Maisy's Fire Engine

Reach for this book when your toddler is in a 'hero' phase or shows a budding fascination with sirens, trucks, and community helpers. It is an ideal choice for children who may be feeling a bit small or powerless, as it places a familiar, friendly character in a position of capability and leadership. Through the bold and iconic illustrations of Lucy Cousins, the story models how to help a friend in need with confidence and teamwork. The story follows Maisy and her friend Cyril as they operate a fire engine, accidentally splash a cat, and then successfully rescue it from a roof. The emotional themes focus on the pride of accomplishment and the importance of looking out for others. It is perfectly calibrated for the 1-3 age range with its sturdy board book format and repetitive, onomatopoeic sounds like 'Nee-Nah,' which encourage active participation and language development.