Jill Bretherton

Robert the Lonely Jill Bretherton

Robert the Lonely is essential reading for any child who is active online. A modern day cautionary tale warning children about online stranger danger in an age appropriate way. Aimed at readers age 6 and up, this book is packed with fun and spooky illustrations to keep your child interested and engaged with the story to the end.


Robert finds himself living all alone in a large, dusty and dark mansion. One day he finds that the computer has been left on, so he starts connecting online with children who aren't afraid to connect with strangers like him. Eventually, Robert builds up enough confidence to ask three of the children round to his mansion for a playdate. Who knows what will happen next.

Included at the end of this book is a questionnaire to help parents and teachers navigate discussions about their child's understanding of the story, and more broadly the dangers lurking on internet, with their child or class.

This book will: Help children understand the abstract (to them) concept of online stranger danger,
Help reading and comprehensions skills more generally,
Facilitate discussions between parents and their children about internet safety,
Help parents assess their child's understanding and comprehension of the dangers.

This book and questionnaire has been endorsed by Child protection officers.