"Officer Puffin grabs
the headset and sounds the alarm.
The officers scramble into their
turnout gear. It weighs forty-five
pounds!
Hit the lights! Blast the sirens!
Firefighters to the rescue!
Little ones will absolutely fall in love with this book the minute they see the endpapers. Breezy Valley is shown in all its glory, and will surely captivate those who want to know more. The town itself is action-filled with appealing characters and scenarios sure to inspire imagined tales of its many happenings. Look to outlying regions and there is even more to see and discuss. It's a great introduction!
Turning to the open scene, readers will be well aware of many of the town's inhabitants and much action. It is abuzz with early morning goings-on, including the changing of the firefighting team at the fire department. The retreating shift is tired after a long day and night. Those arriving are keen to get to the work of a new day.
Each member of the team prepares for the day by changing into their uniforms, setting up essential gear, and having a listen to Chief Piggie's checklist of the work to be done. There is a lot of it! A clanging bell, and unknown trouble calls the entire crew into action. Experts at getting ready are soon on their way to do what needs to be done.
Following spreads provide cross-sections of the pumper engine, the ladder engine, and the brush-breaker truck. A bird's-eye view of the town shows the route the trucks take to get to the scene of concern. The troublesome Tabby Twins have got themselves in a pickle by climbing to a precariously high position at the Big Scoop Ice Cream Shop. Luckily, the firefighters are good at the work they do; soon the twins are safe and sound on the ground.
Before they can leave, a fire erupts in the ice cream shop and the crew must use their equipment and valuable skills to put that fire out before much damage is done. With that in hand, they move on to a small fire caused by a floating ember in the nearby field. Their training serves them well, and soon their third problem is under control.
Their work is not nearly done. They head back to the fire hall, and do all that needs to be done in order to be fully ready for the next alarm. Cleaning themselves up, and taking time to rest and relax is what's next for all. That is, until ...
"BRAANNGG!
BRAANNGG!
BRAANNGG!"
Duty calls once more!
There is no lack of energy in the spreads created for young readers. The artwork is packed with details that will inspire and excite all who share this book. Stories will be told, memories shared, and a great deal learned about the workings of a firehouse. Bravo to those who put their lives on the line to protect and serve their communities. Back matter extends the learning in all the best ways.
I look forward to the next Breezy Valley story ... this one's planned to honor Hospital Heroes! Goodness knows they well deserve attention for the wonderful work they do every day.
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