We need to talk about Kevin. For he is the central character in a fabulous book by hugely talented Shinsuke Yoshitake. Those who have already caught up with Shinsuke's awesome books ("It Might Be an Apple" is another essential purchase) will know what they're in store for here.
Kevin is tired. Like most kids today, he feels that there just aren't enough hours in the day (this was a theme that had Charlotte nodding furiously as she juggled piano practice, recorder practice, mental maths homework and the all-important business of actually being a child and playing with stuff).
Kevin has had about enough, so he scrapes together his meagre savings and heads off into town to the Robot Emporium. Kevin is going to buy the cheapest robot he can, and train it to be a replacement for himself, leaving him free to pursue his increased leisure time. WIN WIN!
Kevin purchases a rather cool little green robot - but in order for the robot to 'become' Kevin, it needs to know absolutely everything there is to know about him.
Kevin is happy to provide every little detail about himself. Shinsuke's fabulous illustrative skills come into play here in the various humorous diagrams detailing Kevin's life (and some of his more icky bodily functions).
There's also a glorious punchline and pay off right at the end (no spoilers but it's hilarious!) as Kevin's new robotic friend puts his knowledge to the test in the toughest way possible!
We have loved this to bits, it's so fresh-feeling and funny and it's made us doubly resolute to find out all we can about Shinsuke's books, we need them ALL if they're all as good as this (and I'm sure they are!)
Charlotte's favourite bit: The fantastic machine that Kevin dreams up to deliver him to all his various destinations (basically a gigantic octopoid slide thingy is about the only way we can describe it!)
Daddy's favourite bit: A hugely original and thoroughly absorbing investigation into the things you know about yourself (and the things you think you know!). I just loved the bit where the Robot is interviewing people Kevin knows for more insider info (his classmates are hilarious!)
(Kindly sent to us for review by Thames and Hudson)
"Can I build Another Me?"
Written and Illustrated by Shinsuke Yoshitake
Published by Thames and Hudson
Publication Date: 16th April 2016