I'm in need of some kidlit gang expertise. I'm shopping my latest manuscript with various titles (because I can't settle on one), but also prepping in case I go the self-publishing route again (my sales of SZJMB are still very strong and, so far, none of the agents who liked my writing last time have shown any interest in this one).
If I self-publish, I've settled on a title Zack & Zoey's Alien Apocalypse, but with a more descriptive sub-title to help the book get picked up on searches (using words like middle grade, kids, adventure). But here's my concern: Is the word "apocalypse" too difficult for MG readers, especially RR's (think Wimpy kid level here).
I don't mind mixing in a few challenging words in the text, but having one in the title might be a turnoff. I could go with Alien Adventure, Attack, Awesomeness, etc. But none of those work as good as Apocalypse.
What's your take, do you think the title "Alien Apocalypse" will turn off MG readers? Or will they just sound it out and then go, oh cool.
Any feedback is welcome.