  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 03/01/2020 PreS-Gr 2—Watty Piper's classic about the determined little train that accomplishes what bigger, stronger engines could or would not has yet another new look for a new generation. This 90th-anniversary volume is larger and bolder than the classic edition. The cartoony dolls and toy animals should appeal to youngsters used to streaming animated shows and games. Two dolls, a teddy bear, two giraffes, a purple elephant, and a green-haired clown drive the story; there is also a small red and white propeller plane on every spread for readers to spot. Santat captures the train's motion with wind-blown locks or puffs of smoke, and the expressions on the snooty passenger train, the tired Rusty Old Engine, and the eager Little Blue speak volumes. The text is virtually the same as in the original, though broken up in a more seamless manner. There is a foreword by singer Dolly Parton, who chose this beloved title as the first book gifted by her Imagination Library, a program that gives books to children. An afterword by Santat celebrates the message of believing in oneself. VERDICT Due to the size, bold art, and updated language, this new version of an old favorite is perfect for read-alouds.—Barbara Auerbach, Cairo Public Library, NY - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Booklist - 03/01/2020 For 90 years, children have enjoyed this classic story of the train with a broken-down engine; the dolls, toys, and clown flagging down passing trains to ask for help; and the three rejections before the Little Blue Engine tries to pull the train over the mountain, chanting “I think I can. I think I can,” and succeeds (“I thought I could. I thought I could”). This anniversary edition opens with an introduction by Dolly Parton and ends with an illustrator’s note by Santat. Both recall hearing the story as children and finding its signature refrain a source of inspiration, comfort, or encouragement. This edition uses the original text, and Santat's new illustrations are big, bold, and dynamic, with childlike touches that make them endearing as well. Each engine has an expressive face, as do the dolls, the animals, and the little clown. A red toy airplane, flying above or alongside the trains, becomes an engaging seek-and-find element for young children. A lively anniversary edition that’s well worth adding to picture-book collections. - Copyright 2020 Booklist. Loading...
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