NetGalley ARC Educator 550974

A wonderful novel, reminiscent of ET, with social issues and historical figures and historical events combined within. It's main theme is friendship. Any middle age child and higher can read this book. Parents will find it a wonderful bed time story as well.

Nick Brooks has crafted a relevant and well-developed story, ideal for upper elementary and middle grades and accessible for older readers, too. This book is hopefully the promise of more to come from this author, and I appreciate the linking to social issues/identity.

In Too Many Interesting Things are Happening to Ethan Fairmont, the second installment of the Ethan Fairmont series, Nick Brooks takes readers on an exciting journey filled with friendship, adventure, and a touch of sci-fi. Even though I hadn't read the first book, I found this one to be a compelling read that stands well on its own.

The story follows Ethan Fairmont, a young protagonist whose life is brimming with school, friends, and inventions. However, things take an unexpected turn when a wave of intriguing events floods Ferrous City, bringing a group of people with questionable intentions toward Ethan's alien friend, Cheese. As Ethan and his friends strive to find a way to communicate with Cheese while keeping his existence a secret, readers are taken on a thrilling ride filled with suspense and mystery.

One aspect that stood out to me was the relatability of the characters. Brooks masterfully captures the essence of being a middle-grader, allowing readers to connect with Ethan and his friends on a deeper level. The story subtly addresses relevant and sensitive topics such as jealousy, secrets, and teamwork and even introduces historical nuggets about significant figures like Katherine Johnson, the human computer at NASA. One of my favorite quotes came from Di: “My granny always says ‘a what-if never made a sandwich.’ I think it means you have to worry about it when it happens. Waiting for bad stuff to happen means you’re not enjoying when bad stuff isn't happening.” This quote is a perfect middle-grade explanation of living in the moment and I'm here for it. The organic inclusion of representation and kid-friendly resiliency message adds a layer of richness to the narrative and creates a more immersive reading experience.

Moreover, the book excellently tackles themes of friendship, social justice, and community. Brooks weaves these important messages seamlessly into the plot, making the book entertaining and thought-provoking. Whether you're an avid inventor, a science enthusiast, or simply a lover of sci-fi, this book is sure to capture your imagination and keep you engaged from start to finish.

Overall, Too Many Interesting Things are Happening to Ethan Fairmont is an engaging middle-grade sci-fi novel that offers entertainment and a meaningful message. With relatable characters, an intriguing plot, and expertly incorporated themes, this book is a must-read for young readers and adults alike. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in an adventurous and thought-provoking series!