What it means to be human - children's story about robots.

Intriguing and exciting story in the vein of I Robot, A.I. and The Wizard of Oz. In this world, there are robotic laws to control the mechanoids created by humans, one of which is that these creations are only allowed to be child-sized.

With Absalom, a sub-par engineer, a group of mechanicals eke out a living, having bonded together as friends. The disparate group contains the usual mix of personalities, and includes a 'real boy', a 'proper' called Christopher who barely remembers the fire that orphaned him.

The plot is kickstarted after an accident with Christopher and his friends, and their loyalties are tested as nefarious forces move in...

I loved the group of mechanicals, such a loveable bunch of misfits, quirky and very close-knit. The whole idea of robotic children is a rather enthralling concept, and the action moves quickly to a rather thrilling denouement.

A few upsetting scenes (mechanicals fighting, the memories of being orphaned by fire), but suitable for readers aged around 10-14.