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Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus
Jay-Jay the bus is rescued from the dirty scrap yard, where he was sadly gathering dust and cobwebs. Feeling nervous yet excited, he is taken to an airport where he is magically transformed into a 'Playbus' full of toys, games and adventure. A fictional tale based on a real life bus 'Supersonic', which flew in the imaginations of the many young children who visited it.
- GenresChildrens
38 pages, Paperback
First published October 10, 2014
3 people are currently reading
1 person want to read
About the author
Sue Wickstead
17 books27 followersSue Wickstead lives in the UK and writes children’s picture story books.
Her stories relate to both her experiences as a teacher as well as her play-work adventures with a Playbus.
The Playbus was a real double-decker bus full of toys, arts and crafts, as well as a lot of fun to play on. She wrote a photographic social history book about the project which led to her story telling and her writing. All of Sue’s books do have a bus included in them somewhere.
When not writing Sue builds models with Lego, she also loves spending quality time with her young grandson and enjoys creating models to share with him on his visits.
Her grandson features in her book ‘Barty Barton; the bear that was loved too much’ which was published in 2020.
Two of Sue’s most recent books were written about her younger brother David and his imaginative play adventures. Perhaps Nanny and Alexander might have a few adventures of their own one day too.
Many of Sue’s books have been entered and shortlisted in ‘The Wishing Shelf Book Awards’, the book ‘A Spooky Tale’ was a silver medal winner in 2019. The story was written with her class in school.
For more information about the author as well as play adventures with her grandson and her Lego why not visit Sue’s website:
www.suewickstead.co.uk
Her stories relate to both her experiences as a teacher as well as her play-work adventures with a Playbus.
The Playbus was a real double-decker bus full of toys, arts and crafts, as well as a lot of fun to play on. She wrote a photographic social history book about the project which led to her story telling and her writing. All of Sue’s books do have a bus included in them somewhere.
When not writing Sue builds models with Lego, she also loves spending quality time with her young grandson and enjoys creating models to share with him on his visits.
Her grandson features in her book ‘Barty Barton; the bear that was loved too much’ which was published in 2020.
Two of Sue’s most recent books were written about her younger brother David and his imaginative play adventures. Perhaps Nanny and Alexander might have a few adventures of their own one day too.
Many of Sue’s books have been entered and shortlisted in ‘The Wishing Shelf Book Awards’, the book ‘A Spooky Tale’ was a silver medal winner in 2019. The story was written with her class in school.
For more information about the author as well as play adventures with her grandson and her Lego why not visit Sue’s website:
www.suewickstead.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 9, 2019
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I have read a couple of books by this author now I have to say that she creates some fabulous books to read with some excellent characters – this book is great and I can easily see Jay-Jay being a firm favourite with younger children especially as I really enjoyed it as an adult!
The story is easy to follow and it has a nice natural flow to it. I loved seeing what happened to Jay-Jay and the new lease of life he is given. It is a nice, genuine feel good story!
4 stars from me for this one, it is a well written story with some great characters – highly recommended!!
I have read a couple of books by this author now I have to say that she creates some fabulous books to read with some excellent characters – this book is great and I can easily see Jay-Jay being a firm favourite with younger children especially as I really enjoyed it as an adult!
The story is easy to follow and it has a nice natural flow to it. I loved seeing what happened to Jay-Jay and the new lease of life he is given. It is a nice, genuine feel good story!
4 stars from me for this one, it is a well written story with some great characters – highly recommended!!
May 12, 2019
This is a delightful, colourful, children’s story based on something that really happened. It is beautifully illustrated throughout and tells the story from the point of view of Jay-Jay, the bus transformed from dropping to pieces in a scrapyard to being a source of fun and excitement in a new role as a ‘Playbus’. The story is engaging and the illustrations add to its appeal. This is a relatively quick but engaging read that will appeal to children – younger ones will enjoy having it read to them and more competent readers will be able to read it independently. It is a story for sharing, one to laugh and enjoy with others – I certainly enjoyed sharing it!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
April 20, 2019
All my reviews can be found at: http://jessicasreadingroom.com
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I received a copy for being on the blog blitz on 4/20/19
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Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus is a colorful children’s picture book that is surprisingly based on fact. Jay-Jay is JJK261 and he has been forgotten in the scrap yard until one day some kids briefly play on him. Later on, he gets new lease on life as someone buys ALL of him and not just pieces of him! His future is much brighter now!
This is a short feel good children’s book that informs you of the ‘real’ JJK261 and his adventures. The story flows well and and has colorful pictures that enhance the story. It is not long and I can see small children enjoying this book and will be ready for more of Jay-Jay and his many adventures. This is a great beginning to Wickstead’s Jay-Jay books.
On a personal note: My grandmother was a bus driver and the part of the book with the kids playing on Jay-Jay brought back fond memories of my sister and myself playing on her school bus and even riding on the bus as my grandma picked up kids for school. Thanks for bringing up those memories Sue!
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I received a copy for being on the blog blitz on 4/20/19
~~~~
Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus is a colorful children’s picture book that is surprisingly based on fact. Jay-Jay is JJK261 and he has been forgotten in the scrap yard until one day some kids briefly play on him. Later on, he gets new lease on life as someone buys ALL of him and not just pieces of him! His future is much brighter now!
This is a short feel good children’s book that informs you of the ‘real’ JJK261 and his adventures. The story flows well and and has colorful pictures that enhance the story. It is not long and I can see small children enjoying this book and will be ready for more of Jay-Jay and his many adventures. This is a great beginning to Wickstead’s Jay-Jay books.
On a personal note: My grandmother was a bus driver and the part of the book with the kids playing on Jay-Jay brought back fond memories of my sister and myself playing on her school bus and even riding on the bus as my grandma picked up kids for school. Thanks for bringing up those memories Sue!
April 18, 2019
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Jay-Jay, The Supersonic Bus
Author: Sue Wickstead
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 19
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 9/10
Of the 19 readers:
18 would read another book by this author.
17 thought the cover was good or excellent.
13 felt it was easy to follow.
18 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
14 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
18 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘Such a sweet story. The children in my class love it. Now they want a bus full of books to visit the school.’ Teacher, aged 34
‘Lovely, fun illustrations. The text is well-written although a few of words are difficult for even my 8 years to understand. Also, the text is in large blocks. I would recommend splitting it a little, and perhaps trying to shorten it. The story is interesting, the bus is a wonderful character. The other characters were a bit grey.’ Primary teacher, aged 52
‘A well-plotted picture book with a strong, central message. Everybody has a talent, even an old bus.’ Parent of twins, aged 7
‘I liked the bus the most. I was sad when he was sad at the beginning. I was happy when he got his new job.’ Girl, aged 8
‘This made me want to visit a play bus too.’ Boy, aged 7
‘When recycling is so important, a book like this is fab. We used it in the classroom to discuss how even an old bus could be used for a different purpose.’ Teacher, aged 29
To Sum It Up:
‘A sweet story with a strong message for children. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Jay-Jay, The Supersonic Bus
Author: Sue Wickstead
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 19
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 9/10
Of the 19 readers:
18 would read another book by this author.
17 thought the cover was good or excellent.
13 felt it was easy to follow.
18 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
14 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
18 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘Such a sweet story. The children in my class love it. Now they want a bus full of books to visit the school.’ Teacher, aged 34
‘Lovely, fun illustrations. The text is well-written although a few of words are difficult for even my 8 years to understand. Also, the text is in large blocks. I would recommend splitting it a little, and perhaps trying to shorten it. The story is interesting, the bus is a wonderful character. The other characters were a bit grey.’ Primary teacher, aged 52
‘A well-plotted picture book with a strong, central message. Everybody has a talent, even an old bus.’ Parent of twins, aged 7
‘I liked the bus the most. I was sad when he was sad at the beginning. I was happy when he got his new job.’ Girl, aged 8
‘This made me want to visit a play bus too.’ Boy, aged 7
‘When recycling is so important, a book like this is fab. We used it in the classroom to discuss how even an old bus could be used for a different purpose.’ Teacher, aged 29
To Sum It Up:
‘A sweet story with a strong message for children. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
April 15, 2019
My friends five year old daughter absolutely loved this book. When it arrived I read it through with her. We talked about the pictures as we went along. A few days later when she was visiting again she asked my seventeen year old son to read it with her. Again the story was read to her while she gave feedback on the pictures.
Since then my friends daughter has picked the book up every time she has been over. She has been doing well spelling out the words for herself. In fact I had a real proud moment when I heard her trying to read and explain the story to a two year old ( she actually did very well).
This was and still is a great read. I doubt it will stay long on my bookcase as it seems to be read quite a bit and enjoyed. Good storyline that catches children’s attentions. The illustrations are very good. Highly recommend this read for your little ones.
Since then my friends daughter has picked the book up every time she has been over. She has been doing well spelling out the words for herself. In fact I had a real proud moment when I heard her trying to read and explain the story to a two year old ( she actually did very well).
This was and still is a great read. I doubt it will stay long on my bookcase as it seems to be read quite a bit and enjoyed. Good storyline that catches children’s attentions. The illustrations are very good. Highly recommend this read for your little ones.
