
4 out of 4 stars
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My Big Tow Book #2 by Kyle Chirgwin is an informative children's book, the second installment in a series. A five-year-old Darren loves to play with his toy tow truck. He calls it "Big Blue." Darren has a sister, Kaylee, a loving Auntie Lisa, and two Labradors, Kody and Balto. While playing with Big Blue, Darren imagines himself as Captain Recovery, a skilled tow operator always ready to conduct necessary recovery work. Teamed with Chief Hoffy and his crew from the fire department, Captain Recovery helps them to avoid potentially dangerous situations. Kody is always by his side while Balto assists Kaylee and Auntie Lisa at the base.
I like that the book describes the work of tow truck operators in vivid detail. In my opinion, the narrative is very engaging. Also, the kids have an opportunity to learn many new terms regarding the towing business. It would expand their vocabulary and inspire them to learn more about this interesting profession. I liked the friendship and cooperation between Darren and his sister, Kaylee. For example, Darren wants Kaylee to be included in his games with Big Blue. It is worth mentioning that the book sends out an important for children message about safety on the roads and environment protection as Captain Recovery with the fire department crew tries to prevent fuel leakage to the drain system. Another great aspect of the book is that it encourages children to love animals. Kody and Balto are lovable four-legged characters, and the scenes with Captain Recovery playing with both dogs or patting Kody before getting to work are touching. Also, I like that the book motivates children to be creative and follow their imagination.
I found some mistakes, like a missing comma before the direct address. Nevertheless, I would say that the book was professionally edited. At the same time, I would suggest another round of proofreading as the writing style requires some improvements. The author overuses the conjunction "and." Thus, the sentences are too long. For example, "Captain Recovery backs Big Blue up to the train engine’s back side and after giving Kody a nice pat on the head, to which Kody responds with a “woof,” and he hops out of Big Blue." It was my less favorite aspect of the book.
Nevertheless, I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. I didn't take away a star because of the high educational value of the book and the wonderful bright illustrations by gifted Lynn Mohney.
I recommend this book to children from 6 to 10 years of age. Parents and teachers would enjoy the adventures of Captain Recovery, for this inspirational book provides us with many captivating details of tow truck operators' everyday tasks and activities.
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My Big Tow Book#2
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