This is an intriguing little story. I'm not sure I agree with the suggestion that this is for fans of The Wild Robot - that is a survival story, at it's core, with the robot as the main character. This is more of a coming of age story. There are robots on an island, but they are more of a side aspect than the main aspect. Almost a Deus Ex Machina, actually. (ha, machina.)
Uncle Tod is an obvious villain - made me think of Count Olaf, actually. He doesn't treat Willis very well, doesn't really care about Willis, and of course, makes Willis steal, even though Willis doesn't want to. But all the other adults say that Willis should listen to his uncle. Trigger warning for any kids who come from a neglectful or abusive background, though Tod doesn't hit Willis ever. I found the portrayal of Willis's guilt over being compelled to steal very interesting, though again, that could definitely not be great for some people.
I like all the supporting characters as well, each clearly distinct and a good mix of characteristics. Mrs. Shorthouse is very sweet, and her niece is such a clear teen, it's great.
There is a point in the story where Willis goes missing from everyone else's point of view, and his friends decide they need to solve the mystery; it kind of frustrated me because they were not at all very efficient or effective - they did NOT make a good detective story. (Though it was probably more realistic to how children would actually solve a mystery.) But that's probably more of a personal pet peeve than an actual ding against the story.

My son and I read this book together! We both really enjoyed it. It was a fun & imaginative book that I would recommend to others!

Perfect for pre teens exploring identity and friendship. Isaac was a relatable character and perfect for fans of Wild Robot! I did have some pacing issues reading, and found the change of perspective hard to follow. Still would absolutely recommend!

Robot Island by Cary Fagan is a delightful and imaginative adventure that’s equal parts heartwarming and thought-provoking. I was immediately pulled into the story of Isaac, a robot who wakes up on a mysterious island with no memory of how he got there. His journey to figure out the truth—and his place in the world—is touching, funny, and surprisingly profound.
The writing is clever and accessible, making it a great read for middle grade readers, but it also has deeper themes about identity, purpose, and friendship that older readers will appreciate too. The mix of humor and heart is spot-on, and the world Fagan creates is vivid and engaging.
Perfect for fans of The Wild Robot or The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, Robot Island is a story that stays with you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this gem!

This book had a promising storyline but falls flat in execution. An island of robots that has been hidden away for decades? That's seriously cool. What's not cool however is the way the author switches first person narratives halfway through the book. I was also irritated by inclusion of one character's thoughts on whether or not he might be gay. This really shouldn't be included in juvenile book, and it doesn't play into the main plot at all. The only reason I can think of it being included is to check some sort of box so that the book is seen as progressive.