Biedrzycki, David. ArtIficial Intelligence. David Biedrzycki, Illus. Charlesbridge, 10/2024. [50]pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.99. 978-1-62354-374-7. GRADES Preschool–1. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
What happens when a robot is “defective” due to a habit of daydreaming? He gets sent to be reprogrammed, accidentally leaves the factory by “going outside,” explores the city, and ends up at a place that thrills him—the art museum. Upon returning to the factory, he tries to tell the other robots about art, then shows them by painting all over the warehouse, with the result that he gets to continue painting instead of being recycled. Illustrations made with pencil, Photoshop, and Procreate dazzle the eyes with the artwork the robot both discovers and creates. A great example to use when talking about the importance of art and how the creative process works, as well as how being different is okay.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library