My New Red Car

At first glance, this picture book appears to be similar to the ubiquitous “That’s not my …... (dog, horse, unicorn, etc.)” series. It follows a similar format with the main character looking for their car and on each page a different car is identified and rejected for a variety of reasons. However, it stands out from the more generic formula because it is very funny and will appeal to children and adults on different levels.

The humour extends from the wittiness of the car caught in power lines being rejected because “My car isn’t electric” to the toilet humour beloved of three and four year-olds when the poo-covered car is ejected from the bottom of the Greedy Grabber.

The text, written as a simple question and answer dialogue is matched by the deceptively uncomplicated illustrations.On subsequent readings, children begin to notice more and more details, so there are opportunities to engage children in further discussion and expand their language development.

Title: My New Red Car

Author and Illustrator: David Minty

Publisher: mintybooks.co.nz

ISBN: 978-0-473-47158-3

RRP: $29.99

Format: Paperback

Date of Publication: 2019

Age Range: Picturebook

Reviewer: Carola Crawford, English teacher, Karanga Mai Young Parents’ College

How are you recommending this book: Highly recommended

Opening sentence: “ Can I show you my new car?”

You can buy this book here