Bloop

Gr 1-3–Bloop, a bright green, pug-like alien with tiny antennae, must prove himself worthy to rule Planet XYZ by first conquering that crazy planet, Earth. It’s obvious who’s in charge on Earth: the fluffy ones who have servants to throw balls for them and to scoop their poop. Unable to impress the fluffy ones, Bloop attempts to blend in and discovers that he rather enjoys chasing commoners (squirrels) and taking revenge on robots (peeing on fire hydrants). Then the royal guard (dogcatcher) takes away Bloop’s newfound freedom and chauffeurs him to the royal retreat (shelter), from whence he is adopted and truly does become emperor of his domain. Bloop is too dazzled by his new life to leave, and when the tiniest servant overwhelms him with an unfamiliar sensation, love, he decides to stay and defend his throne. Adults may find the tropes of dogs ruling people and love conquering all to be more worn than kids will. The candy-colored illustrations and exaggerated antics of the pop-eyed characters are sure to attract young readers.