Someone's been Messing with Reality by John Hearne

Martin’s parents have disappeared. Also, it turns out, they are aliens. Which makes Martin …?

Then Martin and Tina discover enormous light-emitting eggs in an abandoned mine. It is clear they are not going to be hatching out anything cuddly. And so the kids try to blow them up. But instead of blowing up, huge killer insects hatch, and go on a mission to destroy all human life on earth. Oops.

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Genre

This is a mildly sci fi, funny, adventure story for confident readers.

Series? 

I understand this is not a series at the moment, but if enough people want one perhaps John will oblige!

A Glimpse into the Story

Martin has always assumed he was a perfectly normal kid, like his friends Tina and Ethan. Well...not Ethan so much, since the...thing. But still, a normal kid. Until the accident with the trail camera reveals that nothing is as he thought it was.

Pacing and Structure

Most of the story takes place over the course of a couple of very eventful days and nights. Although there's a lot going on, nothing ever feels too rushed or too slow. Things happen at the right times.

Meet the Cast

Martin thought he was normal. Tina had her suspicions. Ethan...well, no one knows exactly what Ethan thinks any more. Citizens of the town are mostly occupied with the annual UFO, but some of them are helpful...or harmful.

Character Development

Oddly I think Tina had the most development! Martin had to accept some crazy things, but Tina had to face up to a part of herself that she was ashamed and horrified by, and I think that was harder.

The Author's Voice

If you've read John's other book you'll recognise the tone here. His characters are very recognisably children, but they're old enough to know how much danger they're in, and there's some snarking while they're in tight spots that made me laugh despite what was happening around them.

Overall Impression

This is a great adventure story full of heart and magic. Definitely one to recommend.

Further Reading/Viewing

John Hearne has written another book that anyone who enjoys this one will love. For another story with aliens - and a bit more pee - try My Brother is a Superhero.

Someone's been Messing with Reality publishes on the 18th of July, 2024. I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.