That’s right, this thing is still happening. It’s November, which means it’s time for the third book recommendation for Kidlit Adults Will Actually Like.

As someone writing a middle grade sci-fi, it’s a bit odd that this is the first time I’m choosing a book that is, unquestionably, science fiction. The Strangers has some arguable sci-fi elements, but the mysterious happenings in that book are played so mysteriously that it’s never really clear if what’s going on is related to advanced science, a weird kind of magic, or something else entirely.

Orion Lost comes with no such ambiguity. Largely set on a colony ship traveling through space, this is science fiction at its purest. Which is not to say it’s hard sci-fi or that an inordinate amount of time is spent dealing with the mechanics of the science. This is thoroughly character-based and focused on kids having to deal with a very grown up problem while essentially alone in space.

And with main character Beth a 13-year-old, it’s technically not a middle grade book, but lower YA! (There may be some ambiguity on that, but it’s what I’m going with.)

Okay, before I go any further:

Synopsis

Along with a number of other families, 13-year-old Beth boards the colony ship Orion, excited but nervous about the adventure she’s embarking upon. The typical tensions and friendships form between the various kids on board, with Beth particularly butting heads with an older boy who’s the captain’s son and convinced everyone should listen to him because he’s the most experienced. Then things go completely sideways: Beth and a handful of other kids wake up to discover that a mysterious “Unknown Event” has wiped out the adults’ ability to function, leaving the kids suddenly responsible for the ship. Oh, and systems are failing, supplies are limited, and the AI that’s supposed to protect them might not be telling the whole truth. Beth has to navigate leadership, friendship, and survival — while also uncovering what really happened during the event that derailed their mission.

Why Adults Will Actually Like It

• Did someone say stakes? The stakes feel real and overwhelming: a failing colony ship, missing information, and the sense that something isn’t quite right.
• Succinct, thoughtful world-building. It’s tight and surprisingly sophisticated, with classic sci-fi elements used thoughtfully.
• We’ve all been Beth. She’s a grounded, believable protagonist whose leadership challenges feel relatable to any adult who’s ever been thrown into responsibility they weren’t ready for.
• You’ll see it coming… but not all of it. The mystery unfolds with a smooth balance of clues and misdirection. There’s a twist you’ll likely guess early, but also one you probably won’t.
• It’s a page-turner. The pacing is brisk and cinematic — something is always failing, exploding, or unraveling in a way that keeps you hooked.
• Kid-friendly but not simplistic. Yep. It’s that rare book that respects both young readers’ intelligence and adults’ desire for a well-constructed story.

Whether you have a kid who likes space or science fiction or you yourself are just in the mood for a contained, well-written adventure, I can’t recommend Orion Lost enough.

Buy Orion Lost here.

Have you read Orion Lost or other Alastair Chisholm books? Tell me what you thought in the comments.