ZOOM! ZOOM!
Sounds of Things That Go in the City
by Robert Burleigh ; illustrated by Tad Carpenter
An energetic, multivehicle ride through a bustling city day.
A cheerful sun awakens a sleeping metropolis, and garbage trucks and joggers take to the streets. With each spread, the day progresses. Rhyming text, jam-packed with action, propels the day forward, as each refrain announces the inhabitants’ intentions: “Work time,” “Lunch time,” “Play time,” “Party time.” Exuberant onomatopoeia incorporated into the artwork follows the refrains, as trucks vroom, vans dash, and firetrucks flash. The frenetic pace finally slows at day’s end, as stores close, parties come to an end, and revelers walk home. Hushed tones denote the need for sleep. Carpenter’s retro-styled computer illustrations have a simple charm. Each spread offers something of interest, whether in pattern, composition or character. Done in a simple palette primarily of yellow, blue and red, with a base tone reminiscent of newsprint, the cheery artwork also captures the activity and grit of the city.
Young vehicle-lovers will rev their engines for more.
(Picture book. 2-6)