My Dad is a Robot by Matt Cosgrove

Koala Books Scholastic, 2018. ISBN 9781742993256
(Ages: 3-6) Themes: Fathers, Robots. 'It's PRETTY FUN having a robot for a dad! Even if he's an older model.'
Matt Cosgrove's imaginative picture book "My Dad is a Robot" is jam-packed with dad jokes, robot comparisons and loads of humour. He draws and writes from his personal experiences of being a son and a father. Who doesn't want their dad to be a robot?
This is a top-secret story as the small boy takes us on his journey of discovery, firstly his dad's not the awesome futuristic type with laser eyes, jet-powered feet and retractable arms. His characteristics are quirkier, they belong to an older model, one that can robot dance, has X-ray vision and runs entirely on leftovers. This dad loves working in his 'Secret Headquarters for Engineering and Development - S.H.E.D. for short.
Of course, Cosgrove includes those classic dad responses to common questions and situations. 'Dad I'm hungry.' 'Nice to meet you, Hungry!' Each scene shows dad and son in a different place, wearing embarrassing bathers at the beach, dressed as a chauffeur and as a personal beanbag for his son to rest on. This dad loves to rest, his batteries often run low and he falls asleep on the couch. The son's unique solution is a solar-powered helmet made from everyday items, and dad's response is really funny!
"My Dad is a Robot" is a wonderful amusing picture book, just right for dad and grandpas to share with their families. Take time to look at each scene and situation both the dad, his son and their dog find themselves in, delight in the jokes and robot comparisons!
Rhyllis Bignell