Lights on Wonder Rock by David Litchfield
Published by Clarion Books on September 8, 2020
ISBN: 0358359538
Pages: 40
Genres: Science Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads

Each night, Heather sits at a place called Wonder Rock. She shines her flashlight up to the sky in the hopes that aliens will see her and take her to live among the stars. When it finally happens, she makes a wonderful new alien friend, but she also sees that her family misses her greatly. She continues to visit Wonder Rock throughout her life, again hoping to see her alien friend again. Will they return for Heather? Will she decide to stay with the aliens or embrace the love and adventure she already has on Earth?

This is an interesting story with breathtaking illustrations. The color and imagery throughout really make the book. The story is ok, but some younger, sensitive readers may be scared by the notion that aliens are going to come take them away. The message of appreciating what is in front of you is a good one, it just isn’t presented in the best way. Without the wonderful illustrations, this book would get 3 stars from this reviewer. Recommended for readers 3 and up (who aren’t super sensitive).

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME