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The Loneliest Robot
At last, a story for the fast-moving modern technology age that reminds us all to stay HUMAN!
For more, please visit - www.theloneliestrobot.com
A lonely boy discovers an incredible Robot in his garden shed. A silent and highly gifted girl chooses to be alone in her attic bedroom. The richest man in the world mysteriously disappears.
Join a group of unlikely best friends, on a journey of self-discovery as they all transform through life. We can get so lost; we can forget what it's truly like to feel HUMAN. Many things distract us all - smartphones, buying more and more stuff, technology, TV, everyone working longer and harder.... It's so easy to get lost in modern life.
Discover The Loneliest Robot. Discover yourself!
For more, please visit - www.theloneliestrobot.com
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 11, 2017
58 people are currently reading
631 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Glennon
2 books13 followersAndrew Glennon was born in Liverpool, UK.
For almost 30 years he worked around the world for large multi-national companies before deciding to burn the business suit, shirt and tie. His first book, "The Loneliest Robot" was released in 2017 and is a highly original and imaginative work of fiction which challenges modern life and technology. This was followed up in 2018 with The Christmas Robot, a festive tale that reminds us all what Christmas is really about.
Andrew likes music, great movies and interesting people.
Andrew dislikes robotic people, greed, margarine and rap music.
For almost 30 years he worked around the world for large multi-national companies before deciding to burn the business suit, shirt and tie. His first book, "The Loneliest Robot" was released in 2017 and is a highly original and imaginative work of fiction which challenges modern life and technology. This was followed up in 2018 with The Christmas Robot, a festive tale that reminds us all what Christmas is really about.
Andrew likes music, great movies and interesting people.
Andrew dislikes robotic people, greed, margarine and rap music.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 24, 2018
This is a story about Robert Karma and Velia Rose. Two young kids who inadvertently become best friends through a robot named UMA. Robert's parents could care less about him completely consumed with greed. Their love of gaining and spending money becomes so intense they often forget about Robert or see him as an inconvenience. Robert spends most of his time at Velia Rose's house (a very gifted but mute young girl) and with her grandparents Lilly & Dennis Baccino. They take in Robert and UMA as sons and it seems nothing can stop this unexpected family from living life to the fullest. One day Robert gets a job opportunity while playing a video game. What will this job mean?
This book may be written for young adults but all should read this hauntingly beautiful story. The book is written beautifully and you feel like you are part of the Baccino family as their story unfolds.
A tale of choosing life over living without joy and choosing joy in living.
This book may be written for young adults but all should read this hauntingly beautiful story. The book is written beautifully and you feel like you are part of the Baccino family as their story unfolds.
A tale of choosing life over living without joy and choosing joy in living.
November 27, 2017
A thought-provoking read about the dangers of modern life - corporate greed, money before love and isolation.
This is a well-written story with great characters - good and bad - and a plot, which is chilling in parts. It has life lessons and a strong moral compass; if you are willing to take note..and a twist.
The idea of AI can be scary and we all understand our reliance on machines. One robot's quest is intriguing and heartfelt in this unusual tale. Robert's story is both disturbing, as it highlights some of today's parenting, and hopeful.
A mix of messages that culminate into a warning; who among us will listen and change? Themes of love, friendship, good v evil and technology make this a great read.
Worth a look - for all ages.
This is a well-written story with great characters - good and bad - and a plot, which is chilling in parts. It has life lessons and a strong moral compass; if you are willing to take note..and a twist.
The idea of AI can be scary and we all understand our reliance on machines. One robot's quest is intriguing and heartfelt in this unusual tale. Robert's story is both disturbing, as it highlights some of today's parenting, and hopeful.
A mix of messages that culminate into a warning; who among us will listen and change? Themes of love, friendship, good v evil and technology make this a great read.
Worth a look - for all ages.
September 14, 2017
Do your children and yourself a favor, get this book, read it together, read it often, and share it with everyone.
This is a one of a kind story about living a life of happiness and avoiding a wasted life of running after things. A story about the most important joys in life, family, friends, laughter, and sharing.
Please, get this book to those you love who might be caught on the hamster's wheel of chasing after things, working their life and health away for money and things while missing out on really living and enjoying their life. Better yet, stop them from ever getting lost in working instead of living.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Yes, it's a children's level book but perfect for all ages. You will love this story of a lonely robot given to a lonely 12 year old boy and you will follow these two friends into adulthood, work, falling in love, making life-long friendships, building and growing beauty in their lives and sharing it with others.
And there are even some beautiful illustrations included , my favorite being an older couple laughing and dancing together. Absolutely gorgeous!
You and your children will love " The Loneliest Robot". Don't wait, don't think, just get it and enjoy this wonderful tale.
This is a one of a kind story about living a life of happiness and avoiding a wasted life of running after things. A story about the most important joys in life, family, friends, laughter, and sharing.
Please, get this book to those you love who might be caught on the hamster's wheel of chasing after things, working their life and health away for money and things while missing out on really living and enjoying their life. Better yet, stop them from ever getting lost in working instead of living.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Yes, it's a children's level book but perfect for all ages. You will love this story of a lonely robot given to a lonely 12 year old boy and you will follow these two friends into adulthood, work, falling in love, making life-long friendships, building and growing beauty in their lives and sharing it with others.
And there are even some beautiful illustrations included , my favorite being an older couple laughing and dancing together. Absolutely gorgeous!
You and your children will love " The Loneliest Robot". Don't wait, don't think, just get it and enjoy this wonderful tale.
December 9, 2018
Part morality tale, part philosophical discussion, part satirical commentary on modern living, The Loneliest Robot explores what it is like to try to live a good life in a world blighted by consumerism and large corporate greed. It deals with themes such as love and loyalty, gratitude and appreciation, dignity and self-worth and juxtaposes them with an exploration of detachment, dehumanisation and self-absorption and the true meaning and hidden costs of success. It is also very funny and told in a gentle observational style that draws you into the fantasy. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.
August 19, 2017
This is an interesting story that will make readers think. I also think it is great for many ages. Robert Karma, as a child, lived in a world where his parents were too busy for him. His dad gives him a robot with the initials UMA on its' chest and Robert's life changes for the better. For a while anyway. Readers follow Robert as he gets older and life changes him. But this story is also abut UMA, the robot, and how the boy, who becomes a man, and the robot's lives intertwine. Great story with an interesting ending.
September 15, 2017
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. There is a juvenile style and quirkiness to this story for sure but it addresses a very real problem in today's society, a disconnect from other people, friends and family.
I definitely recommend this story for the young people growing up in this technological time.
"Many people get lost in modern life. They search for meaning and happiness in things that cannot return any love. Most people are too busy or distracted, even to wonder if they are truly happy. They forget about love... the one special thing that makes them truly human."
I definitely recommend this story for the young people growing up in this technological time.
"Many people get lost in modern life. They search for meaning and happiness in things that cannot return any love. Most people are too busy or distracted, even to wonder if they are truly happy. They forget about love... the one special thing that makes them truly human."
October 1, 2017
What a brilliant read this was. I could not put it down until I found out how this story unfolded. There is a powerful message within these pages warning the reader of how easy it is to lose one's way in today's busy world. It takes a little robot called UMA to show what is really important in life which is friends and family and the time you spend with them. I would love to have a little robot friend like UMA to keep me on track.
This book is ideal for readers aged 9 years and beyond. It is a wonderful story which leaves you with a warm glow inside after reading it. (Just like UMA). You will not be disappointed.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering to leave a review
This book is ideal for readers aged 9 years and beyond. It is a wonderful story which leaves you with a warm glow inside after reading it. (Just like UMA). You will not be disappointed.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering to leave a review
September 30, 2018
A must read for workaholics
When I joined Goodreads, The Loneliest Robot was the first giveaway I entered. I didn't win, but I always wanted to go back to it. Thanks to Kindle Unlimited I finally read it. I'm glad I did. It's a sweet story about how easy it is to succumb to greed, materialism, and the pursuit of both. I loved the silly names of the characters, and the symbols they represented. Kids should read this as a cautionary tale. Adults should read it to ensure they don't sacrifice happiness and family for money.
When I joined Goodreads, The Loneliest Robot was the first giveaway I entered. I didn't win, but I always wanted to go back to it. Thanks to Kindle Unlimited I finally read it. I'm glad I did. It's a sweet story about how easy it is to succumb to greed, materialism, and the pursuit of both. I loved the silly names of the characters, and the symbols they represented. Kids should read this as a cautionary tale. Adults should read it to ensure they don't sacrifice happiness and family for money.
November 28, 2018
I was truly fascinated by this tale of a young boy who befriends a robot who shows up at his house. The boys' parents are horrid and self-involved. The mother's obsession with TV shopping shows was hilarious and so true of today's society. What one has is not enough...more and better is the mentality. The robot becomes the young and lonely boy's best friend, along with a young girl, living next door, who is being raised by her grandparents. The young girl hasn't left her bedroom since her parents died. This is a coming of age story, adjustments, a romance tale, a search for one's family...what the meaning of family is. Even when the boy grows up and forgets about the robot, the robot doesn't forget about him. a delightful story for any age.
February 15, 2020
A cautionary tale
This is a wonderful debut by Andrew Glennon and it really hits home about the modern world, technology, greed, isolation, and what people truly need to be happy.
