Starred review from August 15, 2014
Newly recruited Intergalactic Security Force deputy Archie Morningstar prepares for his first mission as co-pilot and navigator aboard his father's space taxi. When Pockets, a fellow agent who just happens to be a talking cat, gets the call to investigate a mysterious weather situation on the planet Nautilus, the three fire up the taxi and blast off. However, since Nautilus is a water planet, they will need to make a pit stop at Akbar's Floating Rest Stop to modify their taxi, pick up some new gadgets and scarf down some bagels. Archie quickly learns that extraterrestrials come in all forms. On Nautilus, those who live under the sea or above water all look decidedly fishy. Unfortunately, something is happening to all the water, putting both civilizations in danger. Archie and his fellow deputies quickly discover that the evil organization B.U.R.P. is to blame-and it is up to them to thwart their plans. With wacky adventure, imaginative settings and wildly varied ETs, this series has endless potential. Archie's sense of wonder and dedication to his newfound responsibility are inspirational. Line drawings and a trio of science facts further enhance this enjoyable interstellar romp. Its likable hero is just one reason to love this intergalactic space adventure. (Adventure. 6-9)
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October 1, 2014
Gr 2-4-Eight-year-old Archie Morningstar and his dad join Pockets, an agent of the Intergalactic Security Force posing as an ordinary cat, on another crucial mission in space. This time, the trio is dispatched to Nautilus, a planet where most of the inhabitants live underwater. Before setting off, they will need to modify their space taxi to function as a submarine. Once on Nautilus, the team must discover why the water on the planet is suddenly disappearing. If they can't figure out the mystery and reverse the effects, the aliens on the planet won't be able to survive. The humor, introduction to a new alien world, and fast, energetic pacing will keep readers of this early chapter book series engaged. Archie's first-person present-tense narration puts readers right with him as he meets new creatures and has exciting experiences alongside Pockets and his dad. Science concepts related to the story, such as cloud formation and magnetite, are explained at the end. Those looking for a fast-paced, out-of-this-world adventure will want to hail the space taxi for a ride.-Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL
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