Age 00-04. 4 Stars. Richard Scarry had a tremendous gift for telling stories that, while simple in plot, are rich in visual detail so that, having been read aloud once, they provide hours of entertainment for prereaders to enjoy at their leisure… In this book, Scarry introduces individual citizens of Busytown, then tells short stories about specific projects they are involved in… Each story demonstrates the value of work, both for the individuals who perform it and those who enjoy its effects. It’s a wonderfully orienting book, helping even very young children understand the interworkings of their society.

Age 04-08. 4 stars. These stories are based on the real workings of a British rail yard, and they center around the activities of Thomas the Tank Engine, who is likable, hard-working and often cheeky. He and his friends the other engines have distinct personalities, and many of their adventures and conflicts hinge on character flaws and lessons learned through mistakes. Although sometimes heavy-handed, Awdry’s well-written stories illustrate the consequences of pride, self-importance and foolishness as well as the importance of friendship and respect….. While all children who like trains ought to enjoy them, these stories will probably have a special appeal to young boys.

Age 04-08. 4 Stars. This story rounds out the trilogy begun with My Father’s Dragon… This is more of the same fun fare that characterized the first two books, capitalizing on the mystique of dragons which makes Elmer’s participation in their lives quite a romantic adventure. Again, Elmer would set a better example by confiding in his parents, but the lighthearted and fanciful nature of this adventure may help young readers interpret his behavior without emulating his secrecy.

Age 00-04. 4 Stars. This classic book tells the story of a train whose engine stalls out before it can get over the last mountain to deliver toys and food to the good children on the other side of the mountain. The toys begin to flag down passing engines to take them the rest of the way. Several engines refuse, but a little blue engine agrees to try, even though she has never pulled such a heavy load. Through generous good will and tenacity she makes it over hill. The well-written and original plot, and the pleasantly repetitive “I think I can… I thought I could” has ensured its popularity for over sixty years.

Age 04-08. 4 of 5 Stars. Ma, Pa, Penny and Pickles the pigs are going on a drive to picnic at the beach. Their journey provides a visual experience of multiple scenes of vehicles, trains, and construction scenes…. Children will pore over the pictures and ask many questions about them.

Age 00-04. 4 Stars. This is a wonderful new interpretation of the original “Freight Train”….. This book will keep the attention of babies and young children, and augments their understanding of the train’s purpose. Wonderful.

Age 00-04. 3 Stars. This is a simple presentation of the different cars on a freight train, with rhythmic text describing each car…. This is good for the transition from looking at pictures to understanding stories, especially if the young reader can have exposure to a real train.