Families who loved The Alien by Katherine Applegate often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the ache of feeling like an outsider or experiencing the unique loneliness that comes from being away from home. While it is a high-stakes science fiction adventure, the heart of the story is about Ax, an alien stranded on Earth, who misses his family so deeply that he is willing to risk everything just to hear their voices. It beautifully explores the tension between loyalty to new friends and the longing for one's roots. This book helps normalize the intense emotions of homesickness and the difficult choices we make when we feel isolated. It is ideal for middle-grade readers who enjoy action but are also ready to reflect on what it means to belong to a community while staying true to where you came from.