Shh! It’s a Secret

Following the success of his Hugo-nominated essay collection, Jar-Jar Binks Must Die, film critic Kimmel makes his novel debut with this madcap comedy about aliens in Hollywood. Jake Berman is an executive publicist for Graham Studios, a mid-level movie studio known for its family-friendly fare. Its newest release is overshadowed by the arrival of the Brogardi, blue-skinned humanoid aliens eager to establish diplomatic relations with Earth. When Abi Gezunt comes to Graham intending to be the first Brogardi featured in an Earth film, Jake is assigned to wrangle the studio’s newest star while keeping the production secret from the Hollywood gossip mill. Hijinks, culture clashes, and confusion ensue as the production gets underway. While some of the humor feels forced and Kimmel’s Hollywood is constructed from clichés and well-worn tropes, there’s still plenty to like in this freewheeling, laugh-out-loud satire of the movie industry. Agent: Alison J. Picard, Alison J. Picard Agency. (Jan.)