E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
- Recommended Age: 8–12 years
- Main Characters:
- Elliott – A lonely young boy who discovers and befriends E.T.
- E.T. – A gentle alien stranded on Earth, longing to return home.
- Gertie – Elliott's curious and expressive little sister, played by a young Drew Barrymore.
- Michael – Elliott's older brother who ultimately supports the mission to help E.T.
- Mary – Their single mother, unaware of E.T.'s presence at first.
Summary
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial begins with a spaceship landing secretly in a forest near suburban California. As government agents approach, the crew hurriedly escapes—leaving one alien behind. That alien is E.T., a wrinkly, wide-eyed creature with a glowing finger, a tender heart, and psychic abilities.
He's discovered by Elliott, a lonely 10-year-old boy who lives with his mother and siblings. Elliott hides E.T. in his room, feeds him candy, and slowly builds a bond of trust and friendship. E.T. learns about Earth, while Elliott begins to feel emotionally connected to him, even sharing physical sensations and emotions.
Together with his siblings, Elliott sets out to help E.T. contact his ship using a homemade transmitter and the now-iconic phrase, "E.T. phone home." But government scientists catch up, threatening E.T.'s life. In a breathtaking climax, Elliott and his friends flee on bicycles, with E.T. using his powers to lift them into the sky.
The story ends with a tearful goodbye as E.T. returns home—but not before leaving a lasting imprint on Elliott's heart.
Key Takeaways
- Empathy & Acceptance: True friendship transcends appearance and species.
- Courage in Connection: Elliott stands up to adults and society to protect his friend, showing bravery rooted in compassion.
- Loneliness & Belonging: Both E.T. and Elliott feel isolated, and their connection heals them.
- The Power of Childhood: Kids notice and nurture what adults overlook; this story celebrates the emotional intelligence of children.
Key Moments
- Elliott luring E.T. into the house with a trail of Reese's Pieces.
- E.T. dressing up for Halloween and hiding in plain sight.
- The emotional psychic link—Elliott feeling E.T.'s pain.
- The famous flying bicycle scene across the moon.
- E.T. saying goodbye with: "I'll be right here."
Why It's Perfect for Ages 8–12
This story speaks to kids who are beginning to understand complex emotions—loss, loyalty, separation. Younger kids might find some scenes intense (especially E.T.'s illness), but older children appreciate the layered emotions, deep connections, and quiet strength of Elliott. It's ideal for helping children explore empathy, grief, and the bittersweet beauty of saying goodbye.