Owls Have Come to Take Us Away, The

Twelve-year-old Simon struggles to find himself and his place in the family. He is obsessed with aliens, fantasy, and video games. So, when something strange happens to him on a family camping trip, nobody takes him seriously when he claims that aliens abducted him. This science-fiction and fantasy novel is appropriate for students at the Grade 5–8 levels and may be of particular interest to readers who enjoy this specific genre. In the classroom, it is suitable as an independent reading choice or as part of a literature circle selection. Simon’s strained relationship with his family may encourage students to reflect on their personal experiences and ideas about gender roles, emotions, and mental health.