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Little Green Man: a novel
An INSTANT #1 New Release!“I’m not going to parties or practicing underage drinking. I’m not sneaking out to see my secret boyfriend. I’m literally searching for aliens.”
Meet seventeen-year-old Birdie Buckley. She’s an alien enthusiast from a small town in Colorado called Mount Pifork, a miserable place where everyone knows everyone, anything that deviates from the norm is looked down upon and, to top it off, there may or may not be aliens lurking. At least, that’s what Birdie thinks.
Ever since she was young, she has been searching for proof that humans are not alone in the universe—and so far, that research has not taken her very far. Until, one night she captures her boldest piece of evidence yet. This sends her on a spiraling journey that opens up a million harrowing questions, because she may not be the only one aware of the anomaly.
Joining forces with Sol, the mysterious new boy at her high school and the one person who shares her interests, Birdie looks deeper into bizarre occurrences, her community's hidden history, and even a strange observatory on the outskirts of town that she swears was never there before. The more she investigates, the more her findings begin to make sense and the more the truth becomes clear—and that truth may be her dream come true, or her biggest fall from grace.
Perfect for fans of E.T. and the X-Files, Little Green Man takes readers on an eccentric investigation that challenges the definition of alien and explores the overshadowed side of the high school experience.
Meet seventeen-year-old Birdie Buckley. She’s an alien enthusiast from a small town in Colorado called Mount Pifork, a miserable place where everyone knows everyone, anything that deviates from the norm is looked down upon and, to top it off, there may or may not be aliens lurking. At least, that’s what Birdie thinks.
Ever since she was young, she has been searching for proof that humans are not alone in the universe—and so far, that research has not taken her very far. Until, one night she captures her boldest piece of evidence yet. This sends her on a spiraling journey that opens up a million harrowing questions, because she may not be the only one aware of the anomaly.
Joining forces with Sol, the mysterious new boy at her high school and the one person who shares her interests, Birdie looks deeper into bizarre occurrences, her community's hidden history, and even a strange observatory on the outskirts of town that she swears was never there before. The more she investigates, the more her findings begin to make sense and the more the truth becomes clear—and that truth may be her dream come true, or her biggest fall from grace.
Perfect for fans of E.T. and the X-Files, Little Green Man takes readers on an eccentric investigation that challenges the definition of alien and explores the overshadowed side of the high school experience.
Unknown Binding
Published January 1, 2023
58 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Shanti Hershenson
36 books264 followersShanti Hershenson’s first two novellas were published when she was in the sixth grade, although her writing journey started long before then. Ever since she could hold a pencil, marker, or crayon, she was creating stories. They started from pictures, mere scribbles, and eventually, turned into captivating tales.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 8, 2024
this is my first ARC!! so happy to given the chance to read this book.
i really liked the premise of the novel—a town with a mystery and an alien enthusiast main character who is determined to find out the truth. i really liked birdie character—i liked her thought process and how she expressed uncertainty and fascination with her research. i liked sol’s character too but i wish we could have learned more about his past.
that being said, i love how this book was unique and i was intrigued at times. usually, im good at guessing the plot twist in novels but i was completely oblivious for this one. i liked that the book was left open minded, but there could have been a little more to be said about certain origins and possible futures for birdie and the other characters. also, im 17 and i would probably give this book an age rating of 13-15.
other notes
-i loved the relationship between birdie and her mom! it was so well put together and i liked seeing their tension and communication balancing out.
-i liked how the plot of aliens fit into the story. the science behind it was stereotypical and fascinating in its own unique way.
