Facts vs. Opinions vs. Robots by Michael Rex

I find "current" picture books about politics, voting, etc. to be, well, annoying. I don't think they make any difference to kids. Maybe in a school library with some context, but not in a public library. Anyways, I was all prepared to dislike this one, but it turned out to be really good, both funny and informative, and what's more, it's actually written for kids, not adults!

The book begins, "Do you know the difference between a FACT and an OPINION?" Current evidence suggests that many people, adults and children, find this a confusing concept. Not to worry, robots are here to help! We'll start with some questions and statements about the robots. Is one blue? Do any of them have three eyes? These things can be proven true or false and are facts. Now for another question - which robot is the most fun? This is an opinion. It depends on who's asking, who's answering, and what your criteria are (the book does not use the word "criteria" but I totally would add it.)

The book continues asking questions, helping readers figure out the difference between a fact and an opinion, as well as showing how opinions can be made facts with more data, or can change when new and different data is added. After an argument over ice cream flavors, the robots also model respect for each other's opinions and show how they can either compromise or make their own choices.

Verdict: Rex's colorful robots, bold text, and helpful questions make this not only a great classroom resource, but a fun storytime game to play. Recommended.

ISBN: 9781984816269; Published February 2020 by Nancy Paulsen; Review copy provided by publisher; Donated to the library