Trucker and Train

Trucker is used to being “bigger and stronger and tougher than anyone else on the road”; in his wake, the other vehicles “swayed and gasped... rattled and gulped.” But one day outside the city, Train comes through with an impressive whistle that leaves everyone awestruck. Feeling “smaller than he ever had before,” Trucker is relieved to see Train head into a station. But when he spies a broken-off gate at a nearby junction, he immediately rushes to block the intersection, causing the other vehicles to beep with annoyance—until Train barrels past and they realize the meaning of Trucker’s gesture. With frequent onomatopoeia, debut author Stark handles Trucker’s complex emotions with gentle sympathy. Kolar’s digital illustrations are similarly soft, with pale backdrops, undulating hills, curving roads, and vehicles made relatable with smiling faces. You don’t have to rule the road to be a hero, Stark and Kolar suggest, and that’s probably for the best. Ages 4–7. [em](Aug.) [/em]