cover image Charlie Rides: Planes, Trains, Bikes, and More!

Charlie Rides: Planes, Trains, Bikes, and More!

Bob Bianchini. Abrams Appleseed, $8.95 (20p) ISBN 978-1-4197-2292-9

“This is Charlie and he loves to ride.../ bikes with Dad when it’s sunny outside.” That’s how debut author-illustrator Bianchini introduces his young, vehicle-loving protagonist. In the pages that follow, readers see him competing in a soapbox derby, sledding “down Gooseberry Hill,” and taking to the skies in an airplane and hot-air balloon—always accompanied by his equally eager father. Bianchini’s cartooning telegraphs the strong bond between father and son, as well as their evident joy in getting out and seeing the world, by any means available. It’d make a fine Father’s Day gift but has broader appeal, too. Ages 3–5. Agent: Holly McGhee, Pippin Properties. (Apr.)