Tractor Mac New Friend

February 15, 2015
"Plows, harrows, and cultivators!" Positive, practical life lessons abound as popular character Tractor Mac returns in this light, new selection for vehicle-loving listeners and readers. This time, the animals are curious when a number of tools arrive at the farm. They are too small for Mac, so whom could they be for? New tractor Daisy, of course, who is much stronger than her diminutive size would suggest. Colorful illustrations with plenty of action and detail depict the farm and its inhabitants as Daisy, who is optimistic but overwhelmed by all the work to be done, realizes she may not be able to do it all on her own. First the farm's animals and vehicles offer aid, and then Daisy learns how to work independently and break a big job into manageable parts by setting targets. The story is a bit unfocused and the text a bit pedestrian, and it is irritating that Steers concocts a scenario in which the female character needs advice from the paternalistic Mac. Still, the fact that there is a girl tractor at all is mildly praiseworthy, and the cheerful pace, chirpy dialogue and satisfying ending are sure to please fans of the series. A pleasant-enough trip to the farm. (Picture book. 2-7)

March 1, 2015

PreS-Gr 2-Although America has been transformed into a nation of city and suburban dwellers, children are still captivated by the idea of the small family farm. In Steers's popular series, readers can journey to a bucolic family farm, complete with a trusty tractor and talkative animal friends, and experience life without electronics, surrounded by bountiful nature. In New Friend, a small, new tractor named Daisy has arrived at the farm. She has been brought in by Farmer Bill to clear and plant the unused fields on Stony Meadow Farm-an area declared by Tractor Mac and his animal friends to be too small, too creepy, and too overgrown to work. As goat Walter succinctly tells Daisy, "Those weeds and vines will eat a small tractor like you!" Luckily for Daisy, she receives help clearing the field as well as advice from Tractor Mac: "Set small goals to reach your big goal." Like all of the "Tractor Mac" books, the story focuses on the importance of teamwork and friendship, and the message is clearly presented. The detailed illustrations reflect the artist's love of country life and antique machinery. VERDICT A cheerful addition to transportation collections.-Sally James, South Hillsborough Elementary School, Hillsborough, CA

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