Robot Dreams by Sara Varon

Robot Dreams by Sara Varon is a wordless graphic novel about a dog and a robot. Dog buys a robot kit through the mail and once he builds the robot, they become best friends. They watch movies together, and even take a vacation to the beach together. Unfortunately, Robot goes into the water and becomes rusty. He can't move at all! Dog doesn't know what to do, and ends up leaving Robot on the beach. Months go by... Dog passes his time making friends with others, but always losing them. Robot spends his time dreaming of other places. When a beach comber finds Robot, he takes him to a salvage yard where he is later purchased by a raccoon who rebuilds him with a radio body. Meanwhile, Dog returns to the beach in search of Robot, but only finds part of his leg. Sadly, Dog goes to a store to purchase a new robot. He builds the new robot and takes him on vacation to the beach. He's learned his lesson, and won't let his new friend go in the water. Together, they walk home. They pass by Raccoon and Robot's window on their way home. Robot sees them and feels a little sad. But then, he plays a tune on his radio body and Dog and the new robot head home singing.

This was an amazing book! My 5 year old son read it with me and we both absolutely loved it. It was both touching and sweet. The illustrations were awesome! The characters' expressions were so clear. It was easy to understand despite there being no words. Follow this link to an illustrated interview with the author, Sara Varon.