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Synopsis
The Secret City, hidden high in a mountain range, harbors a handful of aliens stranded on Earth, waiting for rescue and running out of time. Over years of increasing poverty, an exodus to the human world has become their only chance for survival. The aliens are gradually assimilating, not as a discrete culture, but rather as a source of cheap labor. But the sudden arrival of ill-prepared rescuers will touch off divided loyalties, violent displacement, and star-crossed love. As unlikely human allies are pitted against xenophobic aliens, the stage is set for a final standoff at the Secret City.
Is The Secret City appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
The Secret City explores themes of xenophobia, displacement, and cultural survival through the lens of stranded aliens. Violence occurs in the final standoff but is not graphic; romance is star-crossed and fade-to-black.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, mild sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include xenophobia, violence, and displacement (see the full list above).
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Teens will connect with the themes of identity, belonging, and standing up against prejudice in this thought-provoking alien survival story.