Tow-Truck Pluck

Gr 2–4—Considered a classic children's book in the Netherlands (originally published in 1971), this title has been translated into English for today's children and includes the wonderful original illustrations. The tale begins with Pluck and his tow truck in a large city trying to find a home. Discovering that every home is taken, Pluck decides to spend the night in the city park when Dolly, a "beautiful fat pigeon," tells him about available space in a tower at the Pill Building, and Pluck quickly takes up residence. He soon meets the building's occupants: Mrs. Brightner, a germophobic older woman who carries a can of disinfectant with her wherever she goes; the Stamper family, a father and six small sons who have carpeted their floor with mattresses so as not to get in trouble with Mrs. Brightner, who lives below them; a cockroach named Zaza; and a host of other quirky, endearing characters. Pluck befriends Mrs. Brightner's daughter, Aggie, and involves her in some of his many adventures. The biggest moment comes when Pluck and his friends try to save Dovey Gardens from being cleared and paved, which would destroy the homes of a multitude of animals, some of them relatives of Pluck's friends. The book is divided into short, heavily illustrated chapters. The writing is reminiscent of that of Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle or Pippi Longstocking. Pluck always manages to save the day, and his tow truck comes in handy. Funny and endearing, this is a story to read, enjoy, and share. Some may be put off by the illustrated cover, which gives the impression that this selection is aimed at a younger audience, but if booktalked, this title could be unputdownable in the right hands.