Monday 22 August 2022

The Gentle Bulldozer - Amy Baron, Illustrations Rogério Coelho

Being part of a construction vehicle family is tough for Bulldozer. Whilst Excavator and Backhoe happily and loudly sing their daily song of wrecking and smashing, Bulldozer barely whispers the ditty.

The need and love of breaking down and destroying something doesn’t sit well with him.

As these strong machines plow through their work, banging and cracking, debris flying around, Bulldozer quietly moves piles of dirt questioning why he needs to do this work.

When the crew begin to knock down a tree, Bulldozer can’t do it, he just can’t hurt a tree. He’s a disappointment to his family; he’s not tough but he’s supposed to be – he’s a bulldozer!

Taking off he drives for hours, thinking, when he happens across a farmer in trouble. A rainstorm is approaching, and his barn needs repairing. Can Bulldozer help the farmer? He’s supposed to be all about tearing down and demolition. How can he support the farmer and assist with keeping the animals warm and safe?

Baron’s portrayal of a construction vehicle with an identity crisis is endearing. Isn’t it fun to knock things down? Sure, but just not for the Gentle Bulldozer. Whilst the story is short, it’s still engaging and will capture the mind of many a young child (ages K and up). It’s accompanied by beautiful, sumptuous illustrations that really bring the characters to life.

The story of the gentler side of a bulldozer creates a warm cozy tale for children that shows them that you don’t need to be what everyone expects of you. Find your own dream and look inside yourself to find who you are and be happy with that – you’re okay, just as you are.

The Gentle Bulldozer is a narrative that has hidden depths that will appeal to parents and children alike. A highly recommended read.

 

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