Hi From Outer Space – at a glance
The School Reading Lists’ five word review: gentle outlandish friendship (and shoes).
Children’s book title: Hi From Outer Space.
Children’s author: Fiona Katauskas.
Genre: Children’s fiction.
Published by: Allen & Unwin Children’s Books.
ISBN: 9781761069260.
Recommended for children aged: 8-12 year-olds.
First published: Paperback November 2024.
This children’s book is ideal for: a light-hearted fun read.
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Our review:
Meet Hi. He’s an alien. Yes, his name is ‘Hi’ (short for Hieronymus). He has left his home planet, Wendy, for three days to complete an Earth Studies assignment: The Role of Leadership in Human Societies. He is both determined to interview an Earth leader for his studies and desperate to see human shoes in the flesh. Confused yet? Don’t worry – you’ll get used to the ongoing silliness by chapter three.
Alex Lê, on the other hand, overcomes any confusion rather quickly upon meeting an alien while walking her dog. As a budding cartoonist, she is also determined, but for a different reason: to enter the National Young Cartoonist Competition. Alex soon realises that Hi could be the perfect inspiration…
Their meeting sets the timescale for their journey – three days to find Hi’s important interviewee and seven days to complete Alex’s competition entry. This tension simmers in the background as the reader observes their growing friendship. Thanks to lead singer Roxy Vox, Hi and Alex finally experience the interview (and wisdom) they have been looking for.
Our verdict:
Katauskas swaps political cartooning for comical illustrations in this book, with short, manageable chapters for young fans of the paranormal. Full of unpredictability and alliterative wordplay, Alex Lê and Hi are a welcome addition to any KS2 and KS3 bookshelf.
Many thanks to Allen & Unwin Children’s Books for the review copy.
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