Review of Kay-9 The Robot Dog

[Rashad Deniro Price]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Kay-9 The Robot Dog" by J.M. Gulmire.]

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3 out of 5 stars

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Ryan Felix is fond of his dad, and now that his dad is away from the family serving in the military, he gets really sad. It appears that neither video calls with his dad nor writing letters and emails to him can fill the void created by his absence. Ryan couldn't even find succor in his mother's affection and care. He needed to bond with other siblings of his, but there were none; he was the only child. He turned to having a dog, but his mother is allergic to animals. It seems everything is working against his pursuit of happiness and a sense of belonging. He has to do something—something that could satisfy his need for a pet without triggering his mother's allergy. What happens when he embarks on the project of building a robot dog?

I found some interesting aspects in this children's story. The most pronounced was Ryan's disposition to problem-solving. I liked that he could accept the things he couldn't change, like the fact that his dad is absent due to military service and that he has no siblings, and draw strength from within himself to make the best out of situations that can be changed, thus embarking on building an artificial pet dog that, unlike real ones, won't make her mom uncomfortable.

The character development is great, although I have some reservations that I will make known later on. Ryan's feelings while watching a family walk down the street felt real to me. I could imagine all the various emotions and aspirations that the scene evoked in him and could understand why he felt the way he did upon realizing he might never get to experience them. Also, Ryan's initial responses and reactions while conversing with his mom reflected how a young child struggling to reconcile some personal crises could deal with a prying mom. Marco and Mariah played the normal rivalry that exists between siblings well.

Furthermore, the word choices were vivid and created in me a mental picture of the things being discussed or narrated. I especially cherished this narrative: "The old man’s wrinkles sagged and moved like ripples on a pond as he talked" (page 17). I had fun reading some aspects of this story, like Marco and Mariah's banter. I also giggled at reading Ryan's inner thoughts of fleeing to another town and changing his name so he could escape his mother's endless meddling. It's funny that he admitted he would even miss his mom if he did that.

However, I didn't like that this story often lacked details where necessary and prolonged things where a brief note could suffice. For example, I wasn't impressed that a whole lot of pages were dedicated to narrating the back-and-forth conversations between Ryan and his mom as he sources the material for his project and only a couple of descriptive sentences covering the actual configuration of the robot dog. The same thing happened with the account of the science fair: huge coverage of "preliminary events," but a "meager" account of the main event. I expected the author to narrate how each participant presented and explained their project.

In addition, I found some of Ryan's attitudes inexcusable. His rudeness, which is often uncalled for, is off-putting. I don't think this aspect of his characterization (like scoffing and scolding his mom and the use of impolite words) is healthy for the consumption of the target audience of this story: children. I understand Ryan's struggles with loneliness, his uneasiness while in public space, and his repulsion for unwanted interference, yet I think these are better left at their surface level for the sake of the audience than going into a deep account of their psychological implications. This book also needs another round of editing.

Due to the aforementioned concerns, I am removing two stars and rating "Kay-9 the Robot Dog," written by J. M. Gulmire, 3 out of 5 stars. This story is recommended for readers aged seven to twelve.

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Kay-9 The Robot Dog
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[Amy Luman]

There seem tobe parts of this story that would be good for children to learn from and parts that would cause problems. I guess this is an instance where relying on parental guidance would be essential. Thanks!

[Aleena Augustine]

After reading your review, "Kay-9 the Robot Dog" seems like a captivating and engaging book for kids. The relatable character of Ryan, his problem-solving attitude, and the unique concept of building a robot dog to overcome challenges make it sound like an interesting read. I'm intrigued and think it could be a great choice for children.

[Aaron Joseph Maupin]

The review of "Kay-9 the Robot Dog" offers a balanced assessment, discussing the protagonist's problem-solving disposition and character development. It mentions positive and negative aspects, including vivid word choices and enjoyable moments, but also notes the lack of necessary details and off-putting attitudes. The review suggests the need for further editing. It provides helpful insights, but its impact on motivating readers to purchase the book may be moderate. From the reviewer's perspective, it may not be a top choice for everyone's library due to the mentioned concerns.

[Lisa P Cowling]

Some virtues displayed by Ryan in the book are worthy of admiration and children can learn from them. How does Ryan's project of building a robot dog go? Is he able to do it? I would love to see.

[Rishaunda Lynnette Britton]

Ryan is such a talented boy. I am impressed by his ingenuity and passion to find alternative solutions to the things that make him happy. It could be funny but it's really incredible to know he could make a robot dog, thus realizing his dream without causing his mum any discomfort. I look forward to buying this book for my children.