Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!

Reader’s Annotation: One convincing pigeon pulls every trick in the book to convince young readers that he can operate public transportation! Even kids can recognize such a silly request. Young readers will really recognize the pigeon's temper tantrum, as this age level is master of such displays of pure emotion.



Author: Mo Willems
Illustrator: Mo Willems
Age: 2 - 6 years
genre/subject: Children's picture book; Children's fiction
Plot Summary: A bus driver leaves his bus under the care of young readers, leaving one instruction: Don't let the pigeon drive the bus! Enter spirited pigeon, who spends the remainder of the story trying desperately to convince the audience to allow him to drive the bus.
Evaluation: A clever take on what it is like to be young and told no. Willems crafts this story to connect with children who may have big dreams, but have to wait until they are old enough to fulfill those dreams. One page displays the pigeon having a full-fledged meltdown, which is also a wonderful way to connect with children, many of whom have perfected the art of the temper tantrum.
Significance & Bibliographic Usefulness: Art is basic, Willems has been said to design his illustrations so that children can copy. Also, the pigeon's statements are all in word bubbles. The text is quite large and great for children to follow-along with the reader. Since it is geared for a younger audience, the way the text is displayed may have great early literacy value.
Readalikes: How Do Dinosaurs...? Series. Authors take the same approach to teach manners when young dinosaurs or pigeons do not want to obey.
Awards/Lists: 

• Caldecott Honor (2004)
• Kentucky Bluegrass Award for K-2 (2005)
• Charlotte Zolotow Award Nominee for Highly Commended Title (2004)
• Vermont's Picture Book Awards: Red Clover (2005)
• An ALA Notable Children's Book for Younger Readers (2004)
• South Carolina Book Award for Picture Book Award (2006)
• Flicker Tale Children's Book Award (2005)
• Golden Archer Award for Primary (2005)
• Buckaroo Book Award (2004)
• Indies Choice Book Award for Picture Book Hall of Fame (2009)

Links:
Library School Journal
Hook: A quirky pigeon begs readers to drive a bus, a reasonable request from feathered friend!
Ideas, Uses: Engage in a discussion about things children can look forward to doing when they grow up: drive a car, fly a plane, go sailing.
ISBN: 978-0786819881
Page Count: 40
Format: Paperback
Publisher:Hyperion Press
Pub Date: April 1, 2003