As the 2016 new releases start to flood the market, here’s a look at some of the titles we didn’t have a chance to review.

Little Robot
By Ben Hatke.
First Second Books. 2015. ISBN 9781626720800
HC, $16.99. 136pp.
Grades 2 and up

Little Robot is by the artist best known for Zita the Space Girl. When a box falls off a truck and winds up in a garbage dump, it is discovered by a lonely girl who lives in a trailer park. She uncovers the robot and befriends him, showing him her world. He becomes lonely, wanting to be around more “like him,” but the little girl, who remains nameless throughout the story, doesn’t want to give him up. But then another robot-like machine comes after them. It was sent to track the missing package.

This heartwarming, almost wordless, tale tells a timeless story of friendship. Readers will easily fall in love with both the almost cherubic-like little girl and the adorable robot. Though the story starts out at a leisurely pace, it quickly picks up speed as the robot and the little girl need to make their escape.

This gentle story is told with soft yet vibrant colors. Many of the panels focus heavily on the scenery, but there is no absence of action.

This is an excellent pick for young readers. If it hasn’t been added to your reading shelf, do so now.

This review is based on a complimentary copy supplied by the publisher. All images copyright © First Second Books.