Manos writes convincingly from the alien perspective and the confusion caused by language and cultural differences is often hilarious. The worldbuilding incorporated through Watson, Crick, and Cricket’s relationship dynamics, remarks on lifestyle differences and, in particular, Cricket’s nostalgia and longing for home paints a realistic feel of the otherworldly. Although she often comes across as petulant and rash, Cricket is easy to relate to and her insightful observations never fail to entertain. Tom is a darling and I loved the way Manos incorporated his trauma after having his arm amputated into his personality without allowing this to overshadow other facets of his personality. A Girl Named Cricket is an entertaining and imaginative sci-fi novel from beginning to end. Manos’ blend of humour and compellingly alien beings is a winner.
Reviewed for Reader's Favorite