-personally i think someone should have killed ethan at some point in the story (the aliens or birdie or sol, i don’t care just kill him off)
-side characters (especially the adults) had strong and meaningful personalities.
i’m sorry this is so long but overall: good scenery, descriptions, and dialogue. especially as this book is written by a young author, i’m decently pleased by the format and writing. (and to the author: you are so talented and i can tell how writing is such a big passion of yours)
3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️ .5
i really liked the premise of the novel—a town with a mystery and an alien enthusiast main character who is determined to find out the truth. i really liked birdie character—i liked her thought process and how she expressed uncertainty and fascination with her research. i liked sol’s character too but i wish we could have learned more about his past.
that being said, i love how this book was unique and i was intrigued at times. usually, im good at guessing the plot twist in novels but i was completely oblivious for this one. i liked that the book was left open minded, but there could have been a little more to be said about certain origins and possible futures for birdie and the other characters. also, im 17 and i would probably give this book an age rating of 13-15.
other notes
-i loved the relationship between birdie and her mom! it was so well put together and i liked seeing their tension and communication balancing out.
-i liked how the plot of aliens fit into the story. the science behind it was stereotypical and fascinating in its own unique way.
-personally i think someone should have killed ethan at some point in the story (the aliens or birdie or sol, i don’t care just kill him off)
-side characters (especially the adults) had strong and meaningful personalities.
i’m sorry this is so long but overall: good scenery, descriptions, and dialogue. especially as this book is written by a young author, i’m decently pleased by the format and writing. (and to the author: you are so talented and i can tell how writing is such a big passion of yours)
3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️ .5
April 2, 2024
Studying Aliens . . .
Birdie Buckley is 17-years-old and is convinced that aliens exist and are living somewhere in her small town. She has always been searching for proof of that. And then she discovers something that may make it all real!
Sol, a new guy at her high school who just moved in a week ago, is also interested in aliens. Birdie is curious about an observatory outside of town that she had never seen there before. Has she been right all this time? Is she ready to find the proof of that? Or will the government try to keep everything a secret? Does she find her little green man from space? And can she and Sol save the alien?
This is a super strange story. I didn’t particularly like it in general, but I had already correctly guessed some of how it might end, so that was fun.
Birdie Buckley is 17-years-old and is convinced that aliens exist and are living somewhere in her small town. She has always been searching for proof of that. And then she discovers something that may make it all real!
Sol, a new guy at her high school who just moved in a week ago, is also interested in aliens. Birdie is curious about an observatory outside of town that she had never seen there before. Has she been right all this time? Is she ready to find the proof of that? Or will the government try to keep everything a secret? Does she find her little green man from space? And can she and Sol save the alien?
This is a super strange story. I didn’t particularly like it in general, but I had already correctly guessed some of how it might end, so that was fun.
March 29, 2024
I got this book as an ARC and I’m very happy to have read it!
This book was a lot of fun to read, it’s just a story about a girl who wanted to see if aliens were real: and it was just so interesting!
I loved the writing style, and I loved the main character!
This book was a lot of fun to read, it’s just a story about a girl who wanted to see if aliens were real: and it was just so interesting!
I loved the writing style, and I loved the main character!
April 23, 2024
There goes another Shanti Henderson book that I'm obsessed with. Usually books are just a time killer for me, but Little Green Man was so much more than that from just the first chapter. I love the writing style and the mixed media elements and I hope to see more books like LGM out there someday
October 16, 2024
In Little Green Man, author Shanti Hershensen transports readers to the small, conventional town of Mount Pifork, Colorado, where seventeen-year-old Birdie Buckley feels stifled by the town's rigid norms. Birdie craves adventure, but in a place where individuality is unwelcome, finding it seems impossible. Yet, her curiosity is piqued when she begins to suspect something strange—perhaps even extraterrestrial—lurking in her town. With the help of Sol, the intriguing new arrival at her high school, Birdie embarks on a quest to uncover the mysteries surrounding a recently appeared observatory on the town's outskirts. What they discover changes everything, leaving Birdie questioning whether normalcy might be preferable after all.
