In the Lives of Puppets TJ Klune

TJ Klune's "In the Lives of Puppets" presents a mesmerizing journey into a curious forest inhabited by an extraordinary family of androids and one human. At its core is Giovanni Lawson, an inventor android acting as a father figure, along with his companions: a nurse machine with a pleasantly sadistic demeanor and a lovelorn vacuum cleaner. Victor Lawson, the lone human among them, completes this unconventional family unit.

The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Victor discovers and repairs an unfamiliar android named "HAP," unveiling a dark shared history between Hap and Gio—a history involving the hunting of humans. Hap inadvertently reveals their location, attracting robots from Gio's past who capture him and transport him to the City of Electric Dreams. Determined to rescue Gio from decommissioning or worse, the remaining family members embark on a perilous journey filled with fantastical encounters and unexpected challenges.

Drawing inspiration from "The Adventures of Pinocchio" while incorporating elements of "Swiss Family Robinson" and "Wall-E," Klune's storytelling is characterized by its charm, heart, and bittersweetness. Through themes of love, acceptance, and the restoration of faith, "In the Lives of Puppets" offers an epic quest for redemption and discovery. With its enchanting narrative and compelling characters, the novel promises an unforgettable standalone fantasy adventure.