The diggers are coming! by Susan Steggall

Ill. by Susan Steggall. Frances Lincoln Children's Books, 2013. Hardcover. ISBN 9781 84780 2880.
(Age: 2-5) Recommended. This is a glorious celebration of the roar of big construction machines and the work they do. There is much on every page to capture the attention of any young child, with colourful illustrations, captured in torn-paper collage. From the wreckers which whack, wallop and wham, to the people who come with boxes, bundles and bags, this truly is a 'ground up' story, capturing the process of turning old abandoned buildings into a thriving new community.
It's a story which is certain to appeal to any 'machine' fan, as well as being a source of explanation for a child who is watching the transformation of a space in their community, or a child moving to a newly constructed home. One of the aspects of the story which appeals is that the machines are in their 'natural' state - these are not amorphisised with eyes and smiling mouths on a nonsensical mission to deliver presents or be helpful - these are machines designed to smash things, flatten them and haul them away.
The author is a teacher, librarian and mother, and this shows in both big and small ways, with quality in both language and illustration. This would make a valuable addition to any school or home library.
Freya Lucas