Your Alien

by Tammi Sauer

One day, you'll be looking out your window when something wonderful comes your way… and you will want to keep him.
 
When a little boy meets a stranded alien child, the two instantly strike up a fabulous friendship. They go to school, explore the neighborhood, and have lots of fun. But at bedtime, the alien suddenly grows very, very sad. Can the boy figure out what his new buddy needs most of all? This funny, heartwarming story proves that friends and family are the most important things in the universe . . . no matter who or where you are.

An NPR Best Book of 2015

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Friendship, Aliens, Family, Science Fiction, Storytime

42 pages, Hardcover

First published August 4, 2015

About the author

Tammi Sauer is the author of Cowboy Camp (Sterling, 2005), Chicken Dance (Sterling, 2009), Mostly Monsterly (Paula Wiseman/S&S, 2010), the forthcoming Princess-in-Training (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt), and something that's currently Top Secret.

Tammi and her family live in Oklahoma with one dog, two geckos, and a tank full of random fish.

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

MEEP! OOG!

New friends and adventures land our way when a cute, little, huggable, green alien crashes outside the window. Readers become fast friends with this little guy as he explores food, school, and more. Shadows, kites, and water fountains will make readers of all ages smile. I’m an alien fan, so I was smitten at the cover!

This adorable out of this world read about friendship and family will have readers searching the skies and hugging Mom and Dad.

Recommended.

[Jessica McKendry]

Such a cute book about finding friendship, family, and letting go. Loved it!

[Ricki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This charming story hooked me from the very first page. Books are rarely written in second person point-of-view, and I am always intrigued by this stylistic choice. I'd love to have students write their own stories in the second person point-of-view. This would offer valuable discussions about the power of POV and why authors might intentionally use this in their writing. Beyond considering the point-of-view, I also enjoyed thinking about the several, implicit themes. This is a story about friendship and about family. However, it is also a story about homesickness. I can imagine that this would be a great story for kids to read when they go off to camp. Teachers might also read this book to a class if students are considering keeping a wild animal, which may be missing its natural home and a habitat. While the main character wants to keep the alien, it has a different home. I suspect that teachers and parents can find a variety of clever ways to integrate this book into their units. The illustrations are captivating, and I suspect that students will fall in love with the story.

[Janee Trasler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucky me, I got to read this book in its early stages! Out of this world goodness!

[Abigail · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little boy is delighted when an alien crash-lands near his house in this picture-book, taking the extraterrestrial home with him. Bringing this new friend along to school, the boy enjoys seeing his familiar world in a new light. But when they're home again, and it's time for bed, the boy realizes that his alien needs something very specific... his own parents!

A sweet little science-fiction story for the younger picture-book set, Your Alien features an engaging tale from author Tammi Sauer and appealing artwork for illustrator Goro Fujita. I was reminded, while reading it, of Alexis Deacon's Beegu , which also features a young alien stranded on earth, waiting for his parents to fetch him. Such a comparison is high praise indeed! Recommended to young alien lovers, and to anyone searching for picture-books about extraterrestrials, making new friends, and the importance of home and family.

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

A simple and charming children’s book that looks like a professional art portfolio with how gorgeous the color work is. The story is nothing special and it’s clearly for a very younger audience, but I like how the artist put extra work into all the interactions.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Told in the most hopeful second person with a lot of heart.

[Jillian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet and charming story with simple sentences and delightful illustrations.

[Kareena · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have a hard time with books written in 2nd person and this one is no exception. The story was fine, but it didn't need to be told in 2nd person.

[MarinaLawliett · Rating 3 out of 5]

Haciendo tiempo en la biblio. Qué cosa más bonita de estilo!! 💕

[Kellee Moye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review at: http://www.unleashingreaders.com/?p=7117

I love the little boy and the alien in this book! They are both so cute and sweet. I was impressed with the story which is much deeper than it looks, and the illustrations are so full and colorful. Like Ricki, I am completely intrigued by the point-of-view of the book. The second person point-of-view really makes the reader become invested in the story. I’ve only read novels in second person, so this is a wonderful addition to the picture book world. In addition to the themes Ricki discussed, I think it is also a discussion about sometimes not being able to keep/get everything you want and sometimes you have to say good bye to those you love. The book also has a perfect plot arc with an easy to discuss conflict and resolution. Would be a good introduction to this element of narratives as well as characterization and point of view. This book is going to be a read aloud favorite and is going to start a lot of important discussions.

[Margaret]

Thirty-three years ago in June a film releases redefining the boundaries of friendship. Left behind by members of a botany team, an extraterrestrial forms a unique connection with a ten-year-old boy. Since that time, it's safe to say the motion picture has reached classic status for several reasons.

It's one thing to befriend another gal or guy, a furry family pal, or one of nature's critters who happens to cross paths with you but it's a rarity to have an opportunity to become best buddies with a being from outer space. Your Alien (Sterling Children's Books, August 4, 2015) written by Tammi Sauer with illustrations by Goro Fujita explores one of life's most often asked questions. We all wonder if there is life on other planets.

My full recommendation: http://librariansquest.blogspot.com/2...

[Cecelia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tammi Sauer’s Your Alien is a story written in the second person, featuring the adventures of a boy who finds an alien one night, adopts it and takes it everywhere, even to school. In the end, the alien gets lonely, and the boy must find a way to make things right. The story has strong themes of familial love and the comfort of a hug (for all). It’s very funny in parts, and just short enough that the second person narration didn’t lose its effectiveness. Goro Fujita’s illustrations are vibrant and both complement and elevate the text. They have a little bit of a film magic quality to them, so young ones will be reminded of their favorite movies featuring creatures from outer space. Your Alien is perfect bedtime reading, especially for the 3-6 year old set and anyone who enjoyed E.T. as a kid.

[Carrie Charley Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh...I am in love with this book! The emotional ties between the boy and the alien in this story are "awww" inspiring and it didn't take long for my heart to well up with admiration for their friendship. A true sense of childhood wonder fills this alien character and the interplay between illustration and text is out of this world. You will not be told a story, but instead feel like you are part of the "what if" in this second person experience. What if...a cute little alien crash-landed outside your window? Everyone deserves love and kindness. You'll come full circle and leave off with a warm feeling of family security as YOUR ALIEN brings you home, too.

[Juliana Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Someday you’ll be looking your window when… This is the story of a boy who sees a baby alien crash land in his yard. He adopts the alien and takes him to school. The alien loves school and everyone loves the alien. After school, the boy sees things from a new perspective. But when it comes time to say good-night, the boy realizes that the alien is homesick. So he turns on every light in the house (and lots more outside) so that the baby alien’s parents can find him. The alien reunion is ‘out of this world’ but the boy is feeling a little lonely… when something wonderful happens.
http://julianaleewriter.com/books-ali...

[Mary English · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! A Science Fiction text for young elementary students! This fun story emphasizes the importance of friendships and empathy, regardless of our differences. The second-person point of view offers an interesting writing style similar to that of Laura Numeroff and the "If you give a Mouse a Cookie" series. This provides a great opportunity for teachers to use "Your Alien" as a mentor text for writing in different points of view. It's also a fun style to read aloud to students!

If you enjoyed "Your Alien," be sure to check out "Your Alien Returns," Tammi Sauer's charming sequel to this story.

[Sandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Imagine having your own alien as a new friend, think of the adventures you could have! All the fun and your parents wouldn't mind since after all who believes in aliens? But what happens when your alien starts to feel sad? What can you do to make him feel better? Is there something missing in his life you wonder? Sometimes the simplest answers are the right ones. A sweet look at the close bonds between families, I definitely recommend this.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the author is Tammi Sauer (GINNY LOUISE, COWBOY CAMP, CHICKEN DANCE), I knew to expect a solid story. And YOUR ALIEN lives up to its hype. Its cinematographic art is whoa-out-of-this-world. YOUR ALIEN is a touching, universal story of family, home, and friendship that crosses borders (or in this case, worlds). A hit in our house, YOUR ALIEN is thoroughly endearing and makes me want a plush alien of my own. Perfect for fans of Ame Dyckman's BOY + BOT.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

You will find the book "Your Alien" on a library shelf near you. You will think the illustrations are adorable. You will be intrigued by its second person narrative style. You will want to check it out of the library and read it immediately. You will not want to return it, but you will return it because you know other children will love this adorable tale about a boy, an alien, a friendship. You will be right. :)

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meep! An adorable story about a boy who looked out his window and saw an alien who quickly became his friend. His alien encourages him to look at the world very differently and they have loads of fun until night falls and the alien misses his family. A popular author plus ridiculously cute drawing with a splash of feels that will hit kids and parents alike equals success.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

What happens when an alien comes to live with you? A young boy discovers an alien and the two of them have some sweet and tame adventures -- going to school, playing outside, and exploring the playground. When the alien becomes sad, the boy realizes he needs to help his cute green friend find his family. A sweet bedtime story for younger readers.

[Nancy Kotkin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story: 3 stars
Illustrations: 3 stars

Personally I'm not a fan of second-person storytelling, especially not when it's really a first-person substitute. Other than that, this story is cute. Modern-looking digital illustrations, while not my personal favorite, fit well with the book's interstellar motif. But the photo-shopped bunny looks oddly fake and is looking the wrong way.

[Pj Gaumond · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is for my youngest great-nephew and I just know he's going to love it. The story is amazing and a great teaching medium. The illustrations are beautiful and inspiring. I received this book as a gift from the author through Goodreads. Thank you for an amazing book.

[Melissa Flanagin · Rating 4 out of 5]

so cute!!!! Reminded me of If You Give a Mouse a Cookie

[Peacegal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great illustrations! Brings to mind a Pixar short.

[Kim Norman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story that's equal parts funny and heart-tugging and luminous illustrations that truly are out of this world. What's not to love?!

[Michele Knott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heart warming story that will elicit a few laughs from the reader.
Gorgeous illustrations that will catch the reader's eye.

[Gigi · Rating 3 out of 5]

For young fans of the "If You Give Mouse a Cookie" books.

[Wendy Kuzma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute book. The format reminds me of If You Give A Moose A Muffin. Only with aliens. ;)This would be a good evening storytime or bedtime read aloud.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great bedtime / family book!