The Nexi Robot

Children's Literature - Naomi Butler

This title is part of the "A Great Idea" series. Nexi is one of a team of four small humanoid robots that have mobility, dexterity, and "social" communication skills. Chapters include: The "Century of the Robot, Robots with Personality, Nexi the Social Robot," and "Partners for People." There is a glossary, a "For More Information," an index, picture credits, and an "About the Author." Words that appear in bold in the text are defined in the glossary. There is even a "Did You Know?" on the back cover. This book seems to be very thorough and informative. The format includes photos with subtitles, charts, explanatory pullouts, symbols that call attention to particular information, and a section about the author. Every aspect of this title is well done. The pre-bound cover is most attractive. This series should be a "must buy" for all library collections. Reviewer: Naomi Butler

School Library Journal

Gr 4–6—Each of these titles highlights a specific, and often obscure, invention from the past decade that is making, or has the potential to make, a real difference in the world. With a mix of scientific terminology and accessible sentence structure, the books effectively describe how the ideas took shape and were put into practice by the scientists involved. Students are generally intrigued by robots and will find Nexi Robot of particular interest, though the author is careful to explain the limitations of what this robot currently can and cannot do. Seed Vault explains the need to preserve endangered plant species and how they are collected and protected. Sunscreen for Plants shows how early attempts at protecting crops from overexposure to the sun were either ineffective or somehow harmful to the plant, and how a few individuals worked together to devise a product that was both effective and ecologically sound. Bionic Hand is a fascinating look at how biology and technology are being used to create more useful prostheses for those who have lost a limb. In all of the books, color photographs are included on every page and provide a visual complement to the texts. Small "Did You Know?" boxes appear on nearly every spread and offer up short, interesting facts. Current, relevant Web sites are appended. Librarians looking to beef up science or inventions collections may find these solid additions.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA