Review Detail

COULD ROBOTS RULE THE WORLD? is an interesting nonfiction picture book about the current state of robotics. The book defines robots and then gives many examples of how robots are being used or currently being developed to be used in the world around us. For example, this includes things like robots used for surgeries or self-driving cars. The backmatter includes a helpful glossary and some fun facts.

What I loved: This is a great way to get young readers interested in computing and engineering as they learn about robots (which are always cool!). The book takes a surface-level look at robots in the world around us and the different ways in which they are or may be used. This includes things like monitoring nature, medicine, and for rescue. These can really spark young imaginations and show the breadth of the field.

The writing is large and clear throughout, making it easy to read and great for budding independent readers who are gaining confidence. There are some big words (this is not an early reader per se), but it is great for young elementary school aged readers to read on their own. Full-page, colorful illustrations add to the experience of reading with lots to look at and consider on each page. Backmatter is also helpful and will spark imagination and interest, leading curious readers to seek out more information.

What left me wanting more: The book does not really spend much time answering the question posed by the title and does not really go into the science behind robotics - it gives more information about what robots can do or be used for than about how they are developed or programmed or anything about AI (that might lead to ruling the world). That being said, for young elementary school readers, this is a light/surface introduction into how cool robots are and the many uses they have that will still spark a lot of interest.

Final verdict: CAN ROBOTS RULE THE WORLD? is an engaging picture book that introduces topics of robotics for curious young elementary school aged readers.