DRIVE THE FIRE TRUCK

This board book puts readers behind the steering wheel of a fire truck on the way to an emergency.

When closed, the book forms a semicircle with the binding as the straight edge; opening it to the first page reveals two cutout handles on either side of what is now a circular book. With gauges and controls across the bottom, the perspective allows readers to imagine they are holding the steering wheel and driving a fire truck. The first page shows the rising garage door, and the subsequent pages have the truck approaching billowing smoke that comes into view ever closer and clearer. The rhyming text includes commands that urge readers to “push” the buttons on the steering wheel. For example, “Park the truck, extend the ladder” encourages readers to touch the yellow ladder control. The novelty of the perspective is thrilling fun for toddlers. Following the directions in the text, including which way to turn, helps bring the story to life. The illustrations are simple and bold, with added touches that highlight certain focal points such as yellow lightning bolts coming from the crackling radio. There are only a few pages where firefighters are shown, but the characters depicted vary in gender and racial presentation. Companion title Drive the Race Car puts readers into a high-speed race, complete with a pit stop and a checkered-flag win.

A refreshing and fun reimagining of the traditional board-book format.