Mister Norton's New Truck

“One Monday morning, Horace Norton found…that a bear had been on his bicycle.” The bear left a nice note, but both wheels are damaged (and honey drips from the bike’s basket). Mr. Norton has to get to work, so, never one to make a fuss, he does his best, though it’s slow going. On Tuesday, he tries the bus. It’s packed with critters, and he ends up disembarking and walking through the rain, with some animals from the bus clinging to his arms and legs. Taking a scooter (with the aforementioned animals hitching a ride) on Wednesday, he is late for work, “because the scooter was small, the bus was too busy, and the bear had been on his bicycle.” He tries other options, but nothing works…until he hits upon a new idea while soaking in the bath on Saturday: his grandfather’s old truck. Unfortunately, the vehicle’s in poor shape, but some friends—including the bear—sneak into the barn to do Mr. Norton a good turn. And in the morning, a “new” truck awaits. Lewis Jones and Egbert team up for another silly cumulative tale, following Mister Norton’s New Hat (2025). The use of repetition is deft, and youngsters will eagerly chime in. Egbert’s cartoon illustrations will elicit giggles; expressive Mr. Norton’s grimaces and winces as his journey so often goes wrong are delightful—as is his eventual triumph. A sweet story of persistence and friendship. (Picture book. 4-6) –Kirkus Reviews

On Monday, Horace Norton needs to get to his job, but a bear has borrowed his bicycle, and it’s in bad shape. Even on an unsteady bike, dependable Mr. Norton bounces his way to work. On Tuesday, he tries to take the bus, but it’s full, so he walks. Each day of the week, Mr. Norton uses a different mode of transportation to get from his farm to his job, often accompanied by a variety of animals. On Saturday, he remembers that his grandfather’s truck is stored in the barn. The truck isn’t in any better condition than the bicycle, and sadly, Horace finds he’s not mechanically inclined; the old truck is still in pieces when he goes to bed. Overnight, his thoughtful animal friends fashion a working, though unconventional, vehicle to aid their friend. Delightful illustrations are filled with color, movement, and plenty of creatures. The refrain reflecting the root of Mr. Norton’s troubles, “the bear had been on his bicycle,” adds humor to the text as the kind man attempts to arrive at work on time.–Booklist