Colonization: Down to Earth    by Harry Turtledove Order:  USA  Can Del Rey, 2001 (2000) Hardcover, Paperback Read an Excerpt     Reviewed by Wesley Williamson Colonization: Down to Earth is the second book in Turtledove's alternate history series about the invasion and colonization of a Mid-Second World War Earth by a reptilian egg-laying race, the Lizards. This episode in the long-running series takes place with alien colonists settling on the planet in the 1960's. In some ways the use of historical characters adds to the authenticity of the political maneuvering, but these scenes go on for far too long, becoming tedious and delaying the action. An interesting development is the comparison between the rearing of the lizards by humans and a human girl by the lizards, but the full development of this concept will have to wait for the next volume. Down to Earth features complex politico-military shenanigans, with a very large cast of characters both alien and human. The story is well done with lots of action, but the scope is so broad that it is difficult to relate closely to any of the characters. If this is your first encounter with the series, then start with Worldwar: In the Balance. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more SF books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews