In his signature quirky style, Russell Ayto takes on plastic pollution with this story about a video game–loving boy named Neo and some unexpected aquatic visitors who need his help. Neo lives next to the ocean, where there’s a big plastic pollution problem. But Neo doesn’t notice. He’s too busy playing his favorite video game, joining forces with all the other Earth-bots to defend the planet against invading aliens. One day, though, Neo’s sea creature neighbors keep interrupting his game, as one after another comes to his door, pleading with him to help them clean up the plastic that’s ruining their home. Finally, to get them to go away, Neo agrees to check it out. And the plastic mess he sees in the ocean shocks him. He suddenly realizes there’s an actual invasion taking place right outside his door — one that’s too big for him to handle on his own! With a refreshing approach to the timely topic of plastic pollution in the world’s oceans, here’s a readable picture book that manages to be offbeat and loads of fun without making light of the issue. Award-winning author-illustrator Russell Ayto’s one-of-a-kind storytelling and hilarious illustrations will keep the pages turning, leading readers to concrete suggestions for how they can help. With its important environmental message and positive themes of teamwork, responsibility and stewardship, this book offers excellent connections to life science, earth science and social science curriculums. K-Gr 3-In this allegorical tale, plastic mess is a problem Neo is keen to ignore in favor of playing Space Cabbages. His only hope of victory is joining forces with Earth-bots to overwhelm the aliens in an onslaught of leafy missiles. Neo's attention cannot be diverted from his game despite the pleas of several ocean-dwelling critters looking for help with the plastic pollution problem. Unfortunately, this title struggles to land in concept and design. The digital illustrations feature some objects and characters that are stylized beyond recognition, and the linear patterning of the plastic bottles is not easily interpreted as pollution. The video game premise feels dated; the parallels Ayto attempts to draw between video game and pollution will not resonate with the modern gamer. VERDICT Though it has the best of intentions, this call-to-arms title doesn't pack the punch it needs to inspire today's youth to take up the cause. An additional purchase for those seeking to bolster their environmental sciences collections.-Sarah Simpson, Westerville P.L., OHα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. ... a refreshing read that inspires kids to focus outward rather than inward and work together to tackle real issues off the screens.― Hakai Magazine ... presents an easy-to-understand narrative concerning a very weighty issue to child readers, delivered with engrossing illustrations.― CM Magazine Russell Ayto has illustrated many picture books, including Whoops! and The Witch's Children series. Among his many honors are a Roald Dahl Funny Prize and two Kate Greenaway Medal nominations. Russell lives in Cornwall, England. Russell Ayto has illustrated many picture books, including Whoops! and The Witch's Children series. Among his many honors are a Roald Dahl Funny Prize and two Kate Greenaway Medal nominations. Russell lives in Cornwall, England.