Drawing comparisons to the eerie intrigue of shows like The X-Files, Hershensen crafts a teen-centered narrative that explores the timeless theme of searching for one’s place in the world. Though the idea of seeking proof of alien life isn't new, the novel taps into this well-worn concept with a fresh twist, intertwining it with the relatable struggles of adolescence. Birdie's journey is driven not just by her search for extraterrestrial life, but by her deeper, more personal quest to belong. In her high school, she feels torn between wanting to fit in with her peers and resenting them for their dull conformity. This internal conflict fuels her determination to uncover something extraordinary. Perhaps, if she doesn’t belong on Earth, her destiny lies among beings as alien as she sometimes feels herself to be. Grounding the story is Birdie’s evolving relationship with Sol. Their bond provides a heartwarming reminder that connection can be found in the most unexpected places. As Birdie searches for the unusual and mysterious, her life becomes increasingly complex, even without the discovery of any actual “little green men.” The turbulence of adolescence, with its inherent challenges, mirrors the very strangeness she longs for. Yet, Birdie remains blind to the fact that growing up is an adventure all on its own, full of twists and uncertainties she never anticipated.
Little Green Man offers a clever and engaging literary escape driven by a spirited protagonist and a plot full of surprises. Hershensen’s story is not just about extraterrestrial mysteries but about the equally baffling journey of self-discovery in the midst of teenage life. With its suspenseful twists and thoughtful exploration of identity, this book will keep readers hooked and thinking long after the final page.
Drawing comparisons to the eerie intrigue of shows like The X-Files, Hershensen crafts a teen-centered narrative that explores the timeless theme of searching for one’s place in the world. Though the idea of seeking proof of alien life isn't new, the novel taps into this well-worn concept with a fresh twist, intertwining it with the relatable struggles of adolescence. Birdie's journey is driven not just by her search for extraterrestrial life, but by her deeper, more personal quest to belong. In her high school, she feels torn between wanting to fit in with her peers and resenting them for their dull conformity. This internal conflict fuels her determination to uncover something extraordinary. Perhaps, if she doesn’t belong on Earth, her destiny lies among beings as alien as she sometimes feels herself to be. Grounding the story is Birdie’s evolving relationship with Sol. Their bond provides a heartwarming reminder that connection can be found in the most unexpected places. As Birdie searches for the unusual and mysterious, her life becomes increasingly complex, even without the discovery of any actual “little green men.” The turbulence of adolescence, with its inherent challenges, mirrors the very strangeness she longs for. Yet, Birdie remains blind to the fact that growing up is an adventure all on its own, full of twists and uncertainties she never anticipated.
Little Green Man offers a clever and engaging literary escape driven by a spirited protagonist and a plot full of surprises. Hershensen’s story is not just about extraterrestrial mysteries but about the equally baffling journey of self-discovery in the midst of teenage life. With its suspenseful twists and thoughtful exploration of identity, this book will keep readers hooked and thinking long after the final page.
April 22, 2024
As an unexperienced ARC reader, I was thrilled to recieve the opportunity to read Shanti Hershenson's Little Green Man and went into this experience somewhat blindly. The reward made it completely worth it!
Little Green Man was an amazing read. From start to finish, Shanti's ability to make the reader feel like they were living within the pages was enchanting. I became enraptured with Birdie Buckley's quest to solve the mystery of aliens and found myself rooting for her as if I were on the journey, too. Birdie is an excellently quirky main character whose unabashed self-expression and passion for her interests—however criticized by her schoolmates and fellow Mount Pifork residents—was inspiring. She is one of those characters that saying goodbye to once you reach that final page is alike to leaving behind a friend.
Shanti's writing style, eloquent and colourful yet satisfyingly simplistic, allowed me to inhale this book in a few days. Little Green Man is a book that you can cuddle up with on rainy days and a cup of coffee and be set for hours. If you need a good Sunday read, this is the book for you!
Little Green Man is a twisty, thrilling tale of discovery and confidence in one's beliefs, and I'm entirely grateful for the chance to have read it. My only criticism is that it wasn't longer.
