A Field Guide to Aliens is Johan Olander’s follow up to A Field Guide to Monsters. Populated with reader pleasing grotesque alien life forms, the author/illustrator assembles a humorous, tongue-in-cheek study of the alien world. Illustrated to appear like a notebook (stained by coffee and augmented with taped-in photographs and hand-written annotations), this “field guide” organizes its notes into the following categories presented on two-page spreads for each alien species: Name in Native Language, Origin, Diet, Distinguishing Features, Alien Sightings on Earth, Technology. Some of the vocabulary could be challenging at times for the book’s intended audience (8-12). In addition, Olander provides some social commentary that may also be a bit above kids’ heads; however, parents may appreciate the snarky humor. These references are not overwhelming, occurring infrequently enough not to frustrate the book’s intended audience. The book received an enthusiastic, “Where can I buy this?” from my male, fourth grade co-reviewer (Thanks for the help, Brett!). 61 pages Ages 8-11
Contributed by Kate Stehman, Librarian