Jim McMullan

Just like his counterpart the garbage truck from I Stink (opens in a new window) (Harper), this very confident and informative fire truck enjoys showing off all of his parts. Firefighter and truck aficionados will appreciate the overview of working trucks and firefighting.

Umm! growls the bodacious backhoe loader as he gets dirtier with each pile of trash he gathers as he cleans up a vacant lot. The countdown from 10 to 1 is gross, alliterative, and sure to engage children who enjoy things that move (not to mention yucky!).

A range of poetic styles, some rooted in the authors’ family, are shared in this handsome, easily accessible collection. Attractive illustrations are sprinkled throughout, building the joy when the poems are shared, even when listening to the beautifully read CD.