I particularly liked how the storyline was directed to the audience in the alien's point of view, therefore allowing the students to immerse themselves more deeply into the story. I believe this picture book would be appropriate for lower key stage two (Year two and three), however possibly those who are less able in Year 4. I liked how this text was supported by illustration and imagery to show the storyline and characterisation. The book is beautifully illustrated and communicates effectively the ideas of travel and a great journey. The trees, the wildlife and particularly the human boy all baffle him. This story is about an alien who comes to Earth and is puzzled and confused about the things he encounters. Lovely to maintain the sense of mystery and wonder around aliens whilst still opening a window into what they could be thinking.Īllows children to explore imagery and maybe wonder what will happenĪllows children to analyse and infer characterisation! In telling the story through the eyes of the alien, without showing what form it takes, it leaves the reader open to making their mind up about just who was driving the UFO. I loved seeing the visit being told from the perspective of the alien, and alternative to a human’s reaction to life landing on the planet. Perhaps there is an important lesson to be learned with regards to our outlook upon and treatment of those that are new to us.

It would be interesting to discuss how they each approach someone different, is welcoming rather than being afraid. An interesting parallel is drawn between these colours, so strongly connected to the uncertainty and strangeness that humans attribute to other planets/universes, and the atmosphere generated when the alien encounters the Earth.Īfter encountering a child, the alien strikes up a refreshing friendship and each shows the other around their home. Drawing back to those classic deep, dark and almost inky colours that are often associated with space. I really enjoyed the sense of otherness built in the depiction of the planet. A mistaken turn on the Milky Way leads a UFO to encounter a strange planet… planet Earth! Here, the Earth is explored in all of its beauty, with Kitamura’s wide, rolling illustrated landscapes unveiling the sublimity and immensity of our world.

UFO Diary by Satoshi Kitamura