Book Review
Title: Dear Earthling: Cosmic Correspondent
Author: Pen Avey
Genre: MG/Sci-Fi
Rating: ****
Review: All I knew about Dear Earthling beforehand is it is about an alien boy writing to a boy on Earth about many different things but there might be more to it than that. We are introduced to Dethbert Jones who lives on the planet Crank, who has joined the Space Cadets which is like Scouts and in order to earn his Cosmic Correspondent badge he needs to find a pen pal from another planet. I was a little disappointed to see that there are no characters from Earth but rather the book is Dethbert’s replies to the Earthling’s letters, but we don’t get to see those. I supposed it is designed for you to insert yourself into the Earthling’s place. We also learn about how Dethbert’s planet Crank is very similar to Earth although they are more advanced, this is clear since Dethbert’s best friend is a Robert called Andi Social.
Through Dethbert’s communications with the Earthling, they teach each other about everything from food to school lessons, to sports and games, and even public holidays like Christmas. While the letters are interesting, I really think two characters interacting might have been better but apart from that Dethbert is just like any other ten-year-old boy he hates school, love video games, and sports. However, Dethbert does deal with some more adult issues like girls, responsibility, and bullying, making this novel realistic despite its intergalactic setting.
As we learn more and more about like on Crank and Dethbert’s life, in particular, I did find myself laughing at his antics as it reminded me of my own family growing up. It was interesting to see that the Earthling sent Dethbert a book about wizards at a wizard school which I am almost sure is Harry Potter even if it isn’t named so a book mentioned within a book. When Dethbert and Andi go to Space Camp it was really interesting especially after their crash their shuttle and meet a many-clawed beastie called Albert who agrees to help them get back. This was interesting as many-clawed beasties are believed to be monstrous creatures that eat you when actually they are very nice.
In the end, I really enjoy Dethbert’s adventures and that he got a happy ending after all that he went through. However, while I did enjoy this, I don’t think I will continue with the series as I enjoyed this installment as a standalone entry.
Buy it here:
Paperback/Hardcover: amazon.co.uk amazon.com
Kindle Edition: amazon.co.uk amazon.com
I received this review copy from NetGalley
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