Ruby Finley vs. the Interstellar Invasion | Books by K. Tempest Bradford

Introducing Ruby Finley: Science Genius

Eleven-year-old Ruby loves studying insects and would do just about anything to be an entomologist. So when she finds the weirdest bug she’s ever seen in her front yard, she does what any scientist would do: quickly capture it for further study.

But this insect is not your average bug. It doesn’t appear in any of Ruby’s bug books . . . And no online experts can identify it. Before Ruby can celebrate discovering a new species, the bug escapes!

Soon, odd things around the neighborhood go missing, and no one’s heard from the cranky old lady down the block for nearly a week. Where did this weird insect come from, where did it go, and why has the neighborhood gone sideways? If she wants answers, Ruby will have to use her best tools—her brain, the Scientific Method, and a crew of neighborhood friends—to catch the strange bug before the feds do.

K. Tempest Bradford’s middle-grade debut is an action-packed backyard mystery full of true friendship, strange adventure, and kids getting into the best kind of trouble.

A Junior Library Guild Selection

Buy Ruby Finley vs. the Interstellar Invasion in Print or Digital

Buy the audiobook narrated by Channie Waites

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Reviews and Praise for Ruby Finley vs. the Interstellar Invasion

“A page-turning mix of science, science fiction, and mystery that will empower readers to pursue their own STEM passions.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Ruby is a fun, smart, and lovably realistic protagonist, well balanced against the different personalities among her friends. Her strength lies in both her capability and her bonds of family, friendship, and community… An entertaining and highly recommended read, perfect for readers who love science and adventure-mysteries.” —Booklist

“Bradford’s entertaining and informative tale highlights the value of scientific and critical thinking as well as the importance of friendship and community.” —School Library Journal

“I inhaled this book in half a day and LOVED every moment! Amazing scientist heroine, alien bug, adventures–this book has it all.” –Yoon Ha Lee, award-winning author of Dragon Pearl

“An action-packed, hilarious, heart-rending story. It is perfect in every way: from Ruby’s dedication to science to her incredible friend group. I am personally ready for Ruby Finley to take over the world.” –Mark Oshiro, award-winning author of The Insiders and You Only Live Once, David Bravo

“This book is the anti-stereotype; one male friend cooks, Ruby’s father is emotionally available both as a parent and as an adult male, and the girls are supplied with video games as well as the boys. There is genuine thoughtfulness present even in the midst of the excitement and adventure…” –Tanita Davis, Dispatches From Wonderland

“A lot of the story… is real world happenings… and this is where the book is strongest. The sci fi part takes the better part of the book to really get going, and then wraps up in a mad rush of excitement at the end (like a fireworks show).” —Charlotte’s Library, fantasy and science fiction books for kids and teenagers