We Do Not Welcome Our Ten-Year-Old Overlord by Garth Nix

What worked:

The concept of the book is very intriguing. Kim’s younger sister is a know-it-all but she becomes possessed by some ball-like being from space. Kim can stop it from taking over his mind so he knows how dangerous it can be. However, Eila thinks she’s helping the being she calls Aster so she won’t listen to her brother’s warnings. Kim becomes more worried when Eila starts sneaking the orb out at night and he watches the alien’s light kill thousands of red ants. He tries to get rid of the ball but receives an electric shock for his efforts. Readers’ emotions will range from concern for Eila, to annoyance with her superior attitude, to anger that she’s endangering other humans. Aster’s initial experiments aren’t too serious so readers aren’t sure what to make of the alien. Will it end up helping the world as Eila claims or will Kim’s worst fears come true?

Kim’s best friend is Bennie and the two of them have a tight bond. She always supports Kim’s ideas but she can be more impulsive than him. She’s willing to try touching Aster even after it sends a jolt of electricity through Kim. Their other two D&D friends, Tamara and Theo, become more significant characters in the second half of the book. They’re skeptical of Aster’s existence at first until Kim shows them solid evidence. Theo is the most thoughtful character as he doesn’t jump to conclusions and takes the time to observe and ponder possibilities. He offers a more practical viewpoint than what Kim and Bennie show up to that point.

The author adds a contrast in lifestyles through Kim and Bennie’s families. Kim’s parents run an experimental farm for the government and don’t believe in electronics. The kids are required to help with chores around the house and the farm and they insist on the whole family sitting together for dinner at six o’clock. Kim’s parents wouldn’t approve if they knew he was playing Dungeons and Dragons with his friends. On the other hand, Bennie’s parents are busy with their careers and rarely spend time with their kids. They often argue in front of Bennie and her sister which puts a lot of strain on their mental health. Kim and Bennie are well acquainted with each other’s family situations and they’re always there for each other with emotional support.

What didn’t work as well:

Kim has viable evidence that the ball is dangerous but the author still has him go through the motions of his normal life. He knows the alien is a threat to humanity so why is Kim having fun playing Dungeons and Dragons instead of obsessing over the problem? His friends still want to make time to play the game even as the problem escalates. Readers may wonder if the game has more importance than simply being a fun activity.

The final verdict:

Eila’s know-it-all attitude adds a twist to the conflict as the action ramps up to an exciting, suspenseful climax. The possession of a ten-year-old girl is unusual and compelling which should attract the interest of young readers. I recommend you give this book a shot.