Review: McToad Mows Tiny Island

McToad Mows Tiny Island is “a transportation tale” filled with different modes of transport. It’s a bit of a wacky story whose main character is McToad, of McToad Lawn Care, an amphibian who mows grass. Most days of the week he mows the grass on Big Island, but for one day of the week it’s Tiny Island’s turn.

How McToad gets his red, ride-on lawn mower to Tiny Island is what drives the story, because it’s not a simple trip from Big Island to Tiny Island. McToad has to use a truck, train, forklift, aeroplane, baggage buggy, helicopter, dock, boat, and crane to get to there. Phew! What an effort!

McToad is not on Tiny Island for long, though. Once he mows the grass and has a tea break, he’s on his way back to Big Island, using the same method, but in reverse. It’s not at all boring and makes Thursdays lots of fun for McToad.

Author Tom Angleberger, of Art2-D2's Guide to Folding and Doodling fame, has created this funny story, and it’s been illustrated by John Hendrix in a colourful, cartoon-ish style that really appeals.

A fun and thoroughly enjoyable story, with a crazy new character.

Title: McToad Mows Tiny Island
Author: Tom Angleberger
Illustrator: John Hendrix
Publisher: Abrams, $19.99 RRP
Publication Date: July 2015
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781419716508
For ages: 4-8 years
Type: Picture Book