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Intergalactic Backpack
288 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 30, 2026
Book Review: Intergalatic Backpack by Jared Agard
(Forthcoming Release)
From the very first chapter, Intergalactic Backpack had me hooked. Starting the opening scene, I was put into an action-packed adventure that was kicking off right from the start — and then the story hit me with a hilarious twist that instantly hooked me.
What I loved most was how the twists, humor, and energy continued throughout the entire book. Just when I thought I knew where the story was heading, Agard managed to surprise me again. That fun unpredictability became one of my favorite things about this book.
This book was so well written and genuinely funny. I literally laughed out loud throughout the entire thing. The humor felt natural and perfectly timed, and the banter between the characters was hilarious and completely spot on.
I also loved the descriptions throughout the book. Nothing felt overdone, but every setting and character was written in a way that felt relatable — not just for the target audience, but for adults too. Whether it was the uncomfortable memories of middle school awkwardness, interacting with a crush, or laughing about siblings you love no matter how annoying they are, the writing felt authentic and familiar.
One of my favorite parts was the group dynamic, which honestly gave me major Stranger Things vibes. There’s something so satisfying about watching a bunch of misfits come together, each bringing something different to the table. No character felt unnecessary, and their relationships with each other were easily the heart of the story. You really root for them, flaws and all. Every member of the group had their own distinct personality, and together they created such a fun dynamic.
Also — shout out to Portland! Woot woot!
Overall, Intergalactic Backpack was a funny, clever, and creative read. I’m already looking forward to the next books in the series :)
(Forthcoming Release)
From the very first chapter, Intergalactic Backpack had me hooked. Starting the opening scene, I was put into an action-packed adventure that was kicking off right from the start — and then the story hit me with a hilarious twist that instantly hooked me.
What I loved most was how the twists, humor, and energy continued throughout the entire book. Just when I thought I knew where the story was heading, Agard managed to surprise me again. That fun unpredictability became one of my favorite things about this book.
This book was so well written and genuinely funny. I literally laughed out loud throughout the entire thing. The humor felt natural and perfectly timed, and the banter between the characters was hilarious and completely spot on.
I also loved the descriptions throughout the book. Nothing felt overdone, but every setting and character was written in a way that felt relatable — not just for the target audience, but for adults too. Whether it was the uncomfortable memories of middle school awkwardness, interacting with a crush, or laughing about siblings you love no matter how annoying they are, the writing felt authentic and familiar.
One of my favorite parts was the group dynamic, which honestly gave me major Stranger Things vibes. There’s something so satisfying about watching a bunch of misfits come together, each bringing something different to the table. No character felt unnecessary, and their relationships with each other were easily the heart of the story. You really root for them, flaws and all. Every member of the group had their own distinct personality, and together they created such a fun dynamic.
Also — shout out to Portland! Woot woot!
Overall, Intergalactic Backpack was a funny, clever, and creative read. I’m already looking forward to the next books in the series :)
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I enjoyed this well-written, fast-paced story about a sixth grader named Epson who is trying to survive middle school. As if middle school isn’t hard enough, Epson finds an alien named Proctor in his backpack who informs him that he must pass three epic quests in order to save the universe from complete destruction.
Throughout the book, Epson gradually teams up with three other unlikely friends in order to complete each mission, growing and gaining confidence with every step.
Expect to be entertained by the unusually creative twists and turns that happen along the way such as dangling from the Empire State building with the mascot of a fast-food restaurant, fighting a deadly alien who has a mustard allergy, and being whisked through a portal to attend a boy-band concert that is being overtaken by an electric mortzle. Each detail of the story will surprise you and keep you curious for what will happen next!
All this, plus you will be laughing at the self-deprecating humor of the main character and the true-to-life dialogue of the middle-schoolers in the story. In the end your heart will be warmed as each unique character comes to realize their important role on the team.
But who is the villain that is behind the alien Proctor? It seems that a sequel must be coming….stay tuned!
Throughout the book, Epson gradually teams up with three other unlikely friends in order to complete each mission, growing and gaining confidence with every step.
Expect to be entertained by the unusually creative twists and turns that happen along the way such as dangling from the Empire State building with the mascot of a fast-food restaurant, fighting a deadly alien who has a mustard allergy, and being whisked through a portal to attend a boy-band concert that is being overtaken by an electric mortzle. Each detail of the story will surprise you and keep you curious for what will happen next!
All this, plus you will be laughing at the self-deprecating humor of the main character and the true-to-life dialogue of the middle-schoolers in the story. In the end your heart will be warmed as each unique character comes to realize their important role on the team.
But who is the villain that is behind the alien Proctor? It seems that a sequel must be coming….stay tuned!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is such a fun read! This book is super-relateable and will transport you back to those awkward middle school years. Remember the ones when you were sure it was you that owned that BO smell that lingered in your middle school hallways? Remember how you quaked in the presence of your first big crush?
It's chock full of rage-inducing cliffhangers that will be so fun to read aloud to a classroom of kids. As a teacher, I wholeheartedly recommend to read to grades 5 and up. As a parent, good luck getting through without cracking up. The opportunity for voices and sound effects will make this a very addictive read. It's also filled with practical life lessons that aren't preach-y. Epson, the main character begins the tale as a very self-conscious social outcast and through the adventure that unfolds, he finds belonging, his backbone and his voice.
Kudos, I can't wait until the next one!!
It's chock full of rage-inducing cliffhangers that will be so fun to read aloud to a classroom of kids. As a teacher, I wholeheartedly recommend to read to grades 5 and up. As a parent, good luck getting through without cracking up. The opportunity for voices and sound effects will make this a very addictive read. It's also filled with practical life lessons that aren't preach-y. Epson, the main character begins the tale as a very self-conscious social outcast and through the adventure that unfolds, he finds belonging, his backbone and his voice.
Kudos, I can't wait until the next one!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book genuinely kept me hooked from start to finish. It’s a true page turner that I’d recommend to anyone. I love the found family dynamic of the characters and how each has a distinct voice.
It was so much fun to read about characters that aren’t perfect in every way and characters who mess up and really seem human.
Most of all, I really developed a soft spot for the unassuming main character—who really does grow as a person in such a satisfying way that a lot of books can’t pull off.
I loved the storyline (personally, anything with aliens drags me right in) and how fluid the story was throughout.
I also wanted to give an honorable mention to the original artwork throughout the story—I thought it was so cool that the author was both the artist and the writer :)
All in all, this book was genuinely one of a kind and it departs wonderful themes and messages about friendship and growth. 10/10 would recommend!
It was so much fun to read about characters that aren’t perfect in every way and characters who mess up and really seem human.
Most of all, I really developed a soft spot for the unassuming main character—who really does grow as a person in such a satisfying way that a lot of books can’t pull off.
I loved the storyline (personally, anything with aliens drags me right in) and how fluid the story was throughout.
I also wanted to give an honorable mention to the original artwork throughout the story—I thought it was so cool that the author was both the artist and the writer :)
All in all, this book was genuinely one of a kind and it departs wonderful themes and messages about friendship and growth. 10/10 would recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wonderful middle grade read! This book is like a delicious stew – lots of great ingredients, beautifully balanced. The story is exciting while also staying grounded, funny with room for seriousness, relatable and at the same time full of surprises.
I really appreciate how Agard gives his characters room to grow; every character has multiple dimensions. No one is perfect, and over the course of the story, we get to see each character shine and discover new aspects of themselves and each other.
This book also has so many positive messages for young readers – about what it means to be a good friend, what it means to take responsibility for your own actions and choices, and what it means to value yourself and see your own strengths. A fun, thoughtful, warm-hearted book with an intricate, creative premise.
I teach middle school language arts, and I’ll definitely be recommending this book to my students.
