Review of Even Robots Have to Go to the Bathroom

Kristy Khem · Post by **Kristy Khem** » 14 Aug 2021, 18:57

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Even Robots Have to Go to the Bathroom" by Valory Silvers.]

3 out of 4 stars

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Valory Silvers writes an intriguing and imaginative storybook for children that features robotic characters. Even Robots Have to Go to the Bathroom is a book about Tobby, a five-year-old boy who is a robot. It’s Tobby’s first day of school, and he is excited to get ready all by himself. The author traces Tobby’s day from the minute he wakes up until the school bus picks him up. Can Tobby complete all of the tasks in the bathroom, such as brushing his teeth, using the toilet, and washing his hands before the bus arrives? More importantly, can he prove that he is a big-boy robot now by getting everything done without his Motherbot’s help?

The educational aspect of this book is one of its best features. Tobby sets a good example for young readers. He practices good hygiene by washing his hands after using the toilet. He helps his Motherbot in the kitchen by putting away his breakfast dishes too. Tobby also sings a song that helps him remember how to brush his teeth properly. These things can teach children the fundamental activities of a good morning routine. Tobby’s determination to complete his morning tasks by himself can also encourage them to do the same.

The theme of robots is present throughout the book. The author altered some of the names of objects to reflect the robotic world. The dresser was called a ‘botdresser’, the toilet was called a ‘toiletbot’, and the dishwasher was called a ‘botwash’. His mother was called ‘Motherbot’. The illustrations also depict Tobby as a robotic little boy. He has a screen on his chest that gives him information about his body. Illustrations of Tobby's home demonstrate robotic elements too, such as knobless pocket doors. I liked that this theme was consistent throughout the book. Using a fun theme to describe mundane morning routines certainly made this story interesting.

If I could change anything about this book, it would be the font. The words were typed solely in uppercase letters except for one instance where Tobby’s thoughts were expressed. Typographical studies have shown that uppercase letters are more difficult for people to read when used in whole paragraphs. I think that a regular font would make the book easier on the eyes. The book also contained a few complex words that children may be unfamiliar with. Moreover, I spotted a couple of grammatical errors in the book.

I deducted a star due to these issues, although, I strongly believe that they can be easily rectified. My final rating is 3 out of 4 stars. It’s an educational and fun story. I would recommend this book to children six years and over. Children who like robots will find this story intriguing. Parents can also use this storybook to introduce the concept of morning routines to their little ones.

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Even Robots Have to Go to the Bathroom
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Kanchan Bhil · Post by **Kanchan Bhil** » 24 Aug 2021, 23:19

Kids often do what they see, what they observe. Reading this book to them will show them how to do things by themselves and on time. Thank you for this great review!

Amanda Dobson · Post by **Amanda Dobson** » 25 Aug 2021, 08:20

I love this book! Your review was fabulous. The idea that a little boy robot having to accomplish all the bathroom tasks is such a great idea especially for young children. This book will help children to easily relate to tasks that they themselves have to do. It also adds encouragement due to the fact that it is a little boy robot trying to step into the role of being a big boy robot that is now in school.

the_bibliofile · Post by **the_bibliofile** » 25 Aug 2021, 09:45

I can totally imagine a kid singing the song while brushing. The book seems engaging, fun and also teaches hygeine! I really like how you've pointed out little details like the alternative words used which makes the book more kid-friendly!

Medhansh Bhardwaj · Post by **Medhansh Bhardwaj** » 30 Aug 2021, 00:19

Your review was awesome. This book seems like a great read, and is a great way of teaching hygienic habits to kids.

Sarah Sonbol · Post by **Sarah Sonbol** » 22 Dec 2021, 03:34

The book title is fantastic. I liked the idea of the book and I think it would be an enjoyable read for children. However, writing the whole book in uppercase is definitely a drawback. Adults, not to mention kids, find it harder to read this way. Uppercase words make it as if someone is shouting rather than talking in a regular tone. Thanks for the wonderful review.