The Birthday Car

by Margaret Hillert

A little boy receives a red toy car for his birthday and enjoys pedaling it many places with other friends who follow him riding other cars, bicycles, wagons, and scooters.

Genres: Childrens, Fiction

Paperback

First published January 1, 1950

About the author

Margaret Hillert has written over 80 books for children who are just learning to read. Her books have been translated into many languages and have helped children throughout the world learn to read. She first started writing poetry as a child and has continued to write for children and adults throughout her life. As a first grade teacher, Margaret realized that the books available for students just learning to read were beyond their comprehension. She then began to write her easy readers and poetry for children. Her first collection of poetry Farther Than Far was published in 1969. Her many awards include the Chicago Children's Reading Round Table Annual Award for outstanding contributions to the field of children's literature. Other honors include the David W. Longe Prize and the Michigan Bookwoman of the Year Award. A teacher for 34 years, she is now retired and lives in Michigan where she continues to write stories and poetry.

Reviews

[Luisa Knight · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a very simple story. Very. And words are repeated a lot. An awful lot. But ... I loved this book as a kid! I think it was the illustrations that made me love it, and also that I thought having a little red car sounded so incredibly fun. Your child probably will too.

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[Rose Rosetree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wheels! The four year old is getting wheels! This shiny red car comes courtesy of Father. How exciting is that?

I find the child's first reaction to his "new car" to be lol hilarious:

I can go.
I can go away.
Away, away, away.

Evidently escapism begins young... for today's early readers.

As for the triumphant conclusion of this tale, it takes the cake. (Also, quite possibly, it might include cake. But no spoiler from me, no no!)

FIVE STARS of appreciation for the poetic economy of words, conveying oh so much.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Very repetitive with colorful pictures. A great early reader.

[Jacqueline]

Beginning reader

[Cindy]

Great book for beginning readers!! You can read this to students on their birthday! Has a great family connection!

[Samantha · Rating 1 out of 5]

Great illustrations, but very repetitive.