April 7, 2014

Wild robots


Zoobots: Wild Robots Inspired by Real Animals
by Helaine Becker
illustrated by Alex Ries


Today's roboticists are closely looking at the animal world and inventing robots based on their unique abilities. Working prototypes include the Shrewbot, whose computerized whiskers mimic those on the pygmy shrew, the Stickybot III, that can climb walls and ceilings like a gecko, and the Aquajelly, whose movements mimic a jellyfish's contractions.

The specs for each robot are presented in point form, while short paragraphs provide facts about the animals that inspired the bot and its various uses.

Creepy and informative, Zoobots is especially appealing to science fiction fans and reluctant readers.






Robots: From Everyday to Out of This World
(Kids Can Press)


This is an interesting look at the history of robots and their development from mechanical toys to bionic prostheses. The multitude of photos should keep kids engaged for a long time.


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