Dalmartian by Lucy Ruth Cummins

 Three green-spotted and green-eared white dogs investigate a yard one dark summer night. When they return to their space ship in a hurry, one is left behind. Stephen, a white boy with brown hair invites the "guest" in and the two begin to negotiate their new relationship. Stephen expects certain things of his dog-shaped visitor, but his new friend is very firm in standing his ground, especially when it comes to doing his "business" out in the park!

When the guest's friends return to pick him up, he goes with them, but then realizes he misses his new home and his new friend and returns, much to Stephen's delight. This is a simple story, with understated illustrations in Cummins' simple style, but charming nonetheless. There are some thoughtful parallels to be drawn between Stephen's expectations and judging by appearances - although the guest looks like a dog, he very clearly is not one - as well as the humor of new dog owners figuring out who is in charge! I'm a little disappointed Cummins chose to give the dog-alien he/him pronouns, one would think an alien wouldn't necessarily stick to a gender binary.

Verdict: Cummins' work has a timeless, classic feel and this is a gently humorous story that will make a fun addition to outer space and dog storytimes.

ISBN: 9781665911955; Published May 2024 by Atheneum; Galley provided by publisher; Purchased for the library