BOOKS

The Bot That Scott Built

by Kim NORMAN
illus. by Agnese Baruzzi. 32p. Sterling. Aug. 2016. Tr $14.95. ISBN 9781454910640.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 2—Mayhem ensues when a young student brings his homemade robot to Science Day. In a slapstick, chain-reaction style, Scott's robot causes such a classroom stir that the ant farm accidentally topples over, a boa constrictor escapes from its cage, and a vinegar lava volcano spectacularly erupts. This cumulative tale unfolds to the tune of "This Is the House That Jack Built," and the witty, tongue-twisting rhymes scan well: "These are the plants,/carnivorous plants,/that feasted on flies/and fiery ants,/that tread on the teacher/in polka-dot pants,/who calmed the class/that gawked at the bot/that Scott built." Order is cleverly restored, courtesy of Scott's talented robot. Baruzzi's action-filled, digitally created cartoon illustrations are packed with inventions, tools, and even a Tesla coil.
VERDICT A rollicking good read-aloud choice for a STEM-themed storytime.
Reviewed by Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ont.
When Scott's science-project robot causes mounting havoc among his classmates' projects, Scott activates its handy order-restoring features to set things right. Baruzzi's comical digital illustrations complement the action in this creative cumulative rhyme (inspired by "The House That Jack Built"); they move from tidy to chaotic and back to tidy again, with a nice visual joke at the end.
 , Feb 01, 2017

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BLOGS

Take Five: New Middle Grade Books in May
by Amanda MacGregor
BOOKS

Not If You Break Up with Me First
by Miller, G.F
BOOKS

Any Way You Look
by Siddiqui, Maleeha
BOOKS

Picture a Girl
by Manzer, Jenny
BOOKS

Summer Vamp
by Karim, Violet Chan
BOOKS

Meet Me on Mercer Street
by Vivat, Booki
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?