“The story intricately explores the teenagers’ quirky relationships and the notion of what it takes to feel comfortable in one’s own skin. Sophia’s character is authentically geeky, and readers will empathize with her anxiety.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Neuroatypical characters, nerdiness, social anxiety, intelligence, and magic make this book stand out among other contemporary romances.” ―School Library Journal

“Readers struggling with social and personal interaction issues, awkwardness about fitting into their community, and uncertainty about where their future may take them will embrace this novel.” ―Booklist

“Excellent character development of the protagonists (Sophia and Elsie are ‘brown girls’ of South Asian descent; Joshua is white), their diverse group of friends, and their families (Elsie’s brothers, especially, are a hoot) makes the romantic relationship just one among several satisfying story strands, and witty dialogue keeps pages turning.” ―The Horn Book Magazine

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“Charming and witty… Combining elements of science and magic in a spectacular way, this unconventional love story brings two atypical teens with very typical needs happily together.” ―Foreword Reviews

“This teen rom-com satisfies the sweet tooth for a sophisticated but youthful love story without getting too mushy.” ―The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

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Parents’ Choice Silver Honor Award ―Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2018

Kansas State Reading Circle Recommended Reading List (Senior High) ―Kansas National Education Association, 2019

Melissa Keil, born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, studied cinema and anthropology and has spent time as a high school teacher, Middle-Eastern tour guide, waitress, and IT help-desk person. She now works as a children’s book editor, and spends her free time watching YouTube and geek TV. You can visit her website here.

“An amusing and perceptive take on post-adolescent life changes—with a twist.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Alba is a feisty, fun, and introspective narrator…” ―Publishers Weekly

Melissa Keil, born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, studied cinema and anthropology and has spent time as a high school teacher, Middle-Eastern tour guide, waitress, and IT help-desk person. She now works as a children’s book editor, and spends her free time watching YouTube and geek TV. You can visit her website here.

Mike Lawrence illustrated Muddy Max: The Mystery of Marsh Creek and is currently writing and illustrating Star Scouts. He lives with his wife, two sons, and too many pets in Oregon. You can visit his website here.

“This charming story is like a modern YA-lit version of a John Hughes movie–funny, sweet, gentle, awkward, and filled with an endearing cast of odd ducks. Although there is a little teenage drinking in this book (the drinking age in Australia is 16), this title is safe and satisfying in its depictions of friendship and first love. A great choice for those who wish to end their summers with a lighthearted romantic comedy.” ―Booklist

“There’s much to enjoy in the budding relationship between Camilla and Sam. As both kids struggle with issues on the homefront, they find a genuine ease and comfort with one another that make them an unlikely couple worth rooting for. Much like a John Hughes movie, this is a humorous, heartfelt and angst-y romance with the potential to break the gender barrier.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“There’s also more to the book than the will-they-or-won’t-they of Sam and Camilla. The supporting characters–Mike especially–are multifaceted and real. Snappy banter and fish-out-of-water situations combine with touching moments to create an entertaining and diverting read.” ―The Horn Book Magazine

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“Life in Outer Space is funny. Sam’s observances are hilarious as well as sweet and awkward. It’s unusual to read a book solely told from the boy’s point of view, but Sam is a great boy to read.” ―Escape into Words

“ADORABLE nerd-love story from down under! Star Wars and World of Warcraft and music nerdery and horror films and more. I want to hug every character.” ―Lindsay Smith

“Made me smile so hard.” ―Looking on the Side of Wonder

“This book appealed to my inner nerd in many, many ways, to the point where I became so engrossed that I ignored all things going on in RL and kept my nose in this book until the ending… It’s a feel-good, endearing and mostly fluffy rom-com that I would love to see made into a movie. We need more books like this.” ―My Fiction Nook

“A realistic fiction piece that should enjoy broad appeal, particularly among younger teens. The central characters are complex and their stories compelling. Dialogue is believable and entertaining. Both male and female readers should find Keil’s book a satisfying read.” ―VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates)

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Best Fiction for Young Adults ―Young Adult Library Services Association, 2014

Parents’ Choice Silver Honor Award ―Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2013

Kansas State Reading Circle Recommended Reading List (Senior High) ―Kansas National Education Association, 2014

Rhode Island Teen Book Award (Nominee) ―School Librarians of Rhode Island, Rhode Island Library Association, 2015

Melissa Keil, born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, studied cinema and anthropology and has spent time as a high school teacher, Middle-Eastern tour guide, waitress, and IT help-desk person. She now works as a children’s book editor, and spends her free time watching YouTube and geek TV. You can visit her website here.