logs, six dandelions, and a worm for
the emerald ash borer.
On Friday, he carried fifty-two bushy
ferns and one large boulder for five
very full ladybugs and their chatty
friend Todd."
Wheetle is a little red wagon determined to do everything he can to make the days better for everyone he calls a friend. Before he leaves home in the morning, he prepares himself with a smile and a check of the calendar. It's telling him that his favorite morning of the year is quickly approaching.
Then, he's out the door, ready to do what he can do for those in need. The tasks range from offering rides, carrying all manner of things across a rickety bridge, up a hill and down that same hill. He never refuses a request. Being a wagon has determined his life's work, it seems.
All is well until his back tire begins to wear down. Each day following Wheedle continues with helping the beetles, the marmorated stink bug, the emerald ash borer and a load of ladybugs, wheel squeaking all the while. After all the hard work, a very tired wee wagon settles in for the sleep needed to welcome the day he has been anticipating.
The next day begins with high hopes for the early morning journey. A call for help has him carrying three mud pies to the bog for a cicada. The tire squeaks louder, the road seems bumpier and finally the tire is done with trying. A flat means Wheetle is going to miss his most favorite thing. At exactly the right moment, friends and neighbors hoist him up and carry Wheetle along the path he continuously follows for them to the brilliance of the early morning sunrise!
Willing to remain helpful, he continues his daily work ... while taking the occasional day for himself.
Cindy Derby's text is charming in the details shared, especially when it comes to the cargo Wheetle carries. Her mixed media artwork is quirky and appealing, showing the emotions felt by the tiny wagon as he plies his trade for so many others.
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