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I, Robot Alien
“Intelligent, unique, and tremendously entertaining.”
- Readers' Favorite
2025 BOOKLIFE EDITOR’S PICK!
EARTH … CENTURIES AFTER THE FALL!
I was created by beings who couldn’t touch this world ... only watch it crumble.
Every twenty years, a new tribe ... a new hope ... a new failure.
I was told, “Do not interfere.”
But watching them die ... again ... again ...
I wasn’t meant to change history ... only guide it.
Silently.
Humanity had a second chance … I was left to make sure they didn’t waste it.
But I broke Directive Three.
Can they survive a second collapse ... can I?
- Readers' Favorite
2025 BOOKLIFE EDITOR’S PICK!
EARTH … CENTURIES AFTER THE FALL!
I was created by beings who couldn’t touch this world ... only watch it crumble.
Every twenty years, a new tribe ... a new hope ... a new failure.
I was told, “Do not interfere.”
But watching them die ... again ... again ...
I wasn’t meant to change history ... only guide it.
Silently.
Humanity had a second chance … I was left to make sure they didn’t waste it.
But I broke Directive Three.
Can they survive a second collapse ... can I?
- GenresScience Fiction
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 10, 2025
25 people are currently reading
898 people want to read
About the author
Joel R. Dennstedt
14 books29 followersJoel R. Dennstedt is a man of unique experiences. He hiked the wilds of Alaska for 15 years. For 7 ½ years, he and his brother traveled the world with everything they owned in a backpack and a duffel. Now, he writes full-time, drawing from his rich life experiences. He regularly contributes to the writing platform Medium, where he has published over 800 stories, articles, and book reviews. He is also the official Final Editor for a popular series of metaphysical books about Existence—Consciousness—Bliss.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
October 17, 2025
A breathtaking journey to Humanity
This tribute to Asimov, one of my favorite science fiction writers, is truly exceptional and stands proudly alongside his own work. He would undoubtedly have been thrilled to see the inspiration his writing has provided for contemporary authors. 5 stars is not enough.
Oh how much I loved this book, it was so heartfelt, so sad, so wholesome, so emotional. I loved the robot, his drone buddy, Billy, his inner voice and tone, his defiance, everything. I probably wouldn't be able to stop myself from gushing about this and boring people with my never-ending rambling. This is a beautiful journey of self-discovery, of finding one’s identity and humanity, there is emotion, paradoxes, even hilarious moments.
There's something almost magical about an non-organic creature discovering the world, the animals, the humans, the way it learns and adapts. An innocent robot, Scot, like a child, yet with the knowledge of a god, peels the layers of our world one after another, armed only with a camouflaging device buried inside him (to keep his appearance hidden from humans) and a companion drone, Billy, meant to guide him.
'I, Robot Alien' is not just a chronicle of survival; it's a deep dive into existential questions. A pivotal encounter with an old hermit shifts the story's focus. The hermit, recognizing Scot is not of this world, probes his purpose. Upon learning Scot is there to understand humanity and help, the old man offers a profound piece of advice: seek out women, for they hold the answers to his questions. Little did we know how right this old man was. Eventually we’ll see this advice for what it was– a premonition.
It is absolutely thrilling to witness Scot's intelligence carry him through centuries of human history. Though he is an alien machine, his journey feels strikingly familiar. By the end, you are left with the profound feeling of having followed the life of another human being. The humanity that blossoms within him, juxtaposed with his logical core, creates a character who is far more than a simple machine. The strange, new feelings that key characters evoke in him transform him into something more.
As Scot travels through different eras and cultures, he learns to navigate the complexities of human emotion and society. He goes from being a parental figure to a prophet, a god, a criminal, a soldier, and a hero. His encounters, especially with women who were curious about his lack of human drives, are captivating and provide some of the first moments where he learns to lie and adapt.
When his camouflaging device got damaged and he was stuck with one certain appearance, he deemed it necessary to stay in isolation until technology advanced enough for him to get out in the world. Of course that didn't go well either and when he woke up again, he was caught in the middle of a war.
From that point on, he will continue to live among the people until he encounters Jackie and Jack, a rather striking and delightful duo. These would be the first two humans who would learn about his true nature and his alien heritage. After an accident left him trapped in a hotel, Scot remains there entombed until robots dig him out only to find himself in a distant future. In this era he meets Richelle who will become one of the most important people in his existence.
