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Writer's pictureNZ Booklovers

The Little Yellow Digger and the Helicopter by Peter Gilderdale


When floodwaters threaten a town, the Little Yellow Digger is called to the rescue – but how can it get there? “I know!” exclaimed the engineer. “We’ve got the perfect thing. Our helicopter! It can fly a digger in a sling.” 


Floodwaters are rising and a stranded town’s stop banks are about to burst. The panicked residents are crying out for the biggest digger available. But the helicopter is unable to lift the big diggers, so once again the Little Yellow Digger is called upon to save the day.


This is author Peter Gilderdale's fifth Little Yellow Digger book, carrying on the work of his late mother Betty. He knows the formula well - an engaging story, lots of machinery, a problem and a solution. Gilderdale doesn't clutter the story, it's succinctly told in simple stanzas. 


Illustrator Fifi Colston is back on board with the artwork, with a faithful homage to the originals. She creates detailed illustrations with plenty of emotion and action. There's little details that are particular, yet untethered, allowing readers to recognise and place themselves within the setting.


The Little Yellow Digger books are classics in New Zealand, with a timeless feel, plenty of action, simple texts and artwork. The Little Yellow Digger and the Helicopter is another that will stand the test of time and be loved by generations.

 

Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell

Scholastic

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