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The Experiment

The Experiment

by Rebecca Stead

Format
Paperback
Category
Children
Publisher
Penguin Random House
Publish Date
September 2025

From the beloved author of The Lost Library and When You Reach Me, this fast-paced coming-of-age story is ideal for any kid who's ever felt like the odd one out.

Nathan never understood what was 'fun' about secrets, probably because he's always had to keep a very big one, even from his best friend, Victor. Although he appears to be a typical grade-six kid, Nathan learned at an early age that his family is from another planet, and he's part of an experiment to work out how to behave like a human and blend in. But the experiment suddenly seems to be going wrong. Some of the other experimenters, including Nathan's first crush, Izzy, are disappearing without a word.

After his family is called back to the mothership, Nathan begins to question everything he's been taught to believe about who he is and why he's on Earth. Can he, Victor and Izzy uncover the truth?

The Experiment is a fast-paced adventure-with aliens-that asks universal questions about how we figure out who we want to be, whether it's ever too late to change, and the importance of friendship.

PRAISE FOR REBECCA STEAD-

'A page-turner with striking characters and a satisfying puzzle at its heart.' Kirkus on The Lost Library

'The Lost Library was probably one of the best books I've ever read...It was amazing and I didn't want it to end.' Audrey, Year 5, Shelftalkers

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