58 pages 1 hour read

Erin Entrada Kelly

Hello, Universe

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides that feature detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, quotes, and essay topics.

Introduction

Teacher Introduction

Hello, Universe

  • Genre: Middle Grade Fiction; Contemporary
  • Originally Published: 2017
  • Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 690L; Ages 11-13
  • Structure/Length: Divided into sections; approximately 320 pages;  approximately 5 hours and 17 minutes on audio
  • Protagonist/Central Conflict: Hello, Universe is a middle grade novel that weaves together the lives of four diverse characters: Virgil, a shy boy who feels invisible; Valencia, a deaf girl who wants to be heard; Kaori, a self-proclaimed psychic; and Chet, a bully with a conscience. The central conflict unfolds as Virgil becomes trapped in a well, and his friends, along with the help of Kaori’s psychic abilities, embark on a quest to rescue him. The novel explores themes of friendship, self-identity, empathy, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
  • Potential Sensitivity Issues: Themes of bullying, friendship, and disability; animal abuse/death

Erin Entrada Kelly, Author

  • Bio: Filipino-American author known for her middle-grade novels; tackles themes of identity, friendship, and cultural diversity; celebrated for her ability to create relatable and diverse characters
  • Other Works: You Go First (2018); Lalani of the Distant Sea (2019)
  • Awards: Newbery Medal (2018)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

  • The Hero’s Journey
  • Cosmic Intervention
  • Communication Challenges

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

  • Gain an increased understanding of the social, cultural, and psychological contexts around bullying that incite central conflicts for Virgil and Valencia.

Related Titles

By Erin Entrada Kelly

Plot Summary

logo

Blackbird Fly

Erin Entrada Kelly

Blackbird Fly

Erin Entrada Kelly

Study Guide

logo

Lalani of the Distant Sea

Erin Entrada Kelly

Lalani of the Distant Sea

Erin Entrada Kelly

Study Guide

logo

The First State of Being

Erin Entrada Kelly

The First State of Being

Erin Entrada Kelly

Study Guide

logo

We Dream of Space

Erin Entrada Kelly

We Dream of Space

Erin Entrada Kelly

Study Guide

logo

You Go First

Erin Entrada Kelly

You Go First

Erin Entrada Kelly