Robinson's New Thing

by Julia Mills, Julia Mills (Illustrator)

Overview

Calling all kid collectors! Julia Mills, the acclaimed creator of I Am Stuck, spins a funny new adventure about Robinson the raccoon, who loves to collect things. But when he meets a new friend, he discovers that memories and experiences make for the best collection of all. Perfect for fans of Memory Jars and In a Jar.

Robinson the raccoon loves to collect things—big and small. His collection is amazing. One day he collects a shell that turns out to be . . . Rosie the snail! Rosie is not impressed by Robinson’s stuff, and she takes him to see what she collects: breezes on the hilltop, the bubbles in the stream, and the magnificent northern lights. Robinson soon realizes that the best things to hold on to aren’t always things—instead, experiences with friends will last a lifetime. 

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780358695349
Publisher:	HarperCollins
Publication date:	03/04/2025
Pages:	48
Product dimensions:	8.40(w) x 11.00(h) x 0.50(d)
Age Range:	4 - 8 Years

About the Author

When Julia Mills was six years old, she discovered that there were many pictures of cats in the “C” volume of the encyclopedia. She attempted to draw and paint every single one and has been making art ever since. Julia is an author, illustrator, and public school art teacher. She lives in New Jersey with her husband and two kids.

When Julia Mills was six years old, she discovered that there were many pictures of cats in the “C” volume of the encyclopedia. She attempted to draw and paint every single one and has been making art ever since. Julia is an author, illustrator, and public school art teacher. She lives in New Jersey with her husband and two kids.

Editorial Reviews

(Robinson's New Thing) “Thought-provoking. It should spark fruitful discussions about what matters most in life, while the charming protagonists cut endearing figures in Mills’ cozy illustrations.” — Kirkus Reviews

(Robinson's New Thing) “This appealing picture book carries a gently delivered message.” — Booklist

(I Am Stuck) “This makes an easy pick for a social/emotional lesson storytime. A sweet look at pals supporting each other.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

(I Am Stuck) “The possum’s comforting companionship will convince even the youngest child that sometimes just being with a friend in trouble can help.” — School Library Journal

(I Am Stuck) “Mills’ bright, cartoonish watercolors are enticing. The help of a good friend resolves a sticky situation in this sweet tale.” — Kirkus Reviews

From the Publisher

2025-03-22
An avid collector learns a lesson in what really matters.

Robinson the raccoon has many objects, all of which bring him joy. When a snail named Rosie unexpectedly emerges from a shell he finds, Robinson proudly displays his collection: “Isn’t it the greatest you’ve ever seen?” After all, Robinson possesses so many things! But Rosie’s skeptical. When it’s time for Robinson to check out Rosie’s collection, the little snail directs him to a grassy field. Robinson’s incredulous: “There’s nothing here.” Rosie disagrees: “This is my collection of breezes.” Next, they visit the creek, where Rosie collects bubbles; the best part, says the snail, is that they’re uncatchable. One item’s left on Rosie’s agenda: a brilliant display of northern lights in the night sky. “Wow,” gasps Robinson. “I wish I could keep everything we saw today.” Rosie explains that they can—in their heads. Surveying his items back at home, Robinson realizes that they’re just things and that he derives greater pleasure remembering the breezes, bubbles, and warmth of Rosie’s friendship. Quiet and thought-provoking, if a bit purposeful, this tale has an adult sensibility; children may miss some of the essential points and likely won’t entirely abandon material possessions like Robinson does. Still, with guidance from caregivers or educators, it should spark fruitful discussions about what matters most in life, while the charming protagonists cut endearing figures in Mills’ cozy illustrations; the color-saturated depiction of the northern lights is especially eye-catching.

Gently conveyed insights on materialism.(Picture book. 4-7)

Kirkus Reviews