Diggers, Dozers, and Dumpers (Ole Könnecke, Gecko)

Picture books about machinery are always a hit, but they don’t always deliver an engaging narrative – this one does, seamlessly blending fiction with nonfiction. Diggers, Dozers, and Dumpers, written and illustrated by Ole Könnecke and translated from German by Melody Shaw, introduces young readers to heavy vehicles through a cast of whimsical animal characters: Emily Sheep uses a wheel loader to transport a heavy rock for her sculpture; Cordula Cow operates a telescopic crane to move her piano into the pasture for a free concert; and Amanda Crocodile smooths out a bumpy road with a bulldozer so she can enjoy a bike ride. Each spread presents a short, playful story about an animal solving a problem or making life easier with a construction vehicle. A labelled tab on the left-hand page provides a quick reference for the machine, while an italicised section offers a simple explanation of how it works. The book’s humour shines through in imaginative scenarios, like rhinos mixing pancake batter in a cement mixer with 32,304 eggs, and a mouse family transporting their tiny home – mansion-sized to them – on a flatbed truck. Könnecke’s illustrations have a nostalgic charm, with a style reminiscent of Richard Scarry’s Busytown, bringing the straightforward premise to life with warmth and personality. Brimming with charm, humour and delightful machine-filled adventures, this book is a perfect blend of fun and facts for young readers aged 4+.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Jess Lomas is Reviews editor for Books+Publishing. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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