Frank n Stan by M. P. Robertson

Copyright Frances Lincoln Children's Books, 2012. All rights reserved. Art by M.P. Robertson. Reproduced with permission from the publisher.

"Franklin P. Shelley often asked his mother if he could have a brother or sister but she just said, 'We'll see'."

With this simple opening line, M. P. Robertson introduces a new and delightful twist on both the classic Frankenstein story and the classic new sibling picture book plot. Unlike most children in new sibling books, Frank is actively intent on acquiring a younger sibling. With some ingenuity, robotics, spare parts, and hard work, he achieves his desire. Stan is everything Frank wanted in a brother, even if he's not quite what their parents had expected. He's soon part of the family. But, eagle-eyed readers following the changes in Frank's mom won't be surprised when Frank is suddenly presented with a baby sister, Mary. Just like Stan, Mary is soon part of the family. However, Stan feels left out and useless and it takes some love from both Frank and Mary to convince him he's still an important part of the family.

Robertson's art is the main draw of this picture book. As you can see in the samples, it's endlessly detailed with delightful nonsensical notes (Frank's vintage clothing), mechanical details in Stan's construction, and hidden jokes. Robertson's art always reminds me of a colored version of Brian Selznick and incipient fans will enjoy the elegant pen and watercolor illustrations that make up Robertson's steampunk world.

Verdict: Parents looking for a more positive take on the new sibling theme will snatch this one up, as will kids who like robots, funny stories, and enjoy poring over detailed illustrations. There are plenty of jokes for adults as well, so repeated readings won't bore parents. An excellent addition to any library's picture book collection, especially for older readers/listeners.

ISBN: 9781847801302; Published October 2012 by Frances Lincoln; Review copy provided by publisher; Added to the library

Copyright Frances Lincoln Children's Books, 2012. All rights reserved. Art by M.P. Robertson. Reproduced with permission from the publisher.