Allen the Alien, by Stephanie M. Ward | Book Review

Book Review of Allen the Alien
The Children’s Book Review

Allen the Alien

Written by Stephanie M. Ward

Illustrated by Aleck Morton

Ages: 4+ | 32 Pages

Publisher: Riveted Press (2024) | ISBN-13: 978-0648492511

What to Expect: Misunderstanding, Acceptance, Humor, and Science-fiction

In Allen the Alien, Stephanie M. Ward and illustrator Aleck Morton deliver a humorous tale that cleverly explores themes of misunderstanding and acceptance of differences.

The story follows Allen, an endearing alien with long, huggable arms, and his pet Byte as they embark on an adventure to Earth. As soon as they land, their well-intentioned visit quickly descends into chaos, as they misinterpret the Earthlings’ reactions as friendliness and an invitation to play. Narrated from Allen’s perspective using simple, straightforward language, Ward’s words contrast delightfully with Morton’s illustrations, which reveal the true pandemonium unfolding around our oblivious extraterrestrial visitors.

The creative combination of words and art sets up a dual narrative approach that layers on the humor and adds depth to the story, encouraging young readers to look beyond the text and engage more deeply with the visual storytelling. The pacing is excellent, with each page turn revealing new misadventures as the well-meaning Allen and Byte interact with various objects, from supersonic horns to X-ray guns, sending young readers into giggling fits.

While the story is primarily driven by humor, it could be used as a conversation starter on deeper themes—the stark contrast between Allen’s friendly intentions and the Earthlings’ terror is a gentle introduction to concepts of xenophobia and the fear of the unknown. The multi-layered approach ensures that it can be enjoyed on different levels—as a simple, funny story for younger children or as a more nuanced exploration of differences for older readers.

The graphic, collage-style, mixed-media illustrations are vibrant, quirky visuals and peppered with informational labels that add an extra layer of interactivity. Morton’s attention to detail and knack for visual humor shine through in scenes like Byte playing fetch—with a dog as the unwitting stick.

Children will readily get swept away in the entertaining chaos of Allen the Alien. With its blend of humor, heart, and subtle social commentary, the book is a delightful journey that will engage their imagination and leave them wanting more.

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About the Author

Stephanie Ward is the author of the children’s books Allen the Alien, Hello Shark, Don’t Laugh Giraffe!, Clownfish Aren’t Funny!, Arabella and the Magic Pencil, and Wally the Warm-Weather Penguin.

After many years in marketing, Stephanie now spends her time writing sweet, silly and sidesplitting stories for children. Too old to blame it on youth, she still hasn’t settled down and spends her spare time traveling. She can currently be found in London, England with her husband and young son.