Tinker - RoboTales, #1

Tinker has always dreamed of attending the Invention Institute where his late father was a teacher. When the school hosts the Recycle Race competition to choose a new apprentice, not only does Tinker hope to win a full scholarship, he believes the Institute can teach him how to fix his robot dog. Tinker must protect his invention from his uncle and cousins, who do everything they can to destroy Tinker's dream.
If you enjoyed "Tinker, " you'll love book two, "Mardok and the Seven Exiles!"