Bulldozer Helps Out (Bulldozer Books)

PreS-Gr 1--The cute yellow construction vehicle from Bulldozer's Big Day is back on the job. He's easy to relate to, like the smallest child on the playground who's not allowed to join the game. The other members of his group--Cement Mixer, Crane, Digger, Dump Truck, Roller, Scraper, and Grader--call the shots. On this busy day at the site, Bulldozer is the only one who doesn't have a task. When he asks to help, he's sent to clear a small grassy area strewn with metal and bricks. There, he comes face-to-face with a project that even the toughest truck would quail at. This is a wonderful second "Bulldozer" collaboration from Fleming and Rohmann. VERDICT With dramatic and captivating block print illustrations, a well-told and engaging story, and an all-star cast of vehicular characters, this is a must-have for preschoolers starting a love affair with things with wheels.--Susan Weitz, formerly at Spencer-Van Etten School District, Spencer, NY

Fleming and Rohmann subvert expectations several times in this handsomely illustrated follow-up to Bulldozer's Big Day. Initially, it looks like a familiar too-small-to-help construction story. Then, after Bulldozer is asked to flatten out a section of terrain, it seems like he has fallen asleep on the job. The reality--that he's protecting a mother cat and her kittens--comes as a tender surprise, which underscores the idea that talents come in all shapes and sizes. Many parents, meanwhile, will likely side with Dump Truck, who quips, "Taking care of babies? Now that's a rough, tough job." Ages 4-7. Agent: Ethan Ellenberg, Ethan Ellenberg Agency. (May)