Weird Little Robots

by Carolyn Crimi

Other authors: Corrina Luyken (Illustrator)

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69	12	404,767	(3.82)	5
Fantasy. Juvenile Fiction. Juvenile Literature. Science Fiction. HTML: When two science-savvy girls create an entire robot world, they don't expect the robots to come alive. But life may be a bit more magical than they thought. Nine-year-old Penny Rose has just moved to a new town, and so far the robots she builds herself are her only company. But with just a bit of magic, everything changes: she becomes best friends with Lark, has the chance to join a secret science club, and discovers that her robots are alive. Penny Rose hardly remembers how lonely she used to feel. But then a fateful misstep forces her to choose between the best friend she's always hoped for and the club she's always dreamed of, and in the end it may be her beloved little robots that pay the price. Quirky and wonderful, this illustrated chapter book from Carolyn Crimi and Corinna Luyken shows that making your own space and a true friend in the world is a kind of magic all its own. .… (more)

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Showing 1-5 of 12 (next | show all)

Weird little novel. My favorite aspect is the complex, realistic, not cliched character interactions. Some of the characters themselves were sketched a little too easily, but the attention to detail was special. My inner child and I really wanted, however, more science, more 'maker' crafting, and less magic. And fewer of dad's odd recipes (waste of words).

Half a bonus point for the rec. to put fresh fruit, instead of sweetened jam, on peanut butter sandwiches... not just bananas, but try smushed strawberries, or grape halves, or thin peach slices....

Recommended to interested children. I'm not sure how many of you, my adult friends, would actually like this.

Compare to the weird little picture-book, [b:Nothing in Common|51975839|Nothing in Common|Kate Hoefler|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1574742265l/51975839._SX50_.jpg|73483416] (

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Cheryl_in_CC_NV | Oct 18, 2024 |

This review was written for LibraryThing Early Reviewers.

Quick Thoughts: This is one I think belongs is most elementary and middle school libraries. Lots of topics - girl power, science, technology, STEAM - mixed with magical realism. Strong themes of persistence and tenacity. Great characters with strong personalities. Includes bonus illustrations that work well to portray the feelings in the tale. Lots of reader personalities would like this one!

Tasses | Oct 6, 2023 |

Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

fernandie | Sep 15, 2022 |

This review was written for LibraryThing Early Reviewers.

2 girls, Penny Rose and Lark, have never quite fit in but both long for friendship. Once they realize their differences makes them perfect for each other, they friendship blossoms. They bond over science and the Weird Little Robots. Friendship, confidence, and the robots are all threatened and the girls need to use each other's strengths and support to get through it.

It is a good story with interesting main characters. The characters are fallible but learn from mistakes, grow together, and display a touching tenderness. Social pressure, trust, and admitting one's mistakes all come in to play. Strong STEM themes should encourage and appeal female and male readers alike.

The robots play a supporting role and definitely could have a book of their own as their story line was interesting and fun.

Artwork is fun and adds a lot to appeal of the story. (

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loafhunter13 | Nov 12, 2019 |

This review was written for LibraryThing Early Reviewers.

I enjoyed this book. I think my daughter will also enjoy it in a year or two. The social messages are a little advanced for her at the moment (she is in kindergarten). I like the example it sets of girls liking science and math. It deals with topics of social pressure, trying to fit in, and staying true to yourself well. The characters don't always make the right decisions, but they learn from their mistakes and come around in the in. I wish they magic of the robots had been explored a little more. The illustrations were sweet and engaging. I think this is a good book for 3rd-5th graders. (

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HeroicHatchling | Oct 10, 2019 |

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Author name	Role	Type of author	Work?	Status
Carolyn Crimi	—	primary author	all editions	calculated
Luyken, Corrina	Illustrator	secondary author	all editions	confirmed

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The Best Children's Books of the Year (2020)

Illinois Reads (3-5 – 2021)

Kansas NEA Reading Circle Recommended Book (Intermediate – 2020)

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Fantasy. Juvenile Fiction. Juvenile Literature. Science Fiction. HTML:

When two science-savvy girls create an entire robot world, they don't expect the robots to come alive. But life may be a bit more magical than they thought.
Nine-year-old Penny Rose has just moved to a new town, and so far the robots she builds herself are her only company. But with just a bit of magic, everything changes: she becomes best friends with Lark, has the chance to join a secret science club, and discovers that her robots are alive. Penny Rose hardly remembers how lonely she used to feel. But then a fateful misstep forces her to choose between the best friend she's always hoped for and the club she's always dreamed of, and in the end it may be her beloved little robots that pay the price. Quirky and wonderful, this illustrated chapter book from Carolyn Crimi and Corinna Luyken shows that making your own space and a true friend in the world is a kind of magic all its own.

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