Roth introduces children to the concept of commuting—mommies and daddies board a train, work all day and then come back home to their children to eat and play, snuggle, read and tuck them in. “The first one on is Fearless Cat. / See his bright red fireman’s hat.” He is followed by “a seal with meals, / a hen with a pen, / a roo in blue, / a bear who cares, / a duck who loves trucks, [and] a newt in his suit,” representing a chef, professor, police officer, doctor, mechanic and business executive. Rhyming verses and repetitive phrasing will appeal to young audiences, although the scansion is at times forced. Add to this mix an interesting variety of careers and some counting, and the result is a solid peek at the adult world for the youngest listeners. Lavis’s kindly animals are outfitted and equipped for easy identification with their professions. Bright colors and extra details are sure to keep children’s interest, while the large illustrations will facilitate group sharing. (Picture book. 2-5)
