GRAPHIC NOVELS

Emotional Robots: A Question of Existence

by Alex Zohar & Greg Fass & Jake Richardson
Princeton Architectural. May 2021. 80p. ISBN 9781648960390. pap. $16.95. GRAPHIC NOVELS
COPY ISBN
This graphic novel is a satirical and provocative exploration of generational conflict through the metaphor of robots. It begins in the future, with humans and robots living in harmony. Soon the robots advance to replace humans, and the humans, no longer having a purpose, leave Earth for a different planet. With the humans gone, the robots go on to create the next generation of robots, which leads to the eventual obsolescence of the first generation. But then, the new generation deems the older robots valuable for their wisdom, and they exist in harmony.
VERDICT This graphic novel is structured like a children’s picture book, which complements the genre well. The illustrations are simple in execution, but full of hidden gems which heighten the overall comedy significantly. The tone is a hybrid of A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo, by John Oliver, and Pat the Zombie: A Cruel (Adult) Spoof, by Aaron Ximm. It tackles primarily political topics and contains mature content; it would be great for any adult graphic novel collection.
Reviewed by Thomas Beheler, Arlington Public Libraries, VA , Jun 04, 2021
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

GRAPHIC NOVELS

Past Tense: Facing Family Secrets and Finding Myself in Therapy
by Mardou, Sacha
GRAPHIC NOVELS

Soseki Natsume’s Botchan: The Manga Edition
by Natsume, Soseki
GRAPHIC NOVELS

The Hidden Life of Trees: A Graphic Adaptation
by Wohlleben, Peter & Fred Bernard
GRAPHIC NOVELS

Masterpiece
by Bendis, Brian Michael
GRAPHIC NOVELS

Cemetery Kids Don’t Die, Vol. 1
by Thompson, Zac
GRAPHIC NOVELS

Caravaggio: The Palette and the Sword, Vol. 1
by Manara, Milo
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?