1. I liked this. It was inconsequential, but epically funny to tie in Animorphs with more "believe" alien lore. I won't say I've seen aliens, or that I really believe anyone who's told me they have, but I see no reason to feel it's impossible. Just like people, I'm sure a good number of aliens are jerks, but I'd like to think they'd come here looking to learn and explore, though there's every likelihood they'd come to destroy, enslave and/or eat
2. Partly true. Once it makes CNN I'd probably believe it, though I know that's a bad instinct. Depending on the evidence an individual provided, I'd probably be weary. Cassie morphing would be interesting, but I'd insist it was a hoax unless I was allowed to do it. Space-craft: till I'm allowed inside and it flys, space-toilet: don't think I'd ever buy it. However the government merely showing these things I'd probably believe: they have accountability individuals don't, so while I don't think it's wise to blindly trust authority, I'd probably take them at their word if they said the had....space toilet.
3. Greatest. Thing. Ever. No, actually terribly lame, but so funny. So, so funny.
4. Have to wonder why this doesn't come up more/before. While I still find it objectionable, I think most species in this series would find it more acceptable. Not horses. Apparently fine enough for spying, but the body is not conducive to tool use. Monkey or something. I have to wonder if controlling a sub-sentient could steer their intellectual development, either direction. In any event, lot of opportunity there.
5. Not an equestrian type of guy, but when you think about it they are impressive. Sizable, fast, strong, I can see it being liberating, and must admit, in body alone they have many qualities of a respectable athlete. Do not want to give up depth perception while running though. Personally I'm more skiddish than horses I've met, but if that's instinct or domestication, from either party is up to debate. Her pulling out that finish I think is bull. Athlete's train their whole lives to get not just their bodies, but minds in condition to compete at the highest levels. Cassie's never been an athlete, to think she could just will herself to hold out in high level competition is almost insulting to me. She must have a lot of will, but I just don't think it's transferable to new circumstances like that.
6. Against animals; interesting, really interesting, but better or not, probably would have some biased in competition. But against other morphed humans: whole new sport right there. Game on, money down.
7. You can't have a character in a mixed narrator series only harp on about ethics. Very soon the series is going to make the shift from hope to the terror of war theme, but that's not been decided on yet. So you can't just make this character a downer, completely undoes the hope thing.
8. Getting away from authority they- read, Marco-are pro. I'd find a way to slip the captain a note. Don't see the harm, and who knows, maybe they'd make good of it. Astronauts need quality plumbing too. Maybe more than most.