Waste of Space

Waste of Space

book

2019, Children's Books, Science Fiction & Fantasy

WISE
78%

WISE Score

4.8

Amazon

Teen detective solves a poisoning mystery on a moon base—because apparently even space isn't drama-free.

Amazon4.8
Common Sense Media

Where to Read

Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)

Screenwise Verdict

This is solid middle-grade mystery entertainment—nothing groundbreaking, but it does what it sets out to do. The moon base setting gives it more personality than your average whodunit, and Stuart Gibbs knows how to keep pages turning.

The poisoning plot and some bullying/danger elements are present but handled at an appropriate level for the 9+ crowd. It's the third book in a series, so if your kid loved the first two, they'll want this one for closure. If they haven't read the series, start at the beginning.

Not going to change anyone's life, but it's the kind of book that gets kids reading and thinking, which is worth something. The 4.8 Amazon rating tells you what you need to know—kids like it, parents aren't worried, and it's a decent choice for a road trip or rainy afternoon.

Age Fit

Best for ages 9-13, the sweet spot for middle-grade mysteries. Kids who enjoyed the first two books will want the closure. Probably too young for ages 8 and under due to the poisoning plot, and most 14+ readers will have moved on to YA.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
78

Third book in a middle-grade mystery series set on a moon base features a 13-year-old protagonist solving a poisoning case. Models problem-solving and courage, though includes bullying and some characters putting others in danger. Tone is age-appropriate adventure with stakes that feel real without being traumatic. Parent reviews confirm it's suitable for the 9+ crowd with no major emotional concerns.

Imaginative
82

Moon Base Alpha as a setting delivers genuine sci-fi creativity—living on the moon, solving mysteries in a confined space habitat, dealing with the unique challenges of off-world living. The whodunit structure invites readers to puzzle alongside Dash, and the poisoning mystery adds legitimate intrigue. Stuart Gibbs is known for clever plotting that keeps kids engaged and thinking.

Safe
85

Standard middle-grade mystery fare with no graphic content. Common Sense Media parent reviews mention violence (bullies endangering protagonists) and a drugging/poisoning, but it's handled at an appropriate level for the target audience. No sexual content, minimal language concerns. The third book in a series means parents already know what they're getting. Books are inherently low-risk for unexpected content.

Enriching
75

Mystery novels build critical thinking and deductive reasoning skills. The moon base setting introduces space science concepts naturally. Problem-solving under pressure and dealing with difficult personalities (like Lars Sjoburg) offer some character development opportunities. However, it's primarily entertainment-focused rather than deeply educational. Strong 4.8 Amazon rating suggests kids find it engaging enough to finish.

Parent Info

Why It Might Be Great

  • Moon base setting is genuinely cool and different from typical mystery locations
  • Mystery structure encourages critical thinking and deduction—kids can play detective alongside Dash
  • Third book wraps up the series, giving closure to fans who've followed the story
  • Stuart Gibbs writes fast-paced plots that keep reluctant readers engaged
  • High Amazon rating (4.8) suggests kids actually enjoy finishing it

What to Watch For

  • Poisoning plot and bullies who endanger others—handled appropriately but present
  • Really should read books 1-2 first or you'll be lost on characters and context
  • Some tense moments where Dash becomes a target himself

Conversation Starters

  • "If you were stuck on a moon base with a limited number of people, how would you figure out who poisoned someone?"
  • "What do you think would be the hardest part about living on the moon?"
  • "Dash keeps getting pulled into solving crimes—would you want that responsibility or would it be exhausting?"
  • "Lars Sjoburg is described as a 'total pain'—how do you deal with difficult people you can't avoid?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic