The Search for Our Cosmic Neighbors
by Chloe Savage; illus. by the author
Primary    Candlewick    40 pp.
9/25    9781536247497    $18.99
e-book ed.  9781536248753    $18.99

Savage’s exquisitely illustrated speculative sci-fi picture book shifts focus from the Arctic Ocean in her previous work (The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish, rev. 5/23) to deep space, depicting a group of Earth scientists hoping to “answer the greatest question of our universe: Are we alone?” Already ten years into their journey, the dejected Star Drifter crew have yet to discover any signs of life. After agreeing to “try one last planet,” they land in yet another seemingly lifeless landscape; however, comical glimpses of extraterrestrial life are revealed to the reader and the crew’s lovable dog, Khan. The omniscient narration humorously clashes with what is shown on the page—particularly during a scene where Khan is showered with attention and gifts by bright-yellow creatures as the oblivious crew packs up their gear. Eventually, contact is made, and interspecies attempts to communicate, share culture, and explore the others’ homes result in the astronauts’ deep admiration for the space creatures’ happy existence. Savage’s fluid ink and watercolor depictions of swirling celestial bodies in vibrant green, purple, black, and pink are arresting and atmospheric. Creative bio-tech designs, detailed spacecraft crosscuts, and imaginative extraterrestrial flora and fauna warrant careful inspection. An inventive, aspirational, and (perhaps overly) optimistic projection of futuristic space exploration and cosmic connections.

From the November/December 2025 issue of The Horn Book Magazine.