Invader from Mars: The Truth About Babies
on Goodreads (39)
What’s inside...
A hilarious new sibling story that ends with an out-of-this-world twist, for fans of Wolfie the Bunny. One afternoon, Micah comes home to find trouble taped to the refrigerator door. His parents claim it’s a picture of his soon-to-be baby sister, but Micah is sure it’s a Martian. When the baby arrives, his parents insist that she’s perfectly precious―but Micah’s no fool. He knows Martians do not come in peace. But in a laugh-out-loud Show-and-Share day at school, Micah learns how special a baby sister can really be.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think babies might be thinking when they look around at the world?
How do you think families change when a new baby arrives? What new responsibilities might everyone have?
Why do you think the author chose to compare babies to invaders from Mars? What are some similarities and differences?
Can you imagine what life is like from a baby's perspective? What would be the most exciting part?
How can we show love and care to babies, even though they don't speak yet?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use humor and creativity when discussing the book's unique perspective on babies, and encourage your child to do the same.
Relate the discussion to personal stories or family experiences with babies to make the conversation more meaningful.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about babies, whether they're curious, excited, or even a little worried.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to keep the dialogue flowing and to delve deeper into their thoughts and feelings.
Focus on building empathy by discussing how everyone, even babies, has unique needs and feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story portrays babies as mysterious invaders from Mars, which helps children see things from the perspective of a baby who is new to the world.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more patient and empathetic towards younger siblings or peers, recognizing that everyone is at a different stage of learning and development.
Example Lesson: Family Bonding
Explanation: The book uses humor and shared experiences to highlight the loving but sometimes perplexing interactions within a family when a new baby arrives.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to value family time and understand the importance of supporting family members through changes.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: By characterizing babies as 'aliens,' the book creatively teaches that despite apparent differences, everyone has a unique place in the world.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing diversity among their peers and learning to appreciate what makes each person special.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: As the characters in the book explore the habits and needs of the 'baby alien,' it celebrates curiosity and the joy of discovering new things.
Real-World Application: This lesson inspires children to ask questions and seek out knowledge in all areas of their lives, fostering a lifelong love of learning.