The story follows Robert Karma, a young boy who's parents are too distracted to care for or about him and purchase a robot to take care of those tasks. What follows is a wonderful journey filled with joy, hope, sadness, more joy, laughs, tears, and a true sense of what is important.
This is a wonderful debut by Andrew Glennon and it really hits home about the modern world, technology, greed, isolation, and what people truly need to be happy.
The story follows Robert Karma, a young boy who's parents are too distracted to care for or about him and purchase a robot to take care of those tasks. What follows is a wonderful journey filled with joy, hope, sadness, more joy, laughs, tears, and a true sense of what is important.
December 31, 2017
Thoroughly Enjoyed.
A wonderful tale. Many revealling truths of how we live our often too busy lives. A reminder that family matters. Yes we need to work but we don't need to let it control our lives. Short, sweet and very thought provoking for adults. A happy ending for the young who may enjoy this story.
A wonderful tale. Many revealling truths of how we live our often too busy lives. A reminder that family matters. Yes we need to work but we don't need to let it control our lives. Short, sweet and very thought provoking for adults. A happy ending for the young who may enjoy this story.
December 16, 2019
The Loneliest Robot (Robert) was a great read. I quickly devoured this heart touching story. Great world-building and what a cast of interesting characters. This is a tale with huge heart. I look forward to reading more by this author.
December 9, 2017
Refer to Amazon.com for my review under Andrea M on 27/09/2017.
January 12, 2018
Sweet story, but heavy handed
This book is about the dangers of personal devices and technology. I read it on a tablet. And that's part of the issue. Glennon attacks technology too much and never gets into how people benefit from it.
But UMA is a wonderful character, even if we needed more of him. Velia Rose too. There is a lot of potential here, but it didn't quite work.
This book is about the dangers of personal devices and technology. I read it on a tablet. And that's part of the issue. Glennon attacks technology too much and never gets into how people benefit from it.
But UMA is a wonderful character, even if we needed more of him. Velia Rose too. There is a lot of potential here, but it didn't quite work.
June 21, 2018
Love, love, love this book!!!! I didn't want to stop reading it. I was almost to the end and my Kindle shut down on me! That was the longest wait for it to charge and the work day to end so I could finish the book. Very well written, the subject matter is on point for our modern world. I would see this if it was turned into a movie. Recommend this book strongly.
June 18, 2017
An excerpt from the author's bio: '"The Loneliest Robot" was released in 2017 and is a highly original and imaginative work of fiction which challenges modern life and technology.'
Wall-E did it better.
Every page before the timeskip had a genuine and warm affect of a coming of age story that address the problems of technology and consumerism in a modern-esque world. What's refreshing about this story is that it directly addresses the disconnect that techonology has on human interactions and relationships. It could be a good read for the stated audience in the description above ("especially frustrated parents of technology-addicted children!"). I'll keep this review short and sweet.
Firstly, the story is devoid of character development, mind the robot UMA who naturally learns more about humans, love, etc. as the story goes on. My main problem is the development of Robert. While this book is aimed at young adult population, it does not excuse the poor character development of Robert that occurs after the timeskip. To keep this short, it took a direction that I personally felt was a betrayal of character for the sake of the narrative, rather than flushing out the character we were introduced to in the beginning. And yeah, I'm down with characters pulling a complete 180 and become unlikable, but only when it's done properly. Unfortunately, this isn't the case for Robert.
Another issue I had is the reptition of the concepts of technology and consumerism that became quite the nuisance. Yeah, it's toted as a "dark comedy," but it became tiring after awhile, especially when the ideas remain static and unexplored. I get that a satire needs to hit on those points and be critical of it, but the story falls flat in trying to convey the purposeful and impactful message the author originally intended.
I wanted to like this book, I really did. My overall impression of the story is that it had a lot of potential, but gets lost in the redundant exaggeration of the concepts it tries to criticize, becoming silly after awhile. Do note that the abandonment of a key feature of the story is not revisited until the very end of the story, which ultimately led to my personal dissapointment in the direction of the story. I will say that it is an OK novel, and would at the very least recommend it to support a new author with good intentions.
Wall-E did it better.
Every page before the timeskip had a genuine and warm affect of a coming of age story that address the problems of technology and consumerism in a modern-esque world. What's refreshing about this story is that it directly addresses the disconnect that techonology has on human interactions and relationships. It could be a good read for the stated audience in the description above ("especially frustrated parents of technology-addicted children!"). I'll keep this review short and sweet.
