Towed by Toad

PreS-Gr 1–Toad and his tow truck spend a long day rescuing other animals whose vehicles have broken down. He declines his father’s offers of breakfast and lunch, saying he is in too much of a hurry to be a “helper” to his neighbors. When Toad’s own truck has a mechanical failure, he grows increasingly frustrated at his inability to “fix his own problem,” and breaks down in tears before accepting that “Everyone needs help sometimes. Even the helpers.” After Toad finally calls for assistance, his own father comes to the rescue in an even larger tow truck, and the two finally share a meal back home. The text is brief and Awan’s digital illustrations are clear and easy to see from a distance, making this an excellent choice for story hours. The social-emotional lesson is direct without being heavy-handed, and Toad and his tow truck are sure to be popular with children who have an endless appetite for vehicle books. Large print, short sentences, and simple, rhyming vocabulary make this a good choice for newly independent readers as well.