QUEST-TERRESTRIALS

The Quest-terrestrials return in this picture-book sequel, sharing good news about what humans are doing to save their own planet.

When the adorable titular aliens return to Earth, they discover that “the planet is drowning in garbage,” much to the dismay of sea creatures and mermaids. However, the “Q-ts” soon find out that humans are working on solutions, and author/illustrator Król (Quest-terrestrials, 2018) reveals real-world initiatives that are making a difference in the amount of trash. The aliens discover sculptures made from old flip-flop shoes in Kenya, recycled musical instruments in Paraguay, “newspapers rolled into logs” that ease the burden on the forests of Norway, and roads made out of recycled tires in Canada, among other efforts. Of course, the Q-ts have their own solution to garbage: eating it. Król’s aliens have the same lovable sense of humor that they did in the first installment, and their silly antics, including moose-riding in Canada, are sure to keep readers giggling while they learn about cool environmental initiatives. The author’s soft-edged, cartoonish digital paintings are also full of funny details. Adults may wish Król had added a list of the locations and projects depicted in the book, however.

An inspirational, environmentally minded tale of delightful, colorful aliens.