The Little Engine that Could – Watty Piper

Scholastic Australia

December 2024

ISBN: 9781761642449

ISBN-10: 1761642448

RRP: $19.99

As I read this [I’ve lost count of how many times I have done so over the years] ready to write this review, it is Xmas Eve. And, as happens, all my loved ones who are missing are strongly in my mind. My dear Mum, who would have been 98 now, even moreso, as this was one of several books she remembered from her childhood[(one day I might write a post about all those she recalled].

You know, I am sent literally 100s of books a year and many of those will be long-lasting favourites in years to come, but there are just as many that will sink without a trace, and be fodder for op shops in less than time than it took for them to be published. For a relatively simple picture book (before such things were a ‘genre’ really) to remain firmly high in the popularity stakes, after multiple editions, after 95 years is testament to the love held for this little book. Not to mention the famous catch-cry which has become entrenched into the common parlance.

And just how timely is it, that this darling book which is all about the determined smallest proving that kindness exists everywhere, should celebrate its milestone in these fraught and anxious times, when hatred rears all across the world.

And, it’s more than just that (which is enough in itself), it’s about all those values we strive to instil in our kiddos: self-belief, willingness to try and risk something new and challenging ourselves outside our norms. These are morals worth sharing time and time again IMO.

How I wish my Mummy could see that one of her favourite books as a tiny tot is still loved by so many! I trust you will enjoy this special anniversary edition as much as I have and relish sharing it with your Smalls (or even Not-So-Smalls). I’m giving it a 5 🚂🚂🚂🚂🚂 rating. Toot toot!!