Little Green Man was an amazing read. From start to finish, Shanti's ability to make the reader feel like they were living within the pages was enchanting. I became enraptured with Birdie Buckley's quest to solve the mystery of aliens and found myself rooting for her as if I were on the journey, too. Birdie is an excellently quirky main character whose unabashed self-expression and passion for her interests—however criticized by her schoolmates and fellow Mount Pifork residents—was inspiring. She is one of those characters that saying goodbye to once you reach that final page is alike to leaving behind a friend.
Shanti's writing style, eloquent and colourful yet satisfyingly simplistic, allowed me to inhale this book in a few days. Little Green Man is a book that you can cuddle up with on rainy days and a cup of coffee and be set for hours. If you need a good Sunday read, this is the book for you!
Little Green Man is a twisty, thrilling tale of discovery and confidence in one's beliefs, and I'm entirely grateful for the chance to have read it. My only criticism is that it wasn't longer.
February 7, 2025
I am rating this one 4.5⭐️ - this author was 14 when she wrote this book and I am in shock! The writing is so descriptive and articulate that I imagined the writer to be much more mature in years. What an absolutely incredible feat to be a published and award winning author at such a young age!
This book is not my usual speed. This is a YA, SciFi story that tells the story of an awkward teen Birdie and her obsession with Aliens in her home town. The intelligent girl who was bullied by peers and unsupported by even her teachers and friends, investigated her beliefs regardless. What she found was literally out of this world. I was definitely picking up all the clues Shanti was leaving for us to find about Sol but I kept second guessing myself 😅👏 the suspense was driving me to the end.
This really was a wonderful book and I recommend this to anyone who enjoys some SciFi and alien conspiracy theories or investigations. Lovers of the X files, maybe ET and even some American Dad feels (without the weird dad) with the little green man!
This book is not my usual speed. This is a YA, SciFi story that tells the story of an awkward teen Birdie and her obsession with Aliens in her home town. The intelligent girl who was bullied by peers and unsupported by even her teachers and friends, investigated her beliefs regardless. What she found was literally out of this world. I was definitely picking up all the clues Shanti was leaving for us to find about Sol but I kept second guessing myself 😅👏 the suspense was driving me to the end.
This really was a wonderful book and I recommend this to anyone who enjoys some SciFi and alien conspiracy theories or investigations. Lovers of the X files, maybe ET and even some American Dad feels (without the weird dad) with the little green man!
April 19, 2024
So grateful to be able to ARC read for Shanti Hershenson a second time! Little Green Man easily became a comfort read for me, being easy to follow along with but still intriguing.
Hershenson creates relatable characters that are easy to connect with a root for. From start to end I was invested in Birdie and her story.
Little Green Man spins a fun story of aliens and conspiracy theories, while also creating interesting and detailed interpersonal relationships between characters. Every character has something to them that makes you undeniably interested in them. Even side characters have meaningful roles and strong individuality.
The only issue I had was the predictability of the plot, but I really believe that the only reason this was a problem for me was because I'm not the target age audience.
Definitely worth a read, especially for younger children. The book offers strong role models and motivation for its readers, balancing humor with being emotionally complex.
Hershenson creates relatable characters that are easy to connect with a root for. From start to end I was invested in Birdie and her story.
Little Green Man spins a fun story of aliens and conspiracy theories, while also creating interesting and detailed interpersonal relationships between characters. Every character has something to them that makes you undeniably interested in them. Even side characters have meaningful roles and strong individuality.
The only issue I had was the predictability of the plot, but I really believe that the only reason this was a problem for me was because I'm not the target age audience.
Definitely worth a read, especially for younger children. The book offers strong role models and motivation for its readers, balancing humor with being emotionally complex.
April 9, 2024
Little Green Man is such a unique and fun read! The main character, Birdie Buckley, is totally focused on her search for aliens - no matter what it may cost her. I loved how intent she was on finding out the truth, and I also loved her developing friendship with the new kid at school - Sol - who is the only friend who truly supports Birdie's alien obsession. The adventures they get into are surprising and the twists in the book are awesome. The author also painted a very realistic and relatable portrait of Birdie's experience growing up with a single mom who only wants the best for her daughter. Packed with humor and surprising depth, I highly recommend this awesome novel from the talented teenage author, Shanti Hershenson.