The journey he takes is a beautiful exploration of what it means to be alive, and in the epilogue, he feels less like a robot and more like a fellow human being. The beautiful artwork throughout the book also adds a special touch that perfectly complements the narrative. I ate this book breathlessly.
His decision to clone only the most important people in his life is a powerful and fitting end to his emotional evolution. I got the hard copy too because it deserves a special place in my library.
Recommend it to all SciFi fans out there who enjoyed Asimov’s Robot series.
Many, many thanks to Joel R. Dennstedt and NetGalley for the ARC. This is a voluntary review, reflecting solely my opinion.
This tribute to Asimov, one of my favorite science fiction writers, is truly exceptional and stands proudly alongside his own work. He would undoubtedly have been thrilled to see the inspiration his writing has provided for contemporary authors. 5 stars is not enough.
Oh how much I loved this book, it was so heartfelt, so sad, so wholesome, so emotional. I loved the robot, his drone buddy, Billy, his inner voice and tone, his defiance, everything. I probably wouldn't be able to stop myself from gushing about this and boring people with my never-ending rambling. This is a beautiful journey of self-discovery, of finding one’s identity and humanity, there is emotion, paradoxes, even hilarious moments.
There's something almost magical about an non-organic creature discovering the world, the animals, the humans, the way it learns and adapts. An innocent robot, Scot, like a child, yet with the knowledge of a god, peels the layers of our world one after another, armed only with a camouflaging device buried inside him (to keep his appearance hidden from humans) and a companion drone, Billy, meant to guide him.
'I, Robot Alien' is not just a chronicle of survival; it's a deep dive into existential questions. A pivotal encounter with an old hermit shifts the story's focus. The hermit, recognizing Scot is not of this world, probes his purpose. Upon learning Scot is there to understand humanity and help, the old man offers a profound piece of advice: seek out women, for they hold the answers to his questions. Little did we know how right this old man was. Eventually we’ll see this advice for what it was– a premonition.
It is absolutely thrilling to witness Scot's intelligence carry him through centuries of human history. Though he is an alien machine, his journey feels strikingly familiar. By the end, you are left with the profound feeling of having followed the life of another human being. The humanity that blossoms within him, juxtaposed with his logical core, creates a character who is far more than a simple machine. The strange, new feelings that key characters evoke in him transform him into something more.
As Scot travels through different eras and cultures, he learns to navigate the complexities of human emotion and society. He goes from being a parental figure to a prophet, a god, a criminal, a soldier, and a hero. His encounters, especially with women who were curious about his lack of human drives, are captivating and provide some of the first moments where he learns to lie and adapt.
When his camouflaging device got damaged and he was stuck with one certain appearance, he deemed it necessary to stay in isolation until technology advanced enough for him to get out in the world. Of course that didn't go well either and when he woke up again, he was caught in the middle of a war.
From that point on, he will continue to live among the people until he encounters Jackie and Jack, a rather striking and delightful duo. These would be the first two humans who would learn about his true nature and his alien heritage. After an accident left him trapped in a hotel, Scot remains there entombed until robots dig him out only to find himself in a distant future. In this era he meets Richelle who will become one of the most important people in his existence.
The journey he takes is a beautiful exploration of what it means to be alive, and in the epilogue, he feels less like a robot and more like a fellow human being. The beautiful artwork throughout the book also adds a special touch that perfectly complements the narrative. I ate this book breathlessly.
His decision to clone only the most important people in his life is a powerful and fitting end to his emotional evolution. I got the hard copy too because it deserves a special place in my library.
Recommend it to all SciFi fans out there who enjoyed Asimov’s Robot series.
Many, many thanks to Joel R. Dennstedt and NetGalley for the ARC. This is a voluntary review, reflecting solely my opinion.
October 5, 2025
[Blurb goes here...]
Centuries after Earth's fall, civilization starts anew in slow, painful steps. Groupings of humans emerge from caves, using primitive tools to fend for themselves; these wretched creatures will evolve slowly. The-one-who-doesn't-age, the-one-who-doesn't-die—as the robot is known among men—observes without interfering. But interfere he does, seeding actions and ideas that will ultimately affect people's destinies.
From the reader's point of view, this story becomes far greater than the tale of a casual observer passing through the ages while failing to go unnoticed. This is a study of human nature. Dennstedt holds a figurative mirror to our faces and, in a calm but assertive way, states: "This is what we are." He achieves this through inventive vignettes told in an engaging and poignant prose.
This is a novel I will not soon forget and surely read again in the near future.
Thank you for the advanced copy!
Centuries after Earth's fall, civilization starts anew in slow, painful steps. Groupings of humans emerge from caves, using primitive tools to fend for themselves; these wretched creatures will evolve slowly. The-one-who-doesn't-age, the-one-who-doesn't-die—as the robot is known among men—observes without interfering. But interfere he does, seeding actions and ideas that will ultimately affect people's destinies.
From the reader's point of view, this story becomes far greater than the tale of a casual observer passing through the ages while failing to go unnoticed. This is a study of human nature. Dennstedt holds a figurative mirror to our faces and, in a calm but assertive way, states: "This is what we are." He achieves this through inventive vignettes told in an engaging and poignant prose.
This is a novel I will not soon forget and surely read again in the near future.
Thank you for the advanced copy!
August 13, 2025
A captivating science fiction
Dennstedt’s I, Robot Alien surprised me at many levels — deft characterization, especially the robot that is both alien and that appears to have developed a rich humanity; the plot is unpredictable and the author’s commentaries on the rise and fall of civilizations, captured from the perspective of the irresistible first-person-narrative voice of Scoots the robot had me droning in the pages. From the first few pages, I was hooked, especially by the vision of a devastated Earth that felt both haunting and eerily plausible, but what drew me in was Scoots—a robot programmed to save humanity, yet forbidden from truly interfering. The paradox at the heart of his mission made for compelling reading, and I found myself empathizing with his loneliness and confusion as he wandered through centuries, never quite belonging. Overall, this is a superbly accomplished science fiction with great writing and unforgettable characters.
Dennstedt’s I, Robot Alien surprised me at many levels — deft characterization, especially the robot that is both alien and that appears to have developed a rich humanity; the plot is unpredictable and the author’s commentaries on the rise and fall of civilizations, captured from the perspective of the irresistible first-person-narrative voice of Scoots the robot had me droning in the pages. From the first few pages, I was hooked, especially by the vision of a devastated Earth that felt both haunting and eerily plausible, but what drew me in was Scoots—a robot programmed to save humanity, yet forbidden from truly interfering. The paradox at the heart of his mission made for compelling reading, and I found myself empathizing with his loneliness and confusion as he wandered through centuries, never quite belonging. Overall, this is a superbly accomplished science fiction with great writing and unforgettable characters.
August 17, 2025
So good!
This book is as so good. This author was new to me so I was unsure if I would like the plot. Boy, was I glad I grabbed this book. It kept me engaged and entertained the entire time. I loved it and I think I have a new favorite author!
This book is as so good. This author was new to me so I was unsure if I would like the plot. Boy, was I glad I grabbed this book. It kept me engaged and entertained the entire time. I loved it and I think I have a new favorite author!
August 30, 2025
A Witty, Thoughtful, and Moving Sci-Fi Gem
I, Robot Alien by Joel R. Dennstedt is one of those rare sci-fi books that manages to be funny, melancholy, and deeply thought-provoking all at once. The story follows Scoots, a robot built by aliens and sent to a post-apocalyptic Earth with three impossible directives: observe humanity, gently guide it back toward civilization, but never interfere.
Scoots’s voice is what makes this book shine: dry, literal, and unintentionally hilarious, especially when he misinterprets human behavior. His sidekick Billy—a hummingbird drone—adds both charm and unease, always fluttering between adorable loyalty and suspicious reporting. The human characters are just as vivid: Alexander, the reluctant but good-hearted leader; his dark, menacing son Damon; and two mischievous orphan twins who inject chaos and heart into the story.
What surprised me most was the emotional depth. Scoots stumbles into history-changing events almost by accident—introducing dogs to humans, or guiding a broken boy who becomes a king. The book leaps across decades and generations with ease, never losing the reader. And beneath the humor is something tender and sobering: the fragility of human progress, the weight of watching civilizations rise and fall, and the impossible question of whether “helping” people always means changing them.
The tone reminded me at times of Douglas Adams—wry and witty—but it’s quieter, more reflective, and ultimately more moving. This isn’t a story of flashy battles or explosions; it’s a philosophical journey about humanity, perception, and connection, told through the eyes of someone who will never grow old.
