Spot's fire engine by Eric Hill

Puffin, 2019. ISBN: 9780241382486.
(Age: 1-4) Recommended. Board book. Themes: Fire engines. Subtitled Sound book with flashing light Spot's fire engine is described as a book and toy in one by the publisher. It is a very robust book featuring the ever popular Spot, this time visiting a fire station with his grandfather who is a firefighter. The illustrations which are done in very bright colours, show the fire station, and what is inside. Spot has a lot of fun going down the fire pole and giving the engine a wash, as well as pretending to drive the fire engine. There are lots of funny little details that the reader will enjoy as Spot splashes his Grandpa when washing the engine and makes the fire siren blare. Other details about fire stations like the equipment and uniforms also create interest for the young reader. All are vividly coloured and the expressions on the dogs' faces are delightful.
There is a battery operated siren and flashing light which will be sure to entertain the young child. It comes with a warning, 'hazardous if swallowed', so this is a book that should be handled with an adult present. The battery can be turned on and off at the back of book, if the noise becomes an issue for the adult reading the book!
A hard-wearing, robust board book, its familiar characters and vibrant illustrations are sure to delight the very young.
Pat Pledger