101 TRUCKS

This oversized board book covers trucks of all types, from construction vehicles to farming equipment.

There really are 101 different trucks, and readers can even see (and count!) them all together on the final spread. Each double-page spread features a different truck type, with a short description. The accompanying illustrations show one in action on the verso while the recto presents stand-alone, labeled pictures of an additional 15 or more. The text itself is simple and straightforward. The general, brief descriptions of each type are helpful, but none of the individual trucks have explanations. Because the illustrations largely appear with no context, this can make understanding the work of the less-common vehicles—the “cold planer,” for example—a challenge. Additionally, some trucks are listed under confusing headings. The bookmobile is listed as a “helper” truck even though the “carriers” are defined on the previous spread as “bring[ing] books or baggage.” The illustrations are cute, all rendered so that the front headlights and grille become facial features. Even with this anthropomorphization, each still has an impressive amount of detail. Enthusiasts will love the inclusion of lesser-known trucks such as the “trencher” and “storm chaser” and will also delight in seeing familiar favorites.

It doesn’t dig deep for truck information, but it hauls high-interest illustrations for young fanatics.