Hello, Universe — Content Guide for Parents
Themes present
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Content themes
Factual summary of themes present in this book. No opinion — just the facts.
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
Winner of the Newbery Medal
“A charming, intriguingly plotted novel.”—Washington Post
Newbery Medalist Erin Entrada Kelly’s Hello, Universe is a funny and poignant neighborhood story about unexpected friendships.
Told from four intertwining points of view—two boys and two girls—the novel celebrates bravery, being different, and finding your inner bayani (hero). “Readers will be instantly engrossed in this relatable neighborhood adventure and its eclectic cast of misfits.”—Booklist
In one day, four lives weave together in unexpected ways. Virgil Salinas is shy and kindhearted and feels out of place in his crazy-about-sports family. Valencia Somerset, who is deaf, is smart, brave, and secretly lonely, and she loves everything about nature. Kaori Tanaka is a self-proclaimed psychic, whose little sister, Gen, is always following her around. And Chet Bullens wishes the weird kids would just stop being so different so he can concentrate on basketball.
They aren’t friends, at least not until Chet pulls a prank that traps Virgil and his pet guinea pig at the bottom of a well. This disaster leads Kaori, Gen, and Valencia on an epic quest to find missing Virgil. Through luck, smarts, bravery, and a little help from the universe, a rescue is performed, a bully is put in his place, and friendship blooms.
The acclaimed and award-winning author of Blackbird Fly and The Land of Forgotten Girls writes with an authentic, humorous, and irresistible tween voice that will appeal to fans of Thanhha Lai and Rita Williams-Garcia.
“Readers across the board will flock to this book that has something for nearly everyone—humor, bullying, self-acceptance, cross-generational relationships, and a smartly fateful ending.”—School Library Journal
Frequently asked questions
Is Hello, Universe appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book includes elements of bullying, with a character named Chet using derogatory language towards others. Additionally, there are Filipino folktales referenced that involve children being eaten by animals, which may be frightening for sensitive readers. The book contains elements that could be frightening for younger readers, particularly the Filipino folktales about children being eaten by animals and a character's recurring nightmares that involve isolation and fear.
Does Hello, Universe have violence?
The book includes elements of bullying, with a character named Chet using derogatory language towards others. Additionally, there are Filipino folktales referenced that involve children being eaten by animals, which may be frightening for sensitive readers.
Does Hello, Universe have scary content?
The book contains elements that could be frightening for younger readers, particularly the Filipino folktales about children being eaten by animals and a character's recurring nightmares that involve isolation and fear.
Does Hello, Universe have religious themes?
No religious content in the book itself. The search results discuss the book's themes of friendship and courage, but do not mention any specific religious practices or beliefs.
Does Hello, Universe have racial/cultural content?
The book features a diverse cast of characters, including a Filipino American protagonist, and addresses themes of discrimination and friendship across different backgrounds. The narrative emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting differences.
Does Hello, Universe have profanity?
The book includes the use of derogatory terms such as 'retard' and 'deafo' as part of the bullying depicted, which reflects the hurtful nature of such language. The author acknowledges this choice to portray realistic dialogue.
Does Hello, Universe have climate change?
No climate themes are present in the book. The narrative centers on personal relationships and individual challenges rather than environmental issues.
Does Hello, Universe have sexual identity?
No sexual content is present in the book. The narrative focuses on friendship and personal growth among children, without any romantic or sexual themes.
Does Hello, Universe have gender roles?
While the book features both male and female characters, it does not actively discuss or critique gender roles. The narrative focuses on friendship and personal growth rather than specific gender dynamics.
Does Hello, Universe have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes are explicitly mentioned in the book's narrative. The search results reference general discussions about diverse representation but do not provide specific content related to LGBTQ+ themes in 'Hello, Universe'.
