What does it mean to be a good teammate, like Hank's friends?

This is a discussion prompt for Robot on the Loose by Henry Winkler, Lin Oliver. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Have you ever started something late and had to work extra hard? How did it feel?

This is a discussion prompt for Robot on the Loose by Henry Winkler, Lin Oliver. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

If you could build any robot, what would it do?

This is a discussion prompt for Robot on the Loose by Henry Winkler, Lin Oliver. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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Robot on the Loose

Name: Robot on the Loose
ISBN: 9780515157178

by Henry Winkler, Lin Oliver

Hank enters a school robot-building contest. With help from his friends and a new expert, he tackles a late start and learns the power of perseverance.

About This Book

Hank enters a robot-building contest at school and hopes to win a trophy, despite getting a late start, with help of Frankie, Ashley, and Jaden, a new friend and robot expert.

Concepts

Teamwork & Collaboration Friendship & Loyalty Resilience & Perseverance Self-Confidence & Identity Curiosity & Wonder Joy & Gratitude Making Friends Growing Up Robots School Life Friendship & Social

Wonderlit Review

This installment, "Robot on the Loose #11," continues the adventures of Hank, who finds himself in a classic school predicament: a robot-building contest with a challenging late start. The narrative centers on Hank's determination to win a trophy, which he pursues with the crucial assistance of his established friends, Frankie and Ashley, and the timely arrival of Jaden, a new friend who happens to be a robot expert. The book handles themes of perseverance and teamwork directly, showing how collaboration and not giving up can lead to success, even when the odds seem stacked against you. The emotional arc is generally uplifting and hopeful, focusing on problem-solving and the joy of shared effort. This book is ideal for early to late elementary readers, particularly those who enjoy realistic school stories with a touch of STEM excitement. Parents might reach for this when their child is facing a big project, struggling with a challenge, or needs a reminder about the power of friendship and asking for help. There are no sensitive topics requiring preview, making it a straightforward, enjoyable read. Younger children (4-6) will appreciate it as a read-aloud, focusing on the fun of robots and friendship, while older children (7-11) can independently read and connect with Hank's relatable struggles and triumphs. What sets it apart from other books on perseverance is its blend of a relatable school setting with the engaging, hands-on subject of robotics, making it both entertaining and subtly educational.