PreS-Gr 1—D is for "dump truck" and T is for "tape measure" in this A—Z journey to build a backyard tree house. Each letter of the alphabet describes a different part of the construction process with a rhyming verse and full-color illustrations. This is not your typical alphabet picture book, as Q is for "quad-axle truck," and the text is detailed and includes vocabulary that may be unfamiliar to young children. A glossary of potentially unfamiliar terms is appended. This book will appeal to children who have an interest in learning factual information about the construction process. A few of the selections are less than inspiring. For example, A is for "alarm": "Alarm goes off. Hip-hip-hooray!/The wait is over. Today's the day." And G is for "grab": " 'Grab a hard hat,' the foreman says./'We need protection for our heads.' " VERDICT Recommended for additional purchase, this book is suitable for young vehicle and construction enthusiasts.
—Kristen Todd-Wurm, Middle Country Public Library, NY

Construction equipment has long been a favorite of little readers and D is for Dump Truck takes children on an A to Z exploration of a fun backyard construction site. With bouncy poems for each letter and a glossary in the back, this book brings the thrill of construction up close and personal.

Having been involved in education for more than 30 years, Dr. Michael Shoulders travels extensively, visiting schools and speaking at conferences across the country. In addition to authoring the companion title, Say Daddy!, he has written several books for Sleeping Bear Press, including G is for Gladiator: An Ancient Rome Alphabet. Mike lives in Clarksville, Tennessee.

D is for Dump Truck is the fifteenth book from author Michael Shoulders and Sleeping Bear Press. Previous books include Crossing the Deadline, Say Daddy!, M is for Money, and T is for Titanic. Having been involved in education for more than 30 years, Michael now writes and travels extensively, visiting schools and speaking at conferences across the country. He visits nearly one hundred schools each year, spreading his message that "Reading IS Magic." Michael lives is Clarksville, Tennessee with his wife, Debbie. They are the proud parents of two sons, one daughter, one very large standard poodle, and two very spoiled cats―and the happy grandparents to one grandson and two granddaughters.