Plot Summary

The Dark Side of Nowhere

Neal Shusterman
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The Dark Side of Nowhere

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1997

Book Brief

Neal Shusterman

The Dark Side of Nowhere

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1997
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Small-town America • Contemporary

Publication Year

1997

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

850L

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Super Short Summary

In The Dark Side of Nowhere by Neal Shusterman, Jason Miller, a seemingly normal boy, discovers his true alien identity after his classmate Ethan dies under mysterious circumstances. Guided by a janitor named Mr. Grant, Jason learns about a group of alien kids, known as Transitionals, sent to scout Earth for potential invasion. As their true forms begin to emerge, Jason resolves to defy their mission to preserve his newfound life and relationships.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.1

1,954 ratings

58%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Neal Shusterman's The Dark Side of Nowhere intrigues with its blend of science fiction and coming-of-age themes. Critics commend its brisk pacing and engaging plot. However, some feel character development is lacking and predictability mars the suspense. Overall, it’s a compelling read for young adult audiences seeking thrilling escapism.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Dark Side of Nowhere?

Readers with a penchant for gripping science fiction infused with existential themes will relish Neal Shusterman's The Dark Side of Nowhere. Fans of Lois Lowry's The Giver and S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders will appreciate the novel’s exploration of identity and social belonging within a compelling, alien-invasion setting.

4.1

1,954 ratings

58%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Small-town America • Contemporary

Publication Year

1997

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

850L

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