Abstract

Aliens From Outer Space is a novel project interested in telling a young, queer story about finding family in small-town Appalachia. In this book, Science Fiction tropes and imagery are used as allegories for otherness, neurodivergency and social estrangement. Using Appalachian extraterrestrial urban legends as a framework for worldbuilding, Aliens From Outer Space recounts the story of Twig, a teenager abandoned by their mother at the home of their estranged Uncle Indrid, and the imposter who decides to go to great lengths to bring Twig's family back together. This book is a character-driven narrative that examines the intricacies of the relationship and intersectionalities between the neurodivergent and queer communities, using extraterrestrial life as a source of metaphor. This book also aims to subvert the stereotype of stories set in Appalachia as being barren and grueling, and uses humor to punctuate emotional poignancy. No darkness can exist without light. Aliens From Outer Space is a book about blood family, found family, growing up fast, and leaving dear things behind you.

Notes

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Graduation Date

2022

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Poissant, David

Degree

Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)

College

College of Arts and Humanities

Department

English

Degree Program

Creative Writing

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

CFE0008965; DP0026298

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0026298

Language

English

Release Date

May 2027

Length of Campus-only Access

5 years

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Campus-only Access)

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Restricted to the UCF community until May 2027; it will then be open access.

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