ALIEN SUMMER

A young Black girl and her three friends set out to protect Area 51.

Vivian Harlow is a 12-year-old on summer vacation—her last one before entering a STEM magnet school. Her mother is the director of future technology at the famed Area 51. While many people consider it a must-see tourist destination, Vivian is more interested in spending time with her closest friends, Charlotte and Ray, who are White, and (hopefully) her crush, Elijah, who is Latinx. So Area 51 is the last place Viv wants to be for Take Your Kids to Work Day. At least Charlotte, Ray, and Elijah are there too, shadowing their own parents. Initially, the facility seems perfectly ordinary, contrary to all the rumors and conspiracy theories. That is, until a group of aliens breaks out of their quarters, seemingly bent on revenge after being confined and having something important taken from them. The adults put up a fight, but they are soon bested, and it is up to the four young people to save everyone. As the other kids look to her for leadership, Viv fears she is not up to the task. Murray and Smith begin this story in the middle of a high-stakes scene that sets the stage for an action-packed adventure tale filled with humor and charm. Viv and her companions are sure to win over audiences as they try to survive and turn the tide on this alien invasion.

An exciting series opener.