Eager

Eager is similar to Asimov's classic, I, Robot, but definitely geared toward children. When the Bell family robot, Grumps, begins malfunctioning, they begin to search for a new one. Gavin and Fleur are saddened but also excited by the prospect of the new robot they might get. Mr. Bell's professor friend gives them a chance to try out a new robot, EGR3, that has the ability to think on its own and feel. EGR3, or Eager, as he comes to be known, is taken on as Grump's assistant, but as he slowly realizes how humanity treats robots, he begins to worry about death. Fleur's best friend replaces her as a friend with a life-like robot that she spends all her time with, and the shiny, new BDC4's seem to be up to something. Eager explores what it means to be human by looking at robots. The book raises questions about morality and relationship, all while being suspenseful and entertaining. The plot moves quickly, and it twists and turns are you're never truly sure of the motivations of the BCD4's. Kids, 9-12 especially, but really anyone who loves intelligent and inquisitive characters will love Eager, both the book and the robot.