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Practically Human
Not yet published
Expected 30 Oct 26Samantha Kelly is barely holding it together.
Between her mom's illness, bad grades and her best friend Luca slowly fading from view, her life isn't going the way she hoped, or planned.
But an unusual gift from her brilliant Great-Aunt Ivy could soon change all that.
Em looks like a doll. But she's no ordinary toy.
She is a Bio—a forbidden biomechanoid being made of living cells and nanomachines, alive and capable of curiosity, kindness, and empathy. Bios were outlawed long ago after a catastrophic incident, but that hasn't stopped corporations like LumaTech hunting for the secret to their power.
As Sam and Luca are pulled into a hidden world of corporate secrets and outlawed tech, they discover that Em is more than just a miracle of science. She might be the only thing standing between them and a rogue Bio capable of destroying everything.
In a race against time, Sam must decide what she is willing to risk to protect her family, her friends, and a little living doll.
Between her mom's illness, bad grades and her best friend Luca slowly fading from view, her life isn't going the way she hoped, or planned.
But an unusual gift from her brilliant Great-Aunt Ivy could soon change all that.
Em looks like a doll. But she's no ordinary toy.
She is a Bio—a forbidden biomechanoid being made of living cells and nanomachines, alive and capable of curiosity, kindness, and empathy. Bios were outlawed long ago after a catastrophic incident, but that hasn't stopped corporations like LumaTech hunting for the secret to their power.
As Sam and Luca are pulled into a hidden world of corporate secrets and outlawed tech, they discover that Em is more than just a miracle of science. She might be the only thing standing between them and a rogue Bio capable of destroying everything.
In a race against time, Sam must decide what she is willing to risk to protect her family, her friends, and a little living doll.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
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October 10, 2026Robert Tonner is doll royalty to the doll community, and this book was a fascinating journey into his mind because we know him as a doll maker and designer. The subject matter of Practically Human isn't entirely universal, which makes for a difficult review - because it's a niche within a niche. However, there was a humanity that came through what is essentially an inanimate medium. The story is probably best appreciated by a younger audience as it's rather light reading, but it does bring you through joy, sorrow, loss, while remaining engaging throughout. I do think if you see this piece with the knowledge that a lot of his career revolved around dolls, or more importantly, bringing dolls to the world, then the nuance of his storytelling takes a deeper meaning. And that's the angle I found I enjoyed it best from.
Review of advance copy received from Storygraph
Right away, I was drawn to the imaginative concept of a sci-fi fantasy in which a doll becomes the heroine of the story! As a doll collector, I understand that while some may see a doll as nothing more than plastic and individual “parts,” others recognize the magic, wonder, and possibilities that lie within it.
What makes this concept especially intriguing is how its themes can connect to real-world concerns surrounding the growing presence of AI in our everyday lives. By exploring these ideas through a fantastical lens geared toward young adolescents, the story has the potential to introduce younger readers to questions about technology, identity, and what it means to be more than what others see on the surface. These are conversations that will likely become increasingly relevant as this generation grows up alongside rapidly advancing technology.
What makes this concept especially intriguing is how its themes can connect to real-world concerns surrounding the growing presence of AI in our everyday lives. By exploring these ideas through a fantastical lens geared toward young adolescents, the story has the potential to introduce younger readers to questions about technology, identity, and what it means to be more than what others see on the surface. These are conversations that will likely become increasingly relevant as this generation grows up alongside rapidly advancing technology.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A heartwarming and action packed upper middle grade adventure! Sam is a well rounded character Everyman who struggles with having a sick mom, friendship troubles, and fitting in. She also has a genuine and brave heart! Her friendship with her doll, Em, was endearing and reminiscent of my own childhood dolls who would come alive during play and go on adventures with me. With many twists and turns, this adventure will be sure to thrill young readers and Robert Tonner fans alike!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Talented doll maker Robert Tonner was inspired to write a book about a doll that ISN'T creepy or scary and has created a great book. This middle-grade science fiction book about a twelve year old girl and her special doll is a fascinating story with complex characters. It has elements of mystery, adventure, and humor. I'm not the target audience, but I still enjoyed it as a fun read, and definitely recommend it for tweens/early teens.
Review of advance copy
Perfect for a middle grade reader that likes sci-fi, action, and a little mystery! Practically Human gains pace as it goes & is impossible to put down towards the end. Strong themes of friendship, self discovery, and standing up for what is right.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews