Adventure abounds in this quick-paced read which packs in an alien to adore, friendship, tense moments, and a main character, who has a lively personality.

Ethan is a genius, who can build anything out of anything...although his parents aren't always excited to have their stuff go missing. He also has a tough time making friends. When a new boy moves in across the street, his mother insists he stop by and say hello, but Ethan has other plans. He needs to finish his robot at his secret hide-out. But not only does the new kid keeps stumbling in on him, but there's now an alien to deal with.

This is a energetic, adventure-packed read with a trio of main characters to jump right in with. It takes a bit of weaving for the three to get on friendship terms (one of the themes), but when they do, it's a great fit...and they need to work together considering what they're dealing with. Each character holds personality and rounds off the other as they head up against amazing odds and situations, exactly the kind to draw readers in and keep them wondering how things will turn out in the end. Of course, the alien adds a nice twist and lets fantasy fly. And then, there's the adults... the family situations can be sticky but have warmth and support, while other characters make life more than difficult. I had to smile at one of Ethan's comments—adults assume they understand kids, since they were once kids, but never think about asking if a monster chased them home or not. (I'm going to be asking my kids all sorts of weird things now).

The writing keeps this tale moving. The dialogue holds punch, humor, and heart, while feeling natural and letting the characters come to life. I was a little disappointed to see Ethan's own constant claim of being a genius without any shown backing (outside of inventions with no real basis). There are too many books out there for this age group, which dribble in, at least, a miniscule amount of actual terminology, research, or know-how. This book isn't pure ridiculous humor, so a tiny bit would have gone miles. Otherwise, it's a fun read and let's imagination loose in all the right ways. I could see many readers wishing they could join the trio in on the fun and help save the alien, too. I received an ARC and found this to be an exciting read. ( )

Nothing interesting ever happens to Ethan Fairmont is an exciting middle grade science fiction novel. Young readers will definitely love this story full of friendship, strange gadgets, space creatures, mysteries and adventures. It is extremely fun and easy to read and I really enjoyed it myself.

The writing style is amazing. It is light and funny and I couldn’t let the book down before knowing the end. I loved how family and community relationships are at the heart of the story. This novel is BIPOC friendly : Ethan lives in a colorful neighborhood where everybody is here for each other, especially during hard times. Nick Brooks shares a strong and beautiful message of understanding and inclusivity. Difference is not important in this story, as everyone is worth being helped and becoming a friend. More difficult thematics such as police brutality towards black people and divorce are also part of the story.

Food, food, and food. This is how you will befriend an alien. Also shoes. Ethan’s new friend is not exactly from our solar system, but the young boy has no problem communicating and finding solutions to his problem. Our protagonist is an extremely smart young black man and loves inventing new things to help his family and community. His creations are all crazy and fun, and readers will certainly enjoy discovering them. ( )