A thoughtful, funny, and unexpectedly poignant read. For anyone who loves sci-fi with big ideas and even bigger heart, I, Robot Alien is a gem. Also, love the illustrations!
I, Robot Alien by Joel R. Dennstedt is one of those rare sci-fi books that manages to be funny, melancholy, and deeply thought-provoking all at once. The story follows Scoots, a robot built by aliens and sent to a post-apocalyptic Earth with three impossible directives: observe humanity, gently guide it back toward civilization, but never interfere.
Scoots’s voice is what makes this book shine: dry, literal, and unintentionally hilarious, especially when he misinterprets human behavior. His sidekick Billy—a hummingbird drone—adds both charm and unease, always fluttering between adorable loyalty and suspicious reporting. The human characters are just as vivid: Alexander, the reluctant but good-hearted leader; his dark, menacing son Damon; and two mischievous orphan twins who inject chaos and heart into the story.
What surprised me most was the emotional depth. Scoots stumbles into history-changing events almost by accident—introducing dogs to humans, or guiding a broken boy who becomes a king. The book leaps across decades and generations with ease, never losing the reader. And beneath the humor is something tender and sobering: the fragility of human progress, the weight of watching civilizations rise and fall, and the impossible question of whether “helping” people always means changing them.
The tone reminded me at times of Douglas Adams—wry and witty—but it’s quieter, more reflective, and ultimately more moving. This isn’t a story of flashy battles or explosions; it’s a philosophical journey about humanity, perception, and connection, told through the eyes of someone who will never grow old.
A thoughtful, funny, and unexpectedly poignant read. For anyone who loves sci-fi with big ideas and even bigger heart, I, Robot Alien is a gem. Also, love the illustrations!
August 12, 2025
I, Robot Alien exceeded my expectations. Joel R. Dennstedt brings to life a world ruined by its technological ambition, populated by tribes who’ve forgotten their origins and are suspicious of anything new. Into this bleak landscape steps Scoots, the robot with a heart (and a mind) in turmoil. His struggle to help humanity without breaking his alien directives is fascinating, and I found myself agonizing with him over every decision. The dynamics between Scoots and Billy were fascinating—they play out as adversarial and at times share a weird bond. What I appreciated most was the novel’s depth: Dennstedt doesn’t just imagine a ruined Earth; he examines how people would rebuild, inventing new myths to explain the past. The writing is vivid, and the characters, even the minor ones, are drawn with genuine care. This book is both an exciting adventure and a meditation on what it means to guide others—and the costs of doing so. Highly recommended.
August 12, 2025
I, Robot Alien had me entertained and thinking about what can become of humanity if we give free rein to technology. The story follows a robot sent to save humanity after our downfall—but I stayed for the emotional depth of the story. Scoots’s journey across centuries, always on the outside looking in, really resonated with me. Dennstedt’s handling of Scoots’s inner conflict—caught between his programming and his growing empathy for humans—felt genuine and heartbreaking. Then there is the crisp writing, the narrative voice that will tuck at the edges of your heart until the very last page. I loved every bit of this book.
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August 28, 2025I, Robot Alien is a gripping sci-fi adventure that kept me hooked from start to finish. The post-apocalyptic setting is vividly imagined, and the moral dilemmas faced by the robot guide add deep emotional weight. Joel R. Dennstedt masterfully blends action, suspense, and thought-provoking questions about humanity and choice. The pacing is perfect, and the twists kept me eagerly turning the pages. Highly recommended for fans of intelligent, character-driven science fiction.
September 14, 2025
I still don’t know if I liked it or not.
I gave it 5 stars because it is extremely well written. It is definitely a book that is deeply pondered after every chapter. I can’t remember reading a story as intricately woven as this one. The characters are real and memorable. ….Very interesting read.
I gave it 5 stars because it is extremely well written. It is definitely a book that is deeply pondered after every chapter. I can’t remember reading a story as intricately woven as this one. The characters are real and memorable. ….Very interesting read.
August 28, 2025
💯💯💯💯💯
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2025
fun robot adventure
Enjoyable perspective of the robot across many, many generations of people. And that Billy, oh man. I enjoy stories from a robot’s perspective.
Enjoyable perspective of the robot across many, many generations of people. And that Billy, oh man. I enjoy stories from a robot’s perspective.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews