Rover and Speck: This Planet Rocks! by Jonathan Roth
Published by Kids Can Press on October 4, 2022
ISBN: 1525305662
Pages: 104
Genres: Adventure, Humor, Science Fiction
Format: Graphic Novel
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This graphic novel, the first of a new series by the author of “Beep and Bob,” is quite enjoyable even for those who are usually not fans of graphic novels. Rover is, well, a rover, who crash lands on a planet. His antenna is broken (it humorously takes the appearance of a tail), so he has no way to communicate with his ship. He rescues a robot, Speck, whom he finds a little annoying but allows him to accompany him to explore this new planet. When they make their first big discovery, their only mission is to escape from the rock creatures that are chasing them! The easily understandable and colorful illustrations accompany a fast-moving plot, humorous moments, and endearing characters. There is even thought-provoking philosophy: “How do we know we haven’t discovered it yet, if we haven’t discovered it yet?” The asides in boxes throughout the story contain science facts. End matter includes a draw-your-own-rover activity and an overview of some real-life rovers. With its popular topic, clever wit, and accessible science, this series promises to be a hit with readers in grades 2-5.

Reviewed by Barb Rehmeyer, Liberty Library