100 FIRST THINGS THAT GO

Clearly labeled images of both familiar and special-use vehicles help toddlers build vocabulary.

Two introductory pages of the general category “Around town” feature 13 common modes of transportation: a bicycle, bus, taxi, tram, etc. The next pages sort things that go by function or locale: in the air, on water, at the races, plus trucks, tractors, and rescue vehicles. Building equipment and mega-machines get their own pages too. Six to 10 somewhat static two-dimensional images on each page are shown against contrasting solid-color backgrounds. Some include action to talk about—like the stunt plane shown upside down, the fishing boat with fish in a net, or the firefighter rescuing a cat. The rectangular layout and consistent placement of the labels reinforce pre-reading skills. A double-page spread highlights 13 “Vehicle colors” while avoiding sexist stereotypes. (An ice cream truck is pink; a motor scooter is purple.) A page of “Make-believe” stretches the imagination, with fanciful modes of travel: broomstick, flying carpet, fairy wings, and more. “My things that go” highlights toys that move: a trike, roller skates, a rocking horse, a paper plane, etc. The colorful images and uncluttered layout made possible by an extra-large (11 inches square) trim make this book suitable for both shared readings and independent study.

Ideal for babies and toddlers who just go, go, go! (Board book. 1-3)