Robobots

by Matt Novak

When the Robobots move onto Littlewood Lane, they create controversy with their strange ways, but eventually they convince the neighbors that they are a family worth knowing. By the author of Mouse TV.

Genres: Picture Books, Robots, Childrens, Family

32 pages, Hardcover

First published March 15, 1999

Reviews

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

My 4 year old son loved this book. We named our Kitten mr. Bumpus from the Mr. Bumpus character inside :)

[Kaelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever felt out of place, or even a little strange? If you have I am sure you can relate to the Robobots. Moving into a new town can be scary for anyone but if you look a little different and creak when you walk you may not draw the smiles you want. This is exactly how MOM, DAD, Toggle, and Widget feel. Meeting the new neighbors like the Peebles Family ends with screams and locked doors. Not only do they have a hard time adjusting and making friend in their neighbors hood the town doesn't take to the Robobots wither. DAD looks for a job and no-one takes him and the kids want to learn but the school does not open its doors. They feel out of place all because they have a little robot in them. This science fiction/fantasy book explores how feeling different can happen to everyone - even mechanical robots. Find out how the Robobots adjust to their new surroundings and share their stories with potential new friends by reading this short story!

I found this book when researching science fiction books and thought my students would love this. A few have been obsessed with robots and this is a great way to do a lesson on machines! In the past I have taken texts and had students be "engineers" by using carboard and other materials to create new inventions. This book gives them that outlet but also has an inclusive and kind tone to it, as they read about new machines that have a hard time adjusting to their new town. This could present a fun twist on a larger assignment about creating an entire town that everyone feels welcome in. Students can use the families experience to create their own story, focusing on the inclusivity. There is more advance language in this book so I would say it is best for 2nd graders. After I read it via the internet I ordered it for my library and cant wait for it to come in!

[Lizzy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book out loud to classes of 2nd and 3rd graders. They enjoyed the story and were upset about the way the Robobots were treated by their neighbors. They laughed at the funny talking furniture in their house and the way the Robobots talked to things that weren't alive, like the street lamp.

This book could be an excellent way to introduce a young child to concepts like prejudice and racism. However, it would need to be used in conjunction with other texts specifically about those topics in order for the child to make those connections. This book alone will not do the complex work of dismantling white supremacy.

This book was chosen as part of our robot-themed week, but the message ended up being worthwhile beyond just the robotic characters. This book could be used as the introductory text to a unit (for older students) and/or as a jumping-off point for discussions.

[BlackhamBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I searched this up in Goodreads ... I realized my brain had read "robObots" as "robots" ...

Cute illustrations and a cute story with a good message. The Robobot family moves into a traditional suburban neighborhood, and the humans there aren't quite ready for such a different family. Happily, the humans here are willing to learn and change and become more accepting, finding that they have things in common.

Lots of fun little touches, the Robobots furniture and such also have eyes and "life" and personalities. The Robobots can't quite comprehend that the "human" accessories (lampposts, etc) aren't the same!

[Hannah Knight · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are many themes throughout this booksl. Teachers can ask students who the characters are in the book and if it is okay to cry. This book helps children think.

[Elly M · Rating 5 out of 5]

a classic… no one has and no one will ever do it better

[Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another favorite library book of the moment of my children. Similar to "The Louds Move In," it's a story about a family that doesn't really fit into their neighborhood. A good way to teach about prejudice and understanding for children!

[Graceann Oswald · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Robobots move in and their neighbors are very skeptical of them. It isn't until the neighbors go over to the Robobots house and really get to know them. It taught that even if people are different than you it doesnt mean they are weird or wrong. It's important to be accepting of others

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great, fun story about acceptance and friendship.

[Library-Nar · Rating 3 out of 5]

Robots Storytime
Age: 5 +
Robots, Neighbors, Prejudice, Moving
1999
* Too long for storytime