The Experiment
Nathan wants to help his people, but first he has to figure out who they are.
Nathan never understood what was “fun” about secrets, probably because he’s always had to keep a very big one. Although he appears to be a typical sixth-grader (with parents, homework and a best friend, Victor), Nathan learned at an early age that his family is from another planet. Now, their time on Earth may be coming to an end.
Nathan, his parents and nine other families are part of an experiment that suddenly seems to be going wrong. Some of the experimenters, including Nathan’s first crush, Izzy, are disappearing without a word. After his family is called back to the mothership, Nathan begins to question everything he’s been taught to believe about who he is and why he’s on Earth.
The Experiment is a fast-paced coming-of-age novel – with aliens – that asks universal questions about how we figure out who we want to be, and whether it’s ever too late to change.
Reviews
A Junior Library GUILD SELECTION
One of NPR’s 2025 “Books We Love”
“Marvelous . . . . deftly plays with larger themes of mind control and manipulation, othering and emotional growth, while never losing sight of the children at the heart of the narrative.” The New York Times Book Review
“The pacing is superb, neatly blending family dynamics, friendship, and tween romance with page-turning mystery, adventure, and horror.” Kirkus Reviews
“Many twists await in this fast-moving and optimistic story by one of today’s most inventive writers for readers ages 8-12.” The Wall Street Journal
★ “[A] delightful addition to the genre that will fly off the shelves. Its relatable themes and imaginative elements ensure it will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page.” School Library Journal