4.5 stars. Peter Brown’s The Wild Robot is the tale of Roz, a robot who washes up on the shores of an island after her container ship sinks. She survives in spite of her circumstances, then begins to interact with the animals around her.
The prevalent theme is how Roz becomes part of the community as she follows her programming to be helpful. She learns from the animals and her surroundings, then works to make conditions better through understanding and cooperation.
For all that, the book isn’t without excitement and action. Roz is endangered by the environment and some of the other animals, and how she overcomes these obstacles will keep the pages turning.
The ending of the book is complete and satisfying, yet leaves me wanting to read more of her adventures. The story is told with a deft touch, keeping the themes from being maudlin or overused. Complementing the prose are simple yet beautiful illustrations.
A joyous book about belonging and community, and a delight to read.
Carl's Geek Notes 