drags his friend Jace into his preparation for the impending alien invasion. Noe he has a new next door neighbour involved too. Nora, not into Marvin's whole UFO obsession, but doesn't have any new friends, decides to tag along. When the three kids spot a flashlight in the woods, they know something is going on. It's not a UFO, but it is still something that can involve outer space. Toss in some real life bad guys, and the kids discover they are in for more than they bargained for.
This book is absolute magic! It taps into our childlike wonder and I couldn't get enough.
Thank you, Booksirens and Kevin Garone for allowing me to review! As always, my review is my own opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared to my Instagram @what_emm_reads shortly.
March 6, 2025
This was a very fun sci-fi middle grade story that I enjoyed so much. The story revolves around a boy named Marv-which is a very appropriate name for him- who’s a bit obsessed with UFOs. While on the lookout for extra terrestrials in their small town, Marc and his best friend discover that something sinister might be going on in the woods, and perhaps the otherworldly threat is closer and more real than anyone could imagine.
I really liked the banter in this book in general. Marv’s inner thoughts especially were quite funny to read. And there was definitely more action than I expected, that was a pleasant surprise.
The only criticism I could have about this book would be the way Marv is too obsessed with aliens, to the point that I wondered if there was some underlying psychological reference that was being made. But once the action hits, and the sci-fi elements are in, you just leave it to the story, and Marv and his friends, to entertain you till the end.
If you like movies like Jumanji or Zathura, this definitely had the same vibes, highly recommend it.
I was kindly given a copy of this book, and all opinions are my own.
I really liked the banter in this book in general. Marv’s inner thoughts especially were quite funny to read. And there was definitely more action than I expected, that was a pleasant surprise.
The only criticism I could have about this book would be the way Marv is too obsessed with aliens, to the point that I wondered if there was some underlying psychological reference that was being made. But once the action hits, and the sci-fi elements are in, you just leave it to the story, and Marv and his friends, to entertain you till the end.
If you like movies like Jumanji or Zathura, this definitely had the same vibes, highly recommend it.
I was kindly given a copy of this book, and all opinions are my own.
March 9, 2025
A brilliant narrative! The tale is brisk, exhilarating, and unforgettable, seamlessly merging elements of sci-fi, antagonists, creatures, and subtle hints of extraterrestrial life. Told through the perspective of Marvin, an ardent UFO enthusiast, the story chronicles his escapades as he involves his friend Jace and new neighbor Nora in his alien invasion plots.
Despite Nora's initial skepticism towards Marvin's obsession, she joins him in his quest for excitement. Before long, the trio discovers a flickering light in the forest, suggesting a profound, cosmic enigma—with genuine antagonists entering the scene, the tension escalates.
Marvin's nutty storytelling, complete with code names like “Gold Leader,” “Baller One,” and “Space Cadet,” renders him an amusing and engaging narrator as the adventure unfolds. Some of the creatures might unsettle younger readers, but the peril is not overpowering. With its cliffhanger conclusion hinting at a sequel, I am convinced this book will captivate children. I highly recommend it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Despite Nora's initial skepticism towards Marvin's obsession, she joins him in his quest for excitement. Before long, the trio discovers a flickering light in the forest, suggesting a profound, cosmic enigma—with genuine antagonists entering the scene, the tension escalates.
Marvin's nutty storytelling, complete with code names like “Gold Leader,” “Baller One,” and “Space Cadet,” renders him an amusing and engaging narrator as the adventure unfolds. Some of the creatures might unsettle younger readers, but the peril is not overpowering. With its cliffhanger conclusion hinting at a sequel, I am convinced this book will captivate children. I highly recommend it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 26, 2025
My rating: 3.5 stars
Twelve-year old Marv has been preparing for an alien invasion for his entire life. He has convinced himself he’s detected extraterrestrials so often the National Guard ignores his calls. But when he and his friends – Jace and new neighbor Nora - find a man exiting a strange craft in the woods behind his house, Marv’s years of preparation prove worthwhile. It’s up to them to save Earth.
I Know What UFO Did Last summer shines when Marv is putting his ufologist knowledge to use and working with his friends in tense situations. The action is fast-paced and thrilling, with some funny moments. But the characters felt flat to me. Apart from Marv finally learning to be a better friend, there was little growth of any character. Marv and Jace especially were defined by their singular, almost obsessive interests: aliens and basketball respectively.
I think MG readers who love action with a light sci-fi slant will enjoy I Know What UFO Did Last Summer, just beware that there are a few rather violent scenes that may be shocking to younger readers.
Thank you to the author for providing the e-arc for my honest review.
Twelve-year old Marv has been preparing for an alien invasion for his entire life. He has convinced himself he’s detected extraterrestrials so often the National Guard ignores his calls. But when he and his friends – Jace and new neighbor Nora - find a man exiting a strange craft in the woods behind his house, Marv’s years of preparation prove worthwhile. It’s up to them to save Earth.
I Know What UFO Did Last summer shines when Marv is putting his ufologist knowledge to use and working with his friends in tense situations. The action is fast-paced and thrilling, with some funny moments. But the characters felt flat to me. Apart from Marv finally learning to be a better friend, there was little growth of any character. Marv and Jace especially were defined by their singular, almost obsessive interests: aliens and basketball respectively.
I think MG readers who love action with a light sci-fi slant will enjoy I Know What UFO Did Last Summer, just beware that there are a few rather violent scenes that may be shocking to younger readers.
Thank you to the author for providing the e-arc for my honest review.
March 23, 2025
I received an advanced reader copy.
I really liked this book. Twelve-year-old me probably would've loved this book. However, I think even young me might've found Marv's single-mindedness in seeing aliens and alien conspiracies everywhere to be a little tedious. He doesn't even refocus when confronted with both actual alien creatures and a real conspiracy while out one night searching the night sky for a possible invasion.
Marv's best fried Jace, aka Baller One, loves basketball and spew stats and history from memory, but he's still grounded in reality. Rounding out the group is their new neighbor, Nora, whom Marv gives the codename "Space Cadet". Marv believes she's actually an alien like her father but she might not be aware that she is. He also believes Nora's father knows something about the alien and the ship that appears in the woods.
After a freak lightning strike send Marv and Jace into the middle of the conspiracy, it's up to those meddling kids (and one dad) to save the day.
Four stars.
I really liked this book. Twelve-year-old me probably would've loved this book. However, I think even young me might've found Marv's single-mindedness in seeing aliens and alien conspiracies everywhere to be a little tedious. He doesn't even refocus when confronted with both actual alien creatures and a real conspiracy while out one night searching the night sky for a possible invasion.
Marv's best fried Jace, aka Baller One, loves basketball and spew stats and history from memory, but he's still grounded in reality. Rounding out the group is their new neighbor, Nora, whom Marv gives the codename "Space Cadet". Marv believes she's actually an alien like her father but she might not be aware that she is. He also believes Nora's father knows something about the alien and the ship that appears in the woods.
After a freak lightning strike send Marv and Jace into the middle of the conspiracy, it's up to those meddling kids (and one dad) to save the day.
Four stars.
May 30, 2025
I know what UFO Did Last Summer has to be one of the most funnest, adventurous books I've read this year. Marv's only goal and sole purpose is to prevent an alien invasion from happening on earth with his best bud, Jace. He follows everything by the book, and by the book, I mean his rule book How to Survive an Alien Invasion, of course. As they are performing their routine sky watch one night, they see mysterious lights coming from the woods and upon further investigation, they are chased by someone or "something" that seemed dressed like a human with something that looks like a spaceship.
This story had a couple plot twists and I loved the direction it took us in. This book really brings the love for ufo and skywatching for activity to the forefront because like Marv, I am a true believer. It reminded me so much of my childhood. I absolutely loved this story. I know it's something my middle schoolers would love and am purchasing two copied for each kid. Amazing work Kevin... this was a great adventure that felt like magic.
This story had a couple plot twists and I loved the direction it took us in. This book really brings the love for ufo and skywatching for activity to the forefront because like Marv, I am a true believer. It reminded me so much of my childhood. I absolutely loved this story. I know it's something my middle schoolers would love and am purchasing two copied for each kid. Amazing work Kevin... this was a great adventure that felt like magic.
January 29, 2025
One summer evening, best friends Marv and Jace stumble upon an unidentified craft in the nearby woods. While investigating, they meet a new girl in town, Nora, who just recently moved to town with her dad. Extra-terrestrial-obsessed Marv instantly doesn’t trust her or the men in the woods who are looking for the craft. So, he sets out to finally confirm that aliens have landed on planet earth, warn the proper authorities, and save the world.
I Know What UFO Did Last Summer is a fun, action-packed, middle grade read featuring a fun team of kid characters, plenty of twists and turns, and high stakes that any sci-fi reader will love while still maintaining a grounded yet interesting tone. I recommend it to be added to summer reading lists for readers of all ages but especially kids who are nearing the end of their childhoods and steering into their teen years.
A full review will follow.
I Know What UFO Did Last Summer is a fun, action-packed, middle grade read featuring a fun team of kid characters, plenty of twists and turns, and high stakes that any sci-fi reader will love while still maintaining a grounded yet interesting tone. I recommend it to be added to summer reading lists for readers of all ages but especially kids who are nearing the end of their childhoods and steering into their teen years.
A full review will follow.
February 15, 2025
This review is for an ARC copy received from the publisher through NetGalley.
Twelve-year old Marv is obsessed with aliens. So much so that he's recruited his best friend to help him watch for them all the time. Then on the same day a strange girl and her dad (who just might be aliens) move in next door, Marv discovers an alien craft out in the woods. Though Marv thinks an alien invasion has started, the truth behind the mystery is worse than he could have imagined.
So this is marketed for "middle grade." While Marv's antics and alien over-obsession play to that level, there are elements that seem darker and geared to slightly older kids. It's not a bad story, but I was pretty much over Marv thinking everything is aliens by the middle of the book. Twelve-year olds will probably enjoy it more than I did. 2.5 rounded to 3*
Twelve-year old Marv is obsessed with aliens. So much so that he's recruited his best friend to help him watch for them all the time. Then on the same day a strange girl and her dad (who just might be aliens) move in next door, Marv discovers an alien craft out in the woods. Though Marv thinks an alien invasion has started, the truth behind the mystery is worse than he could have imagined.
So this is marketed for "middle grade." While Marv's antics and alien over-obsession play to that level, there are elements that seem darker and geared to slightly older kids. It's not a bad story, but I was pretty much over Marv thinking everything is aliens by the middle of the book. Twelve-year olds will probably enjoy it more than I did. 2.5 rounded to 3*
March 10, 2025
What I Did Like:
+Solid grasp of Marvin’s character right away, which is excellent in any book and important for this age range. By the end of the first chapter, you already know what to expect from him and you like him.
+The action is quick and keeps your interest. Plus the chapters are short, which paces you nicely through the book.
+The kids have good banter and there is some humor tossed around, which keeps the story fresh. Even when we’re dealing with heavy action scenes, you might find a reason to smile or laugh.
Who Should Read This One:
Middle grade readers who like action and science fiction elements!
My Rating: 4 Stars
An overall cute MG Sci Fi story that delivers for the intended audience.
For Full Review: https://alltherightreads.com/2025/03/...
+Solid grasp of Marvin’s character right away, which is excellent in any book and important for this age range. By the end of the first chapter, you already know what to expect from him and you like him.
+The action is quick and keeps your interest. Plus the chapters are short, which paces you nicely through the book.
+The kids have good banter and there is some humor tossed around, which keeps the story fresh. Even when we’re dealing with heavy action scenes, you might find a reason to smile or laugh.
Who Should Read This One:
Middle grade readers who like action and science fiction elements!
My Rating: 4 Stars
An overall cute MG Sci Fi story that delivers for the intended audience.
For Full Review: https://alltherightreads.com/2025/03/...
August 10, 2025
Stranger Things meets Goosebumps in this new MG paranormal series by @kevingaroneauthor
🛸
Marv thinks the alien invasion is happening when what he believes to be a UFO crashes in the woods behind his house. How could this be connected with the new girl who moved in next door? Marv doesn’t know, but he’s gonna find out!
🚽
It’s been a few months since Marv’s close encounter and something strange happens again! This time it’s a motorcycle driving itself through the woods. Marv takes the bike to his fort only to return the next day to show his friends and discovers the fort is completely destroyed and the toilet paper left behind is alive!
🧻
These titles were so fun to read (sorry it took me so long, Kevin!) It brings humor and the supernatural together that will appeal to many kids. I love the play on words with the titles too. Book 1️⃣ is out now & book 2️⃣ releases 9/23!
🛸
Marv thinks the alien invasion is happening when what he believes to be a UFO crashes in the woods behind his house. How could this be connected with the new girl who moved in next door? Marv doesn’t know, but he’s gonna find out!
🚽
It’s been a few months since Marv’s close encounter and something strange happens again! This time it’s a motorcycle driving itself through the woods. Marv takes the bike to his fort only to return the next day to show his friends and discovers the fort is completely destroyed and the toilet paper left behind is alive!
🧻
These titles were so fun to read (sorry it took me so long, Kevin!) It brings humor and the supernatural together that will appeal to many kids. I love the play on words with the titles too. Book 1️⃣ is out now & book 2️⃣ releases 9/23!
September 27, 2025
I know what the ufo did last summer is a fun entertaining, suspenseful & exciting story.
12 year old Marv is more then obsessed with aliens they consume his every thought. Next door to him a girl and her dad move in( they might just be aliens)
Marv recruits his best friend aka baller one to stake it the woods look for aliens but this day is different. The “Alien”/girl next door follows them & every of changes.
Marv & him friend plus the new neighbour girl discover an alien craft out in the woods. Marv is sure an alien invasion has started, but the truth behind the alien invasion the woods is worse than he could have imagined.
I found my self holding my breath on the edge of my seat just crossing my fingers he made his escape from the alien chasing him down.
12 year old Marv is more then obsessed with aliens they consume his every thought. Next door to him a girl and her dad move in( they might just be aliens)
Marv recruits his best friend aka baller one to stake it the woods look for aliens but this day is different. The “Alien”/girl next door follows them & every of changes.
Marv & him friend plus the new neighbour girl discover an alien craft out in the woods. Marv is sure an alien invasion has started, but the truth behind the alien invasion the woods is worse than he could have imagined.
I found my self holding my breath on the edge of my seat just crossing my fingers he made his escape from the alien chasing him down.
February 15, 2025
Disclaimer: Thank you and NetGalley for the eARC.
Aliens! *insert aliens meme here*
What happens when a group of rag tag teens stumble upon a spaceship or... machine? Will they stop the alien invasion? You can find out by following the adventure of Gold Leader, Baller One and Space Cadet.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book which seems to be Kevin Garone's debut title. (Congratulations!) It really brings out the kid in you as you follow the adventure through Marv's eyes. It's definitely all alien... to him.
As far as I'm aware, this is the first book that will become a series and I'm excited to see where it's heading next!
Aliens! *insert aliens meme here*
What happens when a group of rag tag teens stumble upon a spaceship or... machine? Will they stop the alien invasion? You can find out by following the adventure of Gold Leader, Baller One and Space Cadet.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book which seems to be Kevin Garone's debut title. (Congratulations!) It really brings out the kid in you as you follow the adventure through Marv's eyes. It's definitely all alien... to him.
As far as I'm aware, this is the first book that will become a series and I'm excited to see where it's heading next!
March 29, 2025
Garone did a great job of bringing sci-fi to this middle grade while also not making it read too juvenile so older readers can enjoy it as well. I also felt that he did a great job with the balancing of the characters. I was nervous that the main character Marv would be unlikable as the book continued, but Garone did a wonderful job of making his character read more neurodivergent rather than annoying and pretentious. The second main character Jace was also well balanced with his passion for sports and being a good friend to Marv even if it isnt always reciprocated.This was a fun and easy read that I think others would enjoy as well!
April 12, 2025
Review for I Know what UFO Did Last Summer
By Kevin Garone
I got this Kindle version from the author for a review and I must say even though it's YA, it's a fun one. I love reading a good YA, as a palette cleanser and that's what this is. From finding UFO and Aliens and trying to convince the town what he found. Marvin tells an amazing story of extra terrestrials.
If you like Stranger Things, you'll love this book, I gave it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Go grab a copy of it and read it, you won't be let down, especially if you love nostalgia. 👻👻 👽 👽
By Kevin Garone
I got this Kindle version from the author for a review and I must say even though it's YA, it's a fun one. I love reading a good YA, as a palette cleanser and that's what this is. From finding UFO and Aliens and trying to convince the town what he found. Marvin tells an amazing story of extra terrestrials.
If you like Stranger Things, you'll love this book, I gave it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Go grab a copy of it and read it, you won't be let down, especially if you love nostalgia. 👻👻 👽 👽
June 3, 2025
This book was a fantastic read that captivated both me and my children (ages 11 and 13). The storyline and characters were engaging enough to hold all of our attention from start to finish. It sparked meaningful conversations and excitement, with my kids eager to share their thoughts after each chapter. My 11-year-old even went so far as to request the book be added to his school library—a true testament to its impact. For me, it was an enjoyable, quick read that offered a wonderful shared experience with my children. Highly recommended for families looking for a book everyone can enjoy.
September 13, 2025
Think Goonies mixed with Men in Black and you have Marvin and his friends. Kevin brings us a great middle school book that is just as exciting for adults to read. Marvin narrates this story and believes an alien invasion has occurred. The humor and workings of the mind ring true for his age. He and his friends search for any clues to this and what all they stumble upon and uncover makes you keep turning the pages for more. This is my first read for this type of book, and I look to read more like it in the future.
March 9, 2025
This is a fun book for young nerds and any age nerds who wants a good laugh. You can’t help but like Marv and his laser beam focus on everything UFO and everybody needs to be examined under a microscope! I loved the code names he comes up with for everyone. I agree with another reviewer that this would make a great Disney movie. I hope Kevin Garone keeps writing books. Let’s hear it for tinfoil hats!!
March 13, 2025
ARC READER REVIEW
⭐⭐⭐✨
Middle Grade Read about a boy, Marv Gold Leader, who believes in aliens 👽 and works actively to protect earth from harm. When the house next door sells to Mr. Silva & his daughter Space Cadet, Marv is thrown into a world of government espionage.
This book has danger, humor, and lovable characters. I think this is a great read for middle schoolers.
The ending is a little bit of a cliffhanger so I'm curious if he plans to write more for this series.
⭐⭐⭐✨
Middle Grade Read about a boy, Marv Gold Leader, who believes in aliens 👽 and works actively to protect earth from harm. When the house next door sells to Mr. Silva & his daughter Space Cadet, Marv is thrown into a world of government espionage.
This book has danger, humor, and lovable characters. I think this is a great read for middle schoolers.
The ending is a little bit of a cliffhanger so I'm curious if he plans to write more for this series.
March 15, 2025
Some might call Marv a weird kid and I am of the opinion that they would be right. But this weird kid sure makes for a good protagonist! Marv has been watching out for an alien invasion for a long time now. What he and his friends get wrapped up in is definitely dangerous and involves unusual, even unexplainable creatures. Garone wrote a great adventure with lots of peril and excitement. The characters are endearing and I loved how the story ended.
March 25, 2025
The book was such a blast! I Know What UFO Did Last Summer is packed with humor, adventure, and a cast of characters that are just so much fun. Marv, the main character, had me rooting for him the whole way through—he’s quirky, determined, and impossible not to love. The story is fast-paced, filled with hilarious twists, and keeps you hooked from start to finish. If you’re looking for a book that’s lighthearted, witty, and just downright entertaining, this one is a must-read!
September 24, 2025
I Know What UFO Did Last Summer by Kevin Garone is a fun and adventurous middle grade read. Marv, a 12-year-old who is obsessed with aliens, suddenly finds himself facing the real thing. When his hometown is threatened by an alien attack, he and his friends must work together to save the day. Full of humor, friendship, and action, this story is perfect for young readers who love sci-fi adventures.
March 10, 2025
He and his friends believe they are being invaded by aliens but no one believes them. They keep,trying to find out what is going on and get the help they need to stop the aliens they believe are there already. A great read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it was a great read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it was a great read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews