The humor of this story stems from a shape-shifting alien who accidentally insults humans while trying to mimic their manners. The high stakes of keeping a cosmic secret create a strong bond between the characters and the reader. Books in this family share an outsider perspective on social rules and physical transformations that feel both bizarre and funny.
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to understand social filters or the 'unwritten rules' of making friends. It is a perfect choice for the young reader who feels like an outsider or who often says exactly what they are thinking without realizing it might hurt someone's feelings. The story follows a shape-shifting alien named Lulu who arrives on a Vermont farm and must learn how to be human with the help of two local children. While the premise is fantastical and full of humor, the heart of the story is a deeply relatable exploration of empathy and social nuances. Through Lulu's blunders, children can safely observe and discuss the impact of rudeness and the value of kindness. It is an accessible, lighthearted read for ages 8 to 12 that turns the awkwardness of 'being different' into a source of wonder and growth.
