Summary
Peter Brown's The Wild Robot Escapes is the highly anticipated sequel to his bestselling children's novel The Wild Robot. Released in 2018, this science fiction adventure continues the story of Roz, a robot who must navigate the challenges of the civilized world after her time on a remote island. Brown's unique blend of technology and nature explores themes of adaptation, belonging, and the meaning of home.
The book has received critical acclaim, earning starred reviews from publications like Booklist and School Library Journal. It was selected as a Junior Library Guild book and included on several “best of” lists, including Booklist's “Top 10 Incredible Journeys in Middle-Grade Novels.” Brown's engaging storytelling and thought-provoking themes have resonated with readers of all ages.
Plot
In “The Wild Robot Escapes,” Roz the robot finds herself transported from her wild island home to Hilltop Farm, a dairy operation run by the Shareef family. Despite her attempts to conform to her programmed role as a farm assistant, Roz can't shake her longing for her previous life in nature. She begins to communicate with the farm animals, sharing stories of her island experiences.
Word of Roz's situation reaches her adopted son Brightbill, the gosling she raised on the island. Determined to rescue his robot mother, Brightbill embarks on a journey to find her. With the help of the Shareef children, who have grown fond of Roz, a daring escape plan is set in motion. Roz and Brightbill finally reunite and set off on their quest to return to their island home.
However, their journey is fraught with obstacles and dangers. As they navigate through various landscapes, from bustling cities to dense forests, Roz and Brightbill encounter both helpful allies and threatening foes. They must use their wits and Roz's unique abilities to overcome challenges and evade capture by those who would return Roz to her manufacturers.
The pair's adventure is a test of their resilience and the strength of their bond. As they face each new hurdle, Roz grapples with questions about her identity as a robot living in a world dominated by humans and animals. Their quest becomes not just about returning home, but also about Roz finding her place in a complex world where the lines between nature and technology are increasingly blurred.
Themes
Adaptation and survival in unfamiliar environments
The conflict between nature and technology
The meaning of family and belonging
The journey of self-discovery and identity
The power of empathy and connection
The struggle for freedom and autonomy
The impact of human civilization on the natural world
Setting
The Wild Robot Escapes takes place in a near-future setting where advanced robots coexist with humans and animals. While the exact era is not specified, the technology depicted suggests a time not too far removed from our own. The story unfolds across diverse environments, from rural farmlands to bustling urban centers, showcasing the contrast between natural and man-made worlds.
The narrative begins at Hilltop Farm, a dairy operation run by the Shareef family. This agricultural setting serves as Roz's initial point of reentry into human society. As the story progresses, the geographical scope expands significantly. Roz's journey takes her through various landscapes, including forests, highways, and cities, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for the robot protagonist.
Characters
Roz: The protagonist robot who gained sentience and learned to survive in the wild. She longs to return to her island home and adopted son Brightbill. Roz is caring, intelligent, and determined to escape the farm and reunite with her family. Her journey challenges her to navigate human society while staying true to herself.
Brightbill: Roz's adopted goose son from the island. He is fiercely loyal to Roz and flies a great distance to help rescue her from the farm. Brightbill is brave and resourceful, playing a key role in Roz's escape plan.
Jaya and Jad Shareef: The children of the family that owns Hilltop Farm. They befriend Roz and help her escape. Jaya and Jad are kind-hearted and see Roz as more than just a robot.
Mr. and Mrs. Shareef: The owners of Hilltop Farm. They view Roz as property and a tool to help run their dairy farm.
RECO Units: Robot enforcement units tasked with capturing Roz. They relentlessly pursue her throughout her journey.
Various Animals: Different animals Roz encounters and communicates with during her escape, including cows, dogs, cats, and wild creatures. They often provide her with information or assistance.
Quick facts
It is the sequel to Brown's bestselling book The Wild Robot, published in 2016.
The book was published on March 13, 2018 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.
It continues the story of Roz the robot as she tries to return to her island home and adopted son Brightbill.
The story explores themes of what it means to be “different” and the nature of love and selfhood.
It received starred reviews from publications like Booklist and School Library Journal.
The audiobook version was named to the Association for Library Service to Children's list of Notable Children's Recordings in 2019.
It was included on Booklist's “Top 10 Incredible Journeys in Middle-Grade Novels” list in 2018.
The book features Roz adapting to life on a dairy farm run by the Shareef family.
It incorporates elements of science fiction while remaining accessible to young readers.
The book is part of a larger series, with a third installment The Wild Robot Protects released in 2023.
About the Author
Peter Brown is an acclaimed American writer and illustrator best known for his children's picture books. Growing up in New Jersey, he developed a passion for storytelling through drawing and writing. Brown's artistic journey led him to study illustration at Art Center College of Design, where he discovered his calling in children's literature.
After graduating, Brown moved to New York City to pursue a career in publishing. His breakthrough came with his debut picture book, Flight of the Dodo, which launched his successful career as an author and illustrator. Brown's creative work has garnered numerous accolades, including a Caldecott Honor for Creepy Carrots!, multiple E.B. White Awards, and several New York Times bestsellers.
Brown's portfolio includes beloved titles such as The Curious Garden, Children Make Terrible Pets, and The Wild Robot series. His unique storytelling style and whimsical illustrations have captivated readers of all ages. Brown's work often explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the relationship between nature and technology.
Currently residing in Maine with his wife and dog, Peter Brown continues to inspire young readers with his imaginative tales and distinctive artistic style. His contributions to children's literature have earned him a place among the most respected figures in the field, with his books translated into multiple languages and enjoyed by children worldwide.
