Fledgling car-enthusiasts can learn all about the wonderful world of automobiles as Sam proudly touts the merits of his zippy red car. From oil changes to filling up at the gas station, short sentences take readers on a basic tour of car care and maintenance. “I love my car. I keep my car clean.” Even the complex workings of a car’s innards are rendered comprehensible under Sam’s tutelage, giving readers a simple overview of the chassis and body. Barton highlights all the things youngsters find so intriguing about automobiles, such as the marvels of headlights and windshield wipers. He also includes safety tips for good measure, giving future drivers an awareness of responsible driving: Sam diligently follows the rules of the roads and observes all the traffic signs. Lo and behold, when Sam arrives to work, he drives a bus for a living, saying farewell to readers with a jaunty toot of the bus’s horn. Byron taps into a child’s wonder at what adults often perceive as mundane—and suddenly an ordinary car becomes a fascinating mystery to be explored. The neon bright artwork featuring stout-figured people and objects is tailor-made for young audiences. With a dazzling kaleidoscope of energetic hues illuminating the pages, small children will be entranced by this appealing tale. (Picture book. 2-5)
