An extra credit project of analysing marmot scat unexpectedly becomes interesting when Terri and her community college zoology teacher, known as Professor Siderai, discover three strange beings living in the Mark Ward State Park. Although ape-like in appearance, it’s clear to the pair that the three creatures, whom Terri nicknames Moe, Larry, and Conan, are a completely unknown and intelligent species. Terri and Siderai’s important zoological discovery takes an astonishing turn when they return to establish contact and Moe leads them to a space ship hidden in the forest. The three aliens, from a race known as Inhabitors, need help. Their ship is almost out of fuel and is in danger of exploding as its internal containment fields deteriorate. The refueling base is somewhere on Earth, and Terri is their strongest hope of finding it.

Readler approaches the subject of alien visitors from a unique perspective as Terri and Siderai draw on their knowledge to understand the Inhabitors. This allows for several fascinating discussions on convergent evolution and complex social structures as the basis of intelligence. Sarcasm and wit abound in Terri and Siderai’s conversations, adding entertainment to the intellectual discourse. The twist of fate that affords Terri the knowledge and means to locate the refueling station is believable, while the journey involved in the search convincingly escalates the stakes and introduces new conflict in the form of another, more domineering alien species. Eaters and Overlords leaves a lasting impression through Readler’s coupling of an original take on first contact with intelligent dialogue and a layered story.

Eaters and Overlords by Blaine Readler is a science fiction novel that follows a young student named Terri after she makes what appears to be first contact with a sentient, knife-wielding tribe of extraterrestrials who resemble anthropoids. This occurs while trying to get extra credit for her zoology project (so she won't end up with a B-grade, which she views as failing). Along with her friend Siderai, Terry forms something of a bond with the three aliens, whom they've named Conan, Larry, and Moe. When it turns out that these are not the only extraterrestrials that have made their way to earth in search of Terri's refugee companions, a quest for extra credit might just lead to a bulls-eye on the faces of Terri and the entire planet.

Eaters and Overlords is written with a tight and witty narrative that is instantly entertaining. "The thing was so small, so innocent. It meant no harm. It just wanted to learn about them. How did she know that? You don’t question whether a chipmunk is dangerous—it’s just . . . obvious." The pacing is perfect and, as the plot thickens, Readler proves that her hand at creative dialogue is equally skilled when it comes to description. Conan, Larry, and Moe all seem to come alive, and Terry is such an amusing protagonist that she's easy to root for from the onset. I would absolutely recommend this book to readers who enjoy classic science fiction with a decent helping of humor.