Book Review: Rusty the Squeaky Robot by Neil Clark

Rusty the Squeaky Robot is a picturebook written and illustrated by Neil Clark. Rusty is a friendly robot, but he’s feeling down about the way that he sounds. The other robots on Planet Robotone – show Rusty that being a little bit different is the best way to be, and together make a  song and dance together that celebrates their differences.

Rusty the Squeaky Robot has bright and bold illustrations. The story is all about being yourself and friendship. Rusty does not like that he is different, however he quickly discovers that everyone is different and when we accept each other, and work together, those differences make things beautiful and a lot more fun. I think children are much better at this that adults, and will quickly understand the lesson and enjoy finding ways to pool talents and differences in their own classrooms, families, or other groups. I like that the story is fun, and while the lesson is clear it does not feel like it is being spoon fed or forced on the reader, which always bothers me. I enjoy the fact that stories like this can help encourage empathy, acceptance, and further discussion. 

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