A singing, but lonely robot creates a friend in this charming writing collaboration between mother and daughter with soft, cozy illustrations by Matt Phelan. Artfully simple, repetitive wording shows the wonders of place, personality, and activity. Rhyming songs beg for sing-alongs. Perfect for read-alouds or one-on-ones. ( )

Leading a peaceful and quiet life in his small white home, Little Robot maintained a routine that looked pretty much the same every day, from getting up and putting on his rollers, to refueling with oatmeal and oil, and rolling down to the pond. Eventually though, he became lonely and decided to construct a little canine companion. It turned out that Little Dog was just what he needed...

Co-authors Patricia MacLachlan and Emily MacLachlan Charest spin a poignant tale of a lonely creature who needs a companion in Little Robot Alone, which combines two popular picture-book story types - the robot tale and the new puppy narrative - and uses both prose and poetic forms in the telling. I found the story here engaging, and thought the little rhyming refrains worked quite well. The accompanying artwork from Matt Phelan, done in pencil and watercolor, was cute and expressive. Recommended to young children who love robots and/or puppies, and to readers looking for picture-books about feeling lonely. ( )