Dear Friend,

Hey. How’s it going? I can’t believe how long it’s been since I embarked into outer space. At least, it feels pretty long. I think there might be a time difference on the planet I’m visiting, but it’s too soon to tell. Or maybe not—I really don’t know how long I’ve been here. I just know it’s been a long time.

The planet I’m on is called Htrae (pronounced eh-tray). That’s Earth spelled backwards if you couldn’t tell. And to be honest, almost everything on the planet is backwards. For example, the planet’s land mass is equivalent to Earth’s water mass and the water mass equivalent to Earth’s land mass. It gets colder closer to the equator and warmer the farther you get from it. Also, I’m pretty sure animals can talk.

I’m currently staying at a resort on an island in the Naebbirac (pronounced nay-burr-ack). It’s actually quite beautiful, but very cold. Snow tends to fall lightly during the day, but never sticks. I guess that’s a good thing, since I don’t have to lug my way through piles of it. I love how the snow falls and when it touches your tongue, it tastes like vanilla ice cream. That’s another weird thing about this planet. Everything in nature has a flavor. The trees taste like fresh mint and the bark tastes like milk chocolate.

The people here are pretty nice too, but tend to be on the quiet side. You know how I mentioned before that animals can talk here? Well, I think the people can’t. Maybe that’s why the concierge growled at me when I checked in…

I think the craziest part of it all is that this planet is way behind us in terms of advancement. I remember taking my iPhone out in the dining hall during breakfast, and everyone eyeing it curiously. They couldn’t believe I had this small object that contained internet, television, books, and so much more. Now they all want one. Who knows, maybe if I stay here a little longer I could develop iPhone’s for them and become a billionaire. But since iPhones are trademarked, I probably should change the name. How about eNohpi (pronounced e-no-pee)? I feel like that would be a suitable name.

For the most part, I’m having a great time on Htrae. There’s still so much to see, despite how long I’ve been here. I just checked my phone, and it says it is September 6, 2116. Wait…that can’t be right? Has it really been that long? Are you even still alive? Err…hopefully someone will see this letter.
Sincerely, Cherie

—By Cherie L., 17, Queens, New York ♦