Who Would Like This Book:
This book is a total blast for kids (and parents!) who love laugh-out-loud adventures with heart. The energetic art style, diverse characters, and genuine friendships make it a standout, especially for young readers who enjoy comics like Calvin and Hobbes or Big Nate. It’s not just fun - the story also thoughtfully weaves in themes of self-discovery, loyalty, and inclusion, making it relatable for kids who might be searching for where they fit in. Whether your reader is new to graphic novels or already obsessed, they’ll likely fall hard for Hilo’s out-of-this-world charm.
Who May Not Like This Book:
If you’re not a fan of zany humor or the fast-paced style of graphic novels, this one might not be your thing. Some readers have felt it doesn’t quite reach the complexity of other series and the plot can feel a bit light or familiar. Those looking for something super serious or deeply grounded may not connect with Hilo’s whimsical, cartoonish vibe. And if your reader is just getting into books, it might take a little nudge to get them started - but once hooked, they’re in for the long haul.
About:
'The Boy Who Crashed to Earth' in the series 'Hilo' by author Judd Winick follows the story of DJ Kim, an ordinary boy living in a small, boring town until Hilo, a mysterious and powerful boy, crashes into his life from the sky. As strange and ominous events start happening in the town, Hilo's past begins to resurface, revealing his ultimate purpose. is described as a fantastic comic storybook with an energetic and engaging story, well-managed positive messaging, and emotional depth. The art style is whimsical, reminiscent of a mix between Calvin and Hobbes and Codename Kids Next Door.
Judd Winick's writing style is praised for capturing the expressiveness and dynamism of classic cartoon series like Bloom County and Calvin and Hobbes. The diverse characters, including DJ, an Asian American lead, and Gina, an African American girl, are highlighted for introducing themes of diversity, friendship, loyalty, and character in a thoughtful yet unobtrusive manner. is noted for its humor, charm, and heart, providing a light and breezy read that evokes nostalgia for Saturday morning cartoons.
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From The Publisher:
"An action-packed page turner with heart!"-Dav Pilkey, author of DOG MAN
Take off on an action packed adventure with HILO Book 1! Dog Man meets Big Nate in this hilarious New York Times bestselling graphic novel series that kids love!
BOOM! CLANG! CRASH! D.J. and Gina are totally ordinary kids. But Hilo isn't! Hilo just fell out of the sky and doesn't know where he came from, or what he's doing on Earth. (Or why going to school in only your underwear is a BAD idea!) . . . But UH-OH, what if Hilo wasn't the only thing to fall to our planet? Can the trio unlock the secrets of Hilo's past? Can Hilo survive a day at school? Find out in HILO-a laugh-out-loud, epic story of friendship! Adventure! (And the occasionaly mutant space robot).
Here's what people (and robots!) are saying about Hilo!
"More giant robotic ants and people going 'Aaaah!' than in the complete works of Jane Austen"- Neil Gaiman , bestselling author
"Every kid would love a pal like HILO, and every kid will love this book! " - Lincoln Peirce , bestselling author of the Big Nate series
"A perfect book for any kid who ever needed a friend and then had one with superpowers fall from space." - Seth Meyers , actor, comedian and writer
"A story that can be enjoyed by the entire family. "- The New York Times
"A Total BLAST." - Miami Herald
* " A wholeheartedly weird and wonderful tale of friendship, acceptance, and robots."- Kirkus Reviews , Starred Review
* "A must-have."- School Library Journal , Starred Review
* "A must-have." - School Library Journal, Starred Review
"A story that can be enjoyed by the entire family ." - The New York Times
"My students are obsessed with this series. OBSESSED!" -Colby Sharp, teacher, blogger, and co-founder of Nerdy Bookclub
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Reader Stats (4):
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1 comment(s)
Good pacing and art style. Had to ruin it with “humans destroy everything”.
What can you read after
The Boy Who Crashed to Earth?
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