June 15, 2024
An amazingly good work
Birdie Buckley leads us on a merry and scary chase for aliens and government conspiracies, eventually finding both. The book is fast-paced with an interesting plot and some great plot twists. The writing is aimed at YA, as is the general story. The writing also needs strong doses of maturity and finesse, often using five words where two would do, a bit more creativity in naming, and some research to strengthen facts. However, when I discovered at the end that this entire novel was written by a 15-year-old author, I was astonished. Shanti Hershenson obviously has a long and fruitful career in front of her, if she also gets some training to polish her writing. The book is well worth reading.
Birdie Buckley leads us on a merry and scary chase for aliens and government conspiracies, eventually finding both. The book is fast-paced with an interesting plot and some great plot twists. The writing is aimed at YA, as is the general story. The writing also needs strong doses of maturity and finesse, often using five words where two would do, a bit more creativity in naming, and some research to strengthen facts. However, when I discovered at the end that this entire novel was written by a 15-year-old author, I was astonished. Shanti Hershenson obviously has a long and fruitful career in front of her, if she also gets some training to polish her writing. The book is well worth reading.
May 14, 2024
I was looking forward to reading this ever since I came across a post about it on Instagram, and I love supporting new authors, but I have to say it was a let down for me. The plot was very basic and predictable, and the ending felt rushed and undeveloped. I think my main issue with it was the events that happened and how unrealistic and unbelievable they were, which again made the book feel underdeveloped. I think the writing could use a little work as well. I know the author of this book is quite young, and I think if they hone their craft they definitely could become a really good writer, and I wish them all the best!
November 9, 2024
I believe
I have always believed in the idea of life out there in other worlds. Perhaps not in Our Milky Way but further out in a Galaxy like it. I am a GOD fearing woman that believes in the existence of Little Green Men. This planet and a large portion of its population is not ready to accept the fact that We are not alone. I watch Ancient Aliens and it's amazing how much the show proves, Aliens helped when the People weren't as intelligent as they are now. Back then, sky gods were common and accepted.
I look forward to the sequel to Little Green Men.
I have always believed in the idea of life out there in other worlds. Perhaps not in Our Milky Way but further out in a Galaxy like it. I am a GOD fearing woman that believes in the existence of Little Green Men. This planet and a large portion of its population is not ready to accept the fact that We are not alone. I watch Ancient Aliens and it's amazing how much the show proves, Aliens helped when the People weren't as intelligent as they are now. Back then, sky gods were common and accepted.
I look forward to the sequel to Little Green Men.
April 16, 2024
Little Green Man by Shanti Hershenson is a thrilling, fast-paced novel about aliens and everything science fiction. This book is for the people who believe in alien controversy theories as well as fans of science fiction movies. I had the pleasure of beta reading Little Green Man, and I'm delighted in having the opportunity to spread the word about this wonderful read.
May 14, 2024
This book was a very thrilling read! The plot was well paced, the characters were interesting, and the mystery of the story kept me turning pages late into the night.
It's hard to believe the author is so young. I'm looking forward to reading more from Shanti Hershenson as she continues to grow and mature as a writer - I think there are some great stories to come!
It's hard to believe the author is so young. I'm looking forward to reading more from Shanti Hershenson as she continues to grow and mature as a writer - I think there are some great stories to come!
May 31, 2024
Great teen sci-fi read!
Little Green Man (The Birdie Buckley Case Book 1) by Shanti Hershenson was a great read! I felt like a young adult or older teen while reading the story that held me glued to the pages of mystery surrounding the town that Birdie lived in and tried to investigate.
