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.
