They're people, but they in some ways have a poor sense of what children need, and adding a human influence into the household seems likely to be beneficial.
That's a satisfying ending, and a happier one than I looked for. You've managed to tell an interesting story of conflict with no villains—just different understandings, some of which have the potential to go somewhere harmful. And the way it unfolds make me wonder just how consciously strategic Johnson's moves and statements are; you suggest that this isn't her first time on this ride. . . .
One of the premises is that the Code Police were stood up after various incidents proved the need for them. They're competent enough to send an experienced agent to a situation which is more of an edge case than usual. The bots are doing their best with orders that were intended for a day trip but wound up being for years. Johnson knows what the "triggers" for the bots are, and is careful to avoid them as much as possible.
But... They're people. They're Chester's family!
What they need is a priest.
Do they think like people? Yes. Do they care for Chester like people? Yes.
Are they legally people? No, not yet.
YET.
I like that.
They're people, but they in some ways have a poor sense of what children need, and adding a human influence into the household seems likely to be beneficial.
That's a satisfying ending, and a happier one than I looked for. You've managed to tell an interesting story of conflict with no villains—just different understandings, some of which have the potential to go somewhere harmful. And the way it unfolds make me wonder just how consciously strategic Johnson's moves and statements are; you suggest that this isn't her first time on this ride. . . .
One of the premises is that the Code Police were stood up after various incidents proved the need for them. They're competent enough to send an experienced agent to a situation which is more of an edge case than usual. The bots are doing their best with orders that were intended for a day trip but wound up being for years. Johnson knows what the "triggers" for the bots are, and is careful to avoid them as much as possible.
Maureen Johnson — is the name a Heinlein allusion?
Probably a subconscious one, yes. I wanted a female name conveying firm authority and that's what the brain popped up with.