Little Blue Truck Makes a Friend

LITTLE BLUE TRUCK MAKES A FRIEND is a delightful and charming picture book about meeting new friends. Little Blue Truck and Toad are driving along when the other animals come running to tell them about someone new who has moved in up the road. They are surprised by the new neighbor, who does not look quite like any of them. Little Blue seems to know what to do, and brings the animals along. When they all arrive, the animals do their best to hide, but Little Blue says hello and welcomes the new neighbor, Chuck, a woodchuck. Chuck is glad to meet new friends, and the other animals all follow Blue's lead to say hello and meet a new friend.

What I loved: This is such a charming and sweet story about making friends and meeting someone new - who may seem different in one way or another from you. Little Blue is more than happy to welcome the new neighbor with open arms, a great lesson for little ones who will meet plenty of new people in their classes and even in their neighborhoods. Although the animals are afraid, they soon learn that there is nothing to fear, and children are sure to giggle at their silly attempts to hide. This is a simple story but one that will resonate with children who are learning to make new friends themselves - with a lesson that kindness is the best way!

The book is told in rhyme as per the usual Little Blue style, and it has such a great rhythm that it rolls off the tongue and is both fun to read and to listen to. Another feature carried across books is the use of sounds, such as the Beep! for Blue and the noises that the animals make. This is great for young readers who will enjoy listening to and making the animal sounds along with the story. The font is clear and easy to read on each page, which is helpful for caregivers reading aloud and makes it work well in low light, such as at bedtime.

The illustrations are as fantastic as always with the expressive Little Blue Truck and animal friends on each page as well as a detailed backdrop and bright colors that will appeal to toddlers and preschoolers. Having recognizable characters in new situations is always a plus for young children who will appreciate seeing those they love in a new setting and a story that will resonate with them.

Final verdict: LITTLE BLUE TRUCK MAKES A FRIEND is a charming and delightful picture book featuring some great lessons about friendship and meeting someone new. This rhyming story and lovely illustrations will work perfectly for toddlers and preschoolers.