Ralph Masiello's Robot Drawing Book

May 2, 2011
As with previous titles in this series, Masiello offers budding artists a step-by-step tutorial on how to draw kid-friendly subjectsâthis time, robots. After beginning with a basic "Simplibot," made up of rectangles, squares, and circles, the robots build in complexity, with additions like electrical outlets, keyholes, and antennae, all meticulously labeled in a "Spare Parts Warehouse." The "upgraded" robots, colored in various media and paired with a simple phrase or verse, include "Sparky Springbot," with pincers and slinkylike legs, and "Bakerbot," who has a small oven for a chest. Masiello's recipe is light and appealing, offering just the right amount of guidance. Ages 6â9.

August 1, 2011

Gr 2-5-Masiello begins with a discussion of how to use circles, squares, and other basic forms to draw robot parts like switches, plugs, and antennae. He includes a brief discussion of drawing and coloring tools and shows young artists how to draw eight different robots, such as the "Bakerbot," "Ovalbot," and "Bellybot." The robots are shown in progressive steps of completion opposite a full-page illustration of the finished product, fully colored, and with a short, lighthearted caption. Sidebars with suggestions for more advanced embellishments appear on some pages. The instructions are simple enough for primary-grade students to have success without adult assistance. Masiello's creations are humorous, old-fashioned, and two dimensional. Artists who are looking for the more sophisticated, warrior-type robots will need to look elsewhere; there are no swords or laser guns here. Children interested in the friendly, playmate kind of robot will enjoy Masiello's offering.-Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.