Firstly, the story is devoid of character development, mind the robot UMA who naturally learns more about humans, love, etc. as the story goes on. My main problem is the development of Robert. While this book is aimed at young adult population, it does not excuse the poor character development of Robert that occurs after the timeskip. To keep this short, it took a direction that I personally felt was a betrayal of character for the sake of the narrative, rather than flushing out the character we were introduced to in the beginning. And yeah, I'm down with characters pulling a complete 180 and become unlikable, but only when it's done properly. Unfortunately, this isn't the case for Robert.
Another issue I had is the reptition of the concepts of technology and consumerism that became quite the nuisance. Yeah, it's toted as a "dark comedy," but it became tiring after awhile, especially when the ideas remain static and unexplored. I get that a satire needs to hit on those points and be critical of it, but the story falls flat in trying to convey the purposeful and impactful message the author originally intended.
I wanted to like this book, I really did. My overall impression of the story is that it had a lot of potential, but gets lost in the redundant exaggeration of the concepts it tries to criticize, becoming silly after awhile. Do note that the abandonment of a key feature of the story is not revisited until the very end of the story, which ultimately led to my personal dissapointment in the direction of the story. I will say that it is an OK novel, and would at the very least recommend it to support a new author with good intentions.
November 25, 2017
Reliant upon the assistance of technology for both complex and simple functions, it's easy to become invested in the devices in our lives rather than the people around us, as demonstrated in Andrew Glennon's The Loneliest Robot.
To read this, and other book reviews, visit my website: http://makinggoodstories.wordpress.com/.
Robert Karma is a rather lonely boy as his father works all the time and his mother is preoccupied with buy loads of new things and being catered to. When his father orders a robot stamped with the name "UMA," Robert quickly becomes friends with him, as well as the young, silent girl next door, Velia Rose, who benefits from UMA's ingenious ideas. UMA makes quick work of tidying up, crafts delicious food and drinks, and designs helpful items and beautiful gardens, but his unique quality is his emotional capacity, demonstrated through a light in his chest that emanates blue when worried or upset and red when happy and content. As Robert grows older he seems to forget the lessons he learned as a young boy as he becomes addicted to technology and works for a large company reliant upon dedicated (over)workers. Before Robert gets in too deep, he manages to come to his senses, with the help of UMA, and better the lives of his co-workers.
While the story was thought-provoking and entertaining in the manner that humans were depicted as overly addicted to technology and greedily attaining more stuff (as is already easily seen in contemporary society), I felt that the names for various people and things were a bit too on-the-nose, making who or what these entities were blatantly obvious with little opportunity for reader interpretation. Robert's character development didn't sit quite right with how his character was initially presented - using a hard time lapse of five years and having his character do a complete about-face didn't feel natural and was instead a method of moving the plot forward. The illustrations were an endearing supplement to the narrative that would likely help younger readers enjoy the story.
To read this, and other book reviews, visit my website: http://makinggoodstories.wordpress.com/.
Robert Karma is a rather lonely boy as his father works all the time and his mother is preoccupied with buy loads of new things and being catered to. When his father orders a robot stamped with the name "UMA," Robert quickly becomes friends with him, as well as the young, silent girl next door, Velia Rose, who benefits from UMA's ingenious ideas. UMA makes quick work of tidying up, crafts delicious food and drinks, and designs helpful items and beautiful gardens, but his unique quality is his emotional capacity, demonstrated through a light in his chest that emanates blue when worried or upset and red when happy and content. As Robert grows older he seems to forget the lessons he learned as a young boy as he becomes addicted to technology and works for a large company reliant upon dedicated (over)workers. Before Robert gets in too deep, he manages to come to his senses, with the help of UMA, and better the lives of his co-workers.
While the story was thought-provoking and entertaining in the manner that humans were depicted as overly addicted to technology and greedily attaining more stuff (as is already easily seen in contemporary society), I felt that the names for various people and things were a bit too on-the-nose, making who or what these entities were blatantly obvious with little opportunity for reader interpretation. Robert's character development didn't sit quite right with how his character was initially presented - using a hard time lapse of five years and having his character do a complete about-face didn't feel natural and was instead a method of moving the plot forward. The illustrations were an endearing supplement to the narrative that would likely help younger readers enjoy the story.
September 11, 2020
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair review. This book started out with a lot of promise. Although it seemed a little cartoonish and over the top, the concept was unique enough for me to keep reading. By the midpoint, it veered off course a little. There are some great concepts in here about humanity, the overuse of technology, and greed, but they are either barely addressed or made into a joke. If this story had about 100 more pages, it would have more development of the characters and themes. Instead, this feels like an introductory book for 12-year-olds to the world of corporate greed. I must admit that the ending of the book was very touching.
February 24, 2018
Perseverance,determination,humble. A book that
Reaches those soft
Spots and more
Reaches those soft
Spots and more
December 31, 2017
this is so different from anything i've read before but I absolutely loved it. recommend highly
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews