Unboxing Libby by Steph Cherrywell - ISBN: 9780316577090
Hardcover
Android dolls discover shocking secrets, fight for their freedom.

Unboxing Libby

$37.23

  • Hardcover

    320 pages

  • Release Date

    10 June 2025

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Summary

AI meets American Girl Dolls in this quirky novel about a group of preteen androids who have been cast aside and have to make their own way in the world.

Max isn’t always sweet and bubbly. That wouldn’t be an issue except for the fact that she’s programmed to be. “Max” isn’t even her real name. She’s a Libby- one of the most popular A.I.Cademy Girl social robots, which top the sales charts for girls ages eight to twelve. They look almost human and there’s a companion …

Book Details

ISBN-13:9780316577090
ISBN-10:031657709X
Author:Steph Cherrywell
Publisher:Little, Brown & Company
Imprint:Little, Brown Young Readers
Format:Hardcover
Number of Pages:320
Release Date:10 June 2025
Weight:380g
Dimensions:196mm x 136mm x 32mm
What They're Saying

Critics Review

Praise for The Ink Witch:

* “This fast-paced, laugh-out-loud fantasy will appeal to fans of Roald Dahl and Terry Pratchett. Overflowing with evocative sensory descriptions, the top-notch worldbuilding includes unique creatures and locations and a creative magic system. Humor and heart entwine in this hilarious and wildly creative adventure.” Kirkus Reviews, starred review

* “Cherrywell (Unboxing Libby) weaves an emotionally rich tale of self-discovery and inner strength in this hilarious, heartfelt fantasy brimming with magic and memorable mythical creatures.” Publishers Weekly, starred review

“This is a charming, smart choice for readers hungry for gender-affirming stories that go beyond simplistic positivity, while the light touch and whimsical fantasy elements give it broader appeal as well.” BCCB


“This story, with its twists and turns, goes into many unexpected, ominous, and delightful places.”–BCCB
“Friendship issues, jealousies, and parental relationships are approached realistically, and readers will appreciate the feel-good message highlighting that it’s what’s inside that matters. Readers will likely find they have much in common with these Robot Dolls of the ­future, while considering what the future may have in store for who remain behind on Earth.”–School Library Journal
* “Cherrywell has crafted a riveting sf dramedy, complete with cautionary observations of our modern society, packaged neatly in a sweet (AI) teen’s POV. Between chapters, advertisements describing the book’s androids as products adds humor in a smart satirization of marketing, inviting readers to read between the lines. Any fan of friendship stories will adore this tale of a preteen robot finding her true self.”–Booklist, starred review
“The robots’ unlikely rebellion paves the way for self-actualization and -reflection, presenting existential ideas about personhood and commodification through a delightfully upbeat adventure.”–Publishers Weekly

“This charming, feel-good work turns the concept of robots resembling sentient American Girl-style dolls into a heartfelt exploration of self. Cherrywell’s debut thoughtfully delves into themes of self-exploration, bullying, friendship, and individuality…. An endearing story about being true to oneself.”

Kirkus

About The Author

Steph Cherrywell

Steph Cherrywell is a nonbinary librarian, author, illustrator, and game creator in the Milwaukee area. They have previously written and illustrated the YA-and-older graphic novels Widgey Q. Butterfluff and Pepper Penwell and the Land Creature of Monster Lake, and written and programmed the award-winning text adventures Brain Guzzlers from Beyond! and Zozzled. They love comics, science fiction, roleplaying games, and exploring the city by bicycle.

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