The Little Snowplow Wishes for Snow

July 15, 2019
Mother Nature doesn't always play fair when it comes to hopes and dreams. After having proven his worth in The Little Snowplow (2015), the titular hero returns to face a hitherto unforeseen challenge. While he's perfectly happy to aid the Mighty Mountain Road Crew during the warm months, this snowplow yearns endlessly for the return of frozen precipitation. As the months grow colder and the temperature plummets, he gazes at weather reports, drives to the tops of mountains, and celebrates the winter solstice, desperate for big wet flakes. But by the time his March birthday approaches, it looks like a thick snowfall may never happen. Then, on the day in question, the miraculous occurs. But can it be possible to have too much of a good thing? Luckily, the snowplow has his friends to help him out. Any child who has ever gazed longingly at a steely winter sky will identify with this snowplow's ceaseless expectations. Parker's illustrations give the snowplow an expressive grille, capable of conveying hope as well as crushing disappointment. The jollity is palpable, although the book may serve as a depressingly timely tale in this era of global warming. Best suited for those who scan the winter skies. (Picture book. 3-6)

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October 1, 2019

PreS-K-In this apt sequel to the creative team's The Little Snowplow, the overly eager little plow longs for some wintry weather. Mother nature just doesn't oblige. Meanwhile, Little Snowplow helps the other trucks on the Mighty Mountain Road Crew do their jobs. As the cold winds start to blow, Little Snowplow runs through his exercises and pores over the forecast. January and February plod on and there's still no snow. It's not until Little Snowplow wakes up on his birthday in March that the ground is covered in snow! He must plow the town multiple times as the storm keeps coming, however, his friends are ready to celebrate with him at the end of the day. The artwork is rendered in pencil with muted digital coloring. The facial and physical expressions of the trucks add to the character-driven story. At times the pace is a little slow; however, remaining steadfast when faced with disappointment incorporates an upbeat lesson. Additionally, the story encapsulates the changing of the seasons, even mentioning activities during certain months. VERDICT A seasonal addition to most collections that's sure to appeal to young vehicle fanatics.-Richelle Rose, Kenton County Public Library, KY

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