Author Larry Richardson has written a story that captures the heart of a child very distinctly. Metal Mike is about a time in the life of his son, AJ when his best friend moves away. AJ has a hard time finding another really good friend. There are a lot of kids in the neighborhood, but none of them were Meemo (changed to Mike). AJ decides to create a robot, a friend who will never move away. The book is illustrated by Larry Richardson's teenage daughter, Brittany. Metal Mike is a compassionate look at heartbreak and resolution.