I Heart Robot

May 1, 2015

Gr 9 Up-This novel is set in a Scandinavian country in a future in which androids think independently and rebel against their human owners. Sixteen-year-old Tyri, training as a violinist despite her mother's reservations, learns she's been accepted to the prestigious Baldur Philharmonic Orchestra. Days before rehearsal, while out celebrating with friends, Tyri gravitates toward the excitement of a dangerous neighborhood where rebel androids hide. She comes upon a mysterious boy playing a dynamic viola for a rapt audience. Quinn, a renegade android who ran away from abusive owners, is now a fringe member of the rebel movement. As a violinist, he gains acceptance to the Orchestra while keeping his android identity secret. They narrate alternating chapters as Quinn becomes involved in the rebellion while Tyri spies on her mother, who works for the powerful robotics corporation, on behalf of his highly influential family. The music subplot soon takes a backseat to the unfolding rebellion and ensuing revelations and returns only for the story's resolution. A potentially fascinating premise goes largely unmined with a plodding plot and a future that feels more present day in actions and language despite injections of a few futuristic terms. The main characters remain flat and reactionary throughout. Adults and teens, robots and humans, have the same voices and lack a sense of individuality or authenticity. VERDICT A pass for most libraries except those in need of more sci-fi fare.-Hillary St. George, Los Angeles Public Library

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