The Night the Stars Went Out

What if you had the most important job in the universe? Well, for Alien, that’s true, as it’s his job to make sure the stars shine. When the stars go out one day, it’s up to Alien to set things right. And the only way to do that is to journey to Earth. But what Alien finds there changes his life forever.

The Night the Stars Went Out is immensely cute, presenting a dutiful little alien protagonist who is as loyal as he is adorable. (Especially when in disguise with that mustache. I’m a sucker for a costume mustache, what can I say?)

The art is brilliant and engaging, allowing for Dr. Seussian touches of the unfamiliar without delving into unnecessary silliness. It feels right, and the nightscapes for the stars are wonderful.

The only part of the book that gives me pause is the message. Honestly, it feels a little mixed. On one hand, responsibility is important, but then, so is having fun, and it’s only when Alien shirks his responsibilities, admittedly for a good cause, that things are restored. I don’t know, maybe I’m reading too much into it.

The Night the Stars Went Out is vivid and super-cute.