The Motorcycle Race

November 1, 2016

K-Gr 2-Bright, bold photographs support the simple text of these high-interest easy readers. Each book focuses on a different type of race, providing a play-by-play from start to finish line. While not particularly informative, the writing is engaging. Colorful backgrounds edged with tire tracks allow readers to focus on the oversize text. While the bulk of the series focuses on well-known topics, Hot Air Balloon Race and Tractor Race showcase two less covered racing sports and offer something new and exciting. For little ones who love truck and car books, this series could easily bridge the gap between picture books and nonfiction.

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2017
Aimed at emerging readers, these bare-bones introductions to vehicle races are comprised of minimal large-print text and close-up color action photos. While the photos are eye-catching, the hokey texts are more narrative than informative ("John spins out. Oh no! / It is a close finish. Carly wins!"). Each book ends with an oversimplified photo diagram of the featured vehicle. There are four other fall 2016 books in this series.

(Copyright 2017 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)