(2) K-3 Hidden Wonders series. Illustrated by Chloe Savage. Savage’s exquisitely illustrated speculative sci-fi picture book shifts focus from the Arctic Ocean in her previous work (The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish, rev. 5/23) to deep space, depicting a group of Earth scientists hoping to “answer the greatest question of our universe: Are we alone?” Already ten years into their ­journey, the dejected Star Drifter crew have yet to discover any signs of life. After agreeing to “try one last planet,” they land in yet another seemingly lifeless landscape; however, comical glimpses of extraterrestrial life are revealed to the reader and the crew’s lovable dog, Khan. The omniscient narration humorously clashes with what is shown on the page—­particularly during a scene where Khan is showered with attention and gifts by bright-yellow creatures as the oblivious crew packs up their gear. Eventually, contact is made, and interspecies attempts to communicate, share culture, and explore the others’ homes result in the astronauts’ deep admiration for the space creatures’ happy existence. Savage’s fluid ink and watercolor depictions of swirling celestial bodies in vibrant green, purple, black, and pink are arresting and atmospheric. Creative bio-tech designs, detailed ­spacecraft crosscuts, and imaginative extraterrestrial flora and fauna warrant careful inspection. An inventive, aspirational, and (perhaps overly) optimistic projection of futuristic space ­exploration and cosmic connections.

Reviewer: Patrick Gall | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2025

(2) K-3 Savage presents a fanciful yet plausibly realistic portrayal of an intrepid group of scientists in search of a creature that "everyone talks about but no one has ever seen: the giant Arctic jellyfish." The jellyfish in question is fictional; however, the documentary-style narration and thoughtful attention to visual details make the exploration feel enticingly real. Exploratory equipment and scientific instruments, along with multiple cutaways of the ship's interior, are consistent and believable throughout Savage's playful ink and watercolor illustrations. The members of the large crew, when unbundled from cold-weather gear, are identifiable by their varying skin tones, hairstyles, and uniquely patterned sweaters. The day-to-day monotony of living on a research vessel (countless tasks and long lines for the bathroom) is offset by moments of natural wonder (a vibrant aurora borealis) and harrowing exploration (encountering a polar bear on an iceberg). A steady flow of double-page spreads depicts scene after Arctic scene from both above and below water, providing readers with glimpses of the elusive giant Arctic jellyfish. Savage's strong command of color, light, and atmosphere shines, allowing the creature's semi-translucent body to both mimic and blend with the frigid environment. This is key, since the giant Arctic jellyfish (depicted with two eyes and expressive body language) remains just out of sight until the story's very end, adding a gentle touch of humor and enhancing this imaginative celebration of curiosity.

Reviewer: Patrick Gall | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2023