Marshmallow Martians, Show and Smell

Book One of the “Marshmallow Martians” junior graphic novel series follows Squishy, Snug, Woof and Fuzz (also known as the Marshmallow Martians of Moop) as they discover a mystery box from their favourite planet – Earth. The group’s computerized sidekick G.L.O.W. reveals that within the box is P.E.E.P. (Polite Extraordinary Earth Portal 1000) and introduces it to the group who discuss all the alternative, rude earth portals they could be stuck with. Before jetting off to earth through the portal, P.E.E.P. asks the group to clarify their mission. The Marshmallow Martians are interested in “the best Earth things” to bring back as souvenirs to show everyone on their home planet of Moop. When G.L.O.W. searches “Earth Show”, the poor “intergalactic Wi-Fi” results in a partial answer of “Show and _ell”. The group play a modified game of hangman, guessing what the missing letters could be. Eventually, Fuzz doubtfully suggests that perhaps the full phrase might be “Show and Smell”.

The group delightedly thrill at this suggestion and request P.E.E.P. deliver them to the smelliest smells of Earth (including cheeses, earthling burps and butt toots, skunks and onions to name a few). G.L.O.W.’s online research confirms that many, if not all, of these smells are concentrated in one place on Earth, and that is an amusement park. Equipped with “high-tech smell suckers”, the team heads to the amusement park, immediately encountering many of the coveted smells. One by one, the team captures the smells of: shoes, onions, earthling burps, and skunks. With smells in tow, the Martians return to Moop and share their Show and Smell with their friends and family.

Deanna Kent’s dialogue is short and simple, making it easy for younger readers to follow the narrative. While some plot elements could stand to be explained or explained better (for example what G.L.O.W. stands for or the origin of the Marshmallow Martians), the overall story is one of silly, smelly fun that younger readers can enjoy. Neil Hooson’s comic style complements this aim with rounded panels, a largely pastel colour palette and friendly large-eyed characters. A page following the ending of the story that gives step-by-step instructions on how to draw the character Snug is a sweet addition.