D is for Dump Truck

January 1, 2017

PreS-Gr 1-D is for "dump truck" and T is for "tape measure" in this A-Z journey to build a backyard tree house. Each letter of the alphabet describes a different part of the construction process with a rhyming verse and full-color illustrations. This is not your typical alphabet picture book, as Q is for "quad-axle truck," and the text is detailed and includes vocabulary that may be unfamiliar to young children. A glossary of potentially unfamiliar terms is appended. This book will appeal to children who have an interest in learning factual information about the construction process. A few of the selections are less than inspiring. For example, A is for "alarm": "Alarm goes off. Hip-hip-hooray!/The wait is over. Today's the day." And G is for "grab": " 'Grab a hard hat, ' the foreman says./'We need protection for our heads.' " VERDICT Recommended for additional purchase, this book is suitable for young vehicle and construction enthusiasts.-Kristen Todd-Wurm, Middle Country Public Library, NY

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2017
With ready-made appeal for machine and tool lovers, this alphabet book shows a construction crew helping a family build an elaborate treehouse. Each letter introduces a tool or construction step with two rhyming couplets. Despite singsong tendencies, the text maintains alphabetic integrity without losing the work's flow. Soft-toned illustrations with rounded edges and smiling workers underscore the book's friendly vibe. Glos.

(Copyright 2017 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)