Kathy Hoopmann
Of Mice and Aliens
Children’s Fiction
The sequel to Blue Bottle Mystery, this is a science fiction novel for kids, with a difference. Ben is learning to cope with his newly diagnosed Asperger Syndrome, but when an alien crash-lands in his back yard, things really get complicated. The alien, Zeke, knows nothing about Earth’s rules and norms and it is up to Ben and his friend Andy to help Zeke survive. The humorous parallels between the alien’s inability to relate to humans and Ben’s own idiosyncrasies highlight the difficulties Aspie kids face every day.
Of Mice and Aliens is not just another kids’ book. As well as being a delightful read for anyone who loves adventure, it is a valuable teaching tool that demystifies children with Asperger’s, justifying their individuality as valid and interesting.
PEEK INSIDE
Why I wrote it…
Often people with Asperger’s describe themselves as feeling like they are on the wrong planet. No one really makes sense to them. I took that thought and had a real alien land in Ben’s back yard. I mean, who hasn’t dreamt of something exciting like that happening to them! And a shape-shifter alien, no less. I also wanted to show how many people with Asperger’s get into all sorts of trouble by appearing to be disobedient when really they simply did not understand instructions. With a little bit of understanding and patience, those in authority can make life so much easier for Aspies.
Awards and Recognition
2002
Of Mice and Aliens
Jessica Kingsley Publications, UK 2002
- Dolly Gray Children’s Literature Award, UK: Shortlisted
Reviews
“It isn’t easy trying to keep child with Asperger’s Syndrome attention. However, this book managed to do just that. My son is 9 years old and although he loves to read a variety of non fiction books, fictional ones seem to elude his interest. He actually looked forward to reading a chapter a day, and even asked if there was another book available like this one he could read. Kudos to Kathy Hoopmann on a wonderful story.”
Amazon Review
“This book was a really good book about a boy with Asperger’s and an Asperger’s adventure. I am a 10 year old boy with Asperger’s and this was a great book with a great title. It was kind of an adventure and a mystery. I think parents with kids with Asperger’s should read these 2 books, because they help explain how a kid with Asperger’s thinks.”