Published by Chronicle Books

Summary:  Inspired by her international travels, Sophie Blackall set out to create a book that she could share with kids around the globe.  It’s written as a letter to an alien: “Dear Visitor from Outer Space, If you come to Earth, here’s what you need to know.”  The writer then launches into descriptions of many different aspects of Earth and its inhabitants: the land, the sea, countries and cities, animals, and people: what they wear, what they eat, jobs they do, the differences between kids and adults.  He concludes: “There are lots of things we don’t know. We don’t know where we were before we were born or where we go when we die. But right this minute, we are here together on this beautiful planet. If you come to Earth, you can stay in my room. Love, Quinn.”  Includes an author’s note, telling about the inspiration for the book and the real-life kids who are pictured in it, including Quinn. 80 pages; ages 4-9.

Pros:  Can Sophie Blackall win a third Caldecott medal in five years?  I loved everything about this book, and think kids will enjoy poring over the pages looking at all the details on each spread.

Cons:  At 80 pages, and with the aforementioned detailed pages begging for extra time, this could be tough to do as a read-aloud. 

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