Of Jenny and the Aliens

Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: March 4, 2018

Review

Is it the end of the world? Ten years after sending a transmission into space, a message has returned proving that we are not alone. Will the fear of aliens bond humans together and end wars and conflicts? Will Derek die a virgin or will he meet a girl at an “End of the World” party? The plot explores these questions and weaves together the story of a broken family, the angst of first-time love, and alien exploration of Earth with humor. The alien plot line, although interesting, feels lost at times under the story of Derek’s confusion about his first love. The alien story comes back in as an intervention of sorts that helps Derek move forward with his love life, friendships, and family situation. This is a hard book to recommend for an age group. There a lot of sex scenes, as well as drug and alcohol use that feels beyond teenage years and more true to a college experience.

Overall Book Score: very good