I really appreciate how Agard gives his characters room to grow; every character has multiple dimensions. No one is perfect, and over the course of the story, we get to see each character shine and discover new aspects of themselves and each other.
This book also has so many positive messages for young readers – about what it means to be a good friend, what it means to take responsibility for your own actions and choices, and what it means to value yourself and see your own strengths. A fun, thoughtful, warm-hearted book with an intricate, creative premise.
I teach middle school language arts, and I’ll definitely be recommending this book to my students.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Intergalactic Backpack is amazing! This book is definitely in my top ten favorite books or series.
First, I like the way that the book flows. From the start to the end the transitions were smooth and it wasn’t even that confusing. When reading this book it was just like being in the movie theater and watching the movie (This book would be a great movie!) The author is able to capture the feeling of the situations very well. The way the characters act in each situation shows how they are like other kids I know—very realistic personalities and reactions. The characters’ personalities are developed really well. I know that I’m going to reread this book and I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
First, I like the way that the book flows. From the start to the end the transitions were smooth and it wasn’t even that confusing. When reading this book it was just like being in the movie theater and watching the movie (This book would be a great movie!) The author is able to capture the feeling of the situations very well. The way the characters act in each situation shows how they are like other kids I know—very realistic personalities and reactions. The characters’ personalities are developed really well. I know that I’m going to reread this book and I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A fun and light read for all ages! I found myself reminded of my imagination as a middle schooler. The awe, curiosity, and the oh so favorite teenage social experience (that sometimes we want to forget) of that time is so perfectly captured.
The story moves along in a captivating manner, I found myself wanting to read more and more as I went along. You can't help but root for the protagonists as they navigate middle school and an almost ever present boyband. A wonderful natural inclusion in the story are fantastic lessons about friendship, compassion, and bravery.
I am excited for the rest of the series and to be able to follow Epson and his friends throughout the rest of their journey!
The story moves along in a captivating manner, I found myself wanting to read more and more as I went along. You can't help but root for the protagonists as they navigate middle school and an almost ever present boyband. A wonderful natural inclusion in the story are fantastic lessons about friendship, compassion, and bravery.
I am excited for the rest of the series and to be able to follow Epson and his friends throughout the rest of their journey!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Intergalactic Backpack had me chortling almost from the first page! Agard speaks middle-grade kid with fluency, and I really felt Epson's growing pains. His determination to overcome his insecurities and save his family and friends felt authentic. Especially touching was his desire to rescue Proctor from his new friends. And, of course, Howie Cow and the corny boy-band lyrics were the icing on the cake!
Review of advance copy
This book was amazing! Super creative and original! I love all the twists and found it impossible to put down! Started reading it on my way to a convention and stayed up till after 2am reading the first night and missed a class because I was so invested! I would have definitely read this in one sitting if I was at home! I have already ordered 5 copies as gifts! I promise, you'll love this whether you are an adult or a teen! Keep writing Jared Agard! I can't wait to read your next book!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a great story! A backpack alien that's about to destroy Earth... what? So clever! Loved how each test brought people together and made them grow in some crucial way. It was seriously fun to watch the characters develop. Excited to see what happens next!
September 1, 2026
Jared Agard manages to pack both humor and heart into one fun package! Intergalactic Backpack is a great read for anyone--middle graders or otherwise--that has struggled with feeling self-doubt or finding their place in the world. Highly recommend!
September 3, 2026
Another great read from author Jared Agard. You won’t be able to put this book down. This is a great option for a whole class read for middle grade teachers.
August 27, 2026
Advanced Review Copy provided by publisher
A really enjoyable read! Good, clean fun; Perfect for 4th grade and up with themes of self confidence, making friends with people different from you, and alien invasions. It even has some light puppy love, so something for everyone.
A really enjoyable read! Good, clean fun; Perfect for 4th grade and up with themes of self confidence, making friends with people different from you, and alien invasions. It even has some light puppy love, so something for everyone.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews