Earthling!

Gr 3-7–This graphic novel takes the school story into outer space with humor, a bit of action, and a cast of unusual characters. Fish-out-of-water Bud catches the wrong bus and ends up far, far from home at Cosmos Academy, where Earthlings are not welcome. He befriends lime-green alien Gort, who shows him the ropes of the school. Posing as a Tenarian, Bud must figure out how to get back to his home planet while avoiding the wrath of Principal Lepton, a Lanthornoid fearful of Earthlings.The tone of the book stays on the lighter side while still touching on themes of fitting in and fear of the unknown. Bud’s quest to get back to Earth is full of secrecy, adding a splash of tension to the story. The book looks great, with vibrant, full-color artwork rendered in pencil drawings that have been digitally inked and colored. The panel layouts are basic and clear, adding to the inviting package. Fans of UFOs and aliens will enjoy this one. Travis Jonker