One early morning, a young narrator greets Digger, the backhoe. Digger responds: “Grrr-clank!” its big teeth digging and lifting as it scrapes a hole in the earth. Soon Dump Truck arrives, rumbling and rattling. As the scene widens the reader can see that the hole, set among inner city buildings, is expanding. When the Digger has done his job, a cement mixer arrives, then a tall crane. Soon girders rise up among the banging and clanging of heavy machinery and busy men in yellow hats. Skipping a few steps, a brick building, abruptly appears. Where once was a dirt pit, is now a new community center. For readers fond of Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel this will pale in comparison, but Rockwell conveys a glowing message with the construction of a place for creative gathering. The toy-like appearance of the characters and trucks and the spring-bright palette will appeal to the youngest in the all-things-wheeled-and-noisy set. Youngsters, moreover, will have a blast hearing and making the mechanical sound effects. (Picture book. 2-6)