Little Green Man (The Birdie Buckley Case Book 1) by Shanti Hershenson was a great read! I felt like a young adult or older teen while reading the story that held me glued to the pages of mystery surrounding the town that Birdie lived in and tried to investigate.
July 14, 2025
The boy with no last name
Fun story with some bizarre but “insanely obvious” twists. Some significant questions go unanswered but as seen from the protagonist’s perspective the answers continue in the government conspiracy. Some violence and bullying so just a “maybe” rating but I could definitely see a sequel and the possibility of a romance.
Fun story with some bizarre but “insanely obvious” twists. Some significant questions go unanswered but as seen from the protagonist’s perspective the answers continue in the government conspiracy. Some violence and bullying so just a “maybe” rating but I could definitely see a sequel and the possibility of a romance.
August 28, 2025
Fabulous for UA and old
I was flabbergasted when I read that Shanties was a teen! Wow ! I'm a voracious reader and try many gen.res, I can't wait to read her again, just imagine how far she'l go.
I was flabbergasted when I read that Shanties was a teen! Wow ! I'm a voracious reader and try many gen.res, I can't wait to read her again, just imagine how far she'l go.
September 8, 2022
This book seems so good! I’m excited! Miss Hershenson writes books so quickly!
July 18, 2024
Great read, great subject matter!!
December 19, 2025
👽ARC Review👽
(4.5 rounded to 5)
Little Green follows Birdie and Sol on an alien investigation full of mysteries, secrets, and a bucket load of emotions. This book did an exceptional job at demonstrating what it feels like to not fit the norm, and to be treated poorly because it. The whole time I couldn’t help but root for Birdie’s unique character, while feeling belonging and relatability within her.
Shanti is not only remarkable at creating characters people can empathize with, but an excellent story teller as well. 90% of this book was read within 2 days as I clutched onto each page with a unshakable need to know what happens next. Each surprise let out a bubble of excitement as I became invested in the mystery and the characters well-being. And don’t even get me started on the adorable And heartwarming romance throughout the story!🤭
The only issues in this book was the lack of closure in the ending. I felt as though there was a lot of build-up, yet some things were still left unresolved. Being said, I believe a sequel could easily fix this issue. The lack of closure at the end didn’t ruin the story for me, and it is still 100% worth the read.
Overall, this story is great for people who love Sci-Fi, unique characters, bullying representation, mystery, and all things in the realm of the unknown🛸
Details I adored:
📚The cozy local bookstore-coffee shop
📓The data and journal entry inserts between chapter
☀️Sol’s black hair with a mysterious white streak
⛰️The setting being in an outdoorsy mountain town
👩 Birdie and her mothers close relationship
(4.5 rounded to 5)
Little Green follows Birdie and Sol on an alien investigation full of mysteries, secrets, and a bucket load of emotions. This book did an exceptional job at demonstrating what it feels like to not fit the norm, and to be treated poorly because it. The whole time I couldn’t help but root for Birdie’s unique character, while feeling belonging and relatability within her.
Shanti is not only remarkable at creating characters people can empathize with, but an excellent story teller as well. 90% of this book was read within 2 days as I clutched onto each page with a unshakable need to know what happens next. Each surprise let out a bubble of excitement as I became invested in the mystery and the characters well-being. And don’t even get me started on the adorable And heartwarming romance throughout the story!🤭
The only issues in this book was the lack of closure in the ending. I felt as though there was a lot of build-up, yet some things were still left unresolved. Being said, I believe a sequel could easily fix this issue. The lack of closure at the end didn’t ruin the story for me, and it is still 100% worth the read.
Overall, this story is great for people who love Sci-Fi, unique characters, bullying representation, mystery, and all things in the realm of the unknown🛸
Details I adored:
📚The cozy local bookstore-coffee shop
📓The data and journal entry inserts between chapter
☀️Sol’s black hair with a mysterious white streak
⛰️The setting being in an outdoorsy mountain town
👩 Birdie and her mothers close relationship
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews