cover image Barney the Bus

Barney the Bus

Ted Fuller. Windswept House Publications, $7.95 (37pp) ISBN 978-0-932433-49-7

In the same cartoony vein as Howie Schneider's Gus the Bus and Amos: The Story of an Old Dog and His Couch comes a new vehicular hero: a bus named Barney, who is ``out of tune.'' He's so gloomy that he hardly notices his pal Officer Kablonski, or any of the details of his route. Barney is being put out to pasture. First, he allows a tear to spill from his headlights. Then he heads off to an auction and faces brighter prospects. When he is purchased by a church, Barney finds himself called into service--with a new coat of paint--to carry Boy Scouts and other enthusiasts into the country. Although Barney's tears are a bit corny, this is a saucy work. Children, who anthropomorphize most vehicles, will love Barney's happy ending. No ages given. (Apr.)