February 14, 2018
I was delighted to read this book after connecting with the author. My nickname for many years and I still get called it was JJ, it was my initials for my maiden name. We laughed at the connection.
I read Jay-Jay with my 7 year old daughter who was interested in the storyline, when we got to the end she was fascinated with the real Jay-Jay Supersonic. It made the story more valuable and most likely more memorable for her. Now she is excited to read the next one.
My daughter found it easy to read which is what I expected although there were some trickle bigger words which I am delighted Sue has kept. I do think it is important that children have a large vocabulary because it will equip them even more for their future.
The storyline, without giving too much away was a lovely tale. I can understand why Sue has written this book and I can see her passionate throughout.
The illustrations are colourful and of a professional quality.
We cannot waif to read the next one now.
I read Jay-Jay with my 7 year old daughter who was interested in the storyline, when we got to the end she was fascinated with the real Jay-Jay Supersonic. It made the story more valuable and most likely more memorable for her. Now she is excited to read the next one.
My daughter found it easy to read which is what I expected although there were some trickle bigger words which I am delighted Sue has kept. I do think it is important that children have a large vocabulary because it will equip them even more for their future.
The storyline, without giving too much away was a lovely tale. I can understand why Sue has written this book and I can see her passionate throughout.
The illustrations are colourful and of a professional quality.
We cannot waif to read the next one now.
August 5, 2015
We received this book to give an honest review.
This was a really awesome kids book. K enjoyed watching the bus go from almost being recycled to becoming a bus that kids got to play in and enjoy themselves. He actually asked if we could find a bus like that to play in. I think this was a neat idea for a bus to be turned into for kids to be able to have some type of play time and the fact that it is based on a real bus that is amazing.
The pictures are colorful and go perfect with the story being told. Jay-Jay gets to see new things as he travels to get "fixed" up and then towards the end receive an award from someone very special.
I recommend this for the ages I would say 5 on up.
This was a really awesome kids book. K enjoyed watching the bus go from almost being recycled to becoming a bus that kids got to play in and enjoy themselves. He actually asked if we could find a bus like that to play in. I think this was a neat idea for a bus to be turned into for kids to be able to have some type of play time and the fact that it is based on a real bus that is amazing.
The pictures are colorful and go perfect with the story being told. Jay-Jay gets to see new things as he travels to get "fixed" up and then towards the end receive an award from someone very special.
I recommend this for the ages I would say 5 on up.
August 29, 2023
What an exciting yet empathetic story the author gifted the readers?!
When I first glanced at the cover of the book, a thought came to mind that this is some kind of children's story with the main character being a young girl or boy with some super heroic nature. To my surprise, I was impressed to realize the main character is an object, "Jay Jay the Supersonic Bus."
Apparently, Jay Jay is an abandoned school bus at a deserted garage. Jay Jay has been parked at this garage for a long time and he wondered whether anyone cared or noticed his presence. From the imaginary look, Jay Jay seemed not well kept and his outward appearance seemed worned-out.
But a new dawn arrived and a revelation was brought forth. This new awakening made "Jay Jay the Supersonic Bus" very happy. It felt like his worries and burdens were lifted off his back. What an amazing new beginning. He got a second chance to live. But you may wonder what really happened? Why was Jay Jay left abandoned at a garage? Who noticed his loneliness? And what events took place on the day of his new awakening? Grab a copy of the book to find out.
What I liked about the book is the idea of personifying automated objects, making the reader realize that objects may, in one way or another, have feelings and they deserve to be treated right with love and empathy. The story also reminds the reader that automated objects deserve rewards for all their hard work. Like, who would have thought about this notion except for the amazing author, Sue Wickstead.
Children can learn from the story how to treat and handle the innate objects we possess or have around us. Practicing empathy, kindness and showing love to the automated objects or other valuable items we possess is what the book professes.
I hope readers, especially children, will find the book valuable and apply the principles pointed out.
Happy Reading!!
When I first glanced at the cover of the book, a thought came to mind that this is some kind of children's story with the main character being a young girl or boy with some super heroic nature. To my surprise, I was impressed to realize the main character is an object, "Jay Jay the Supersonic Bus."
Apparently, Jay Jay is an abandoned school bus at a deserted garage. Jay Jay has been parked at this garage for a long time and he wondered whether anyone cared or noticed his presence. From the imaginary look, Jay Jay seemed not well kept and his outward appearance seemed worned-out.
But a new dawn arrived and a revelation was brought forth. This new awakening made "Jay Jay the Supersonic Bus" very happy. It felt like his worries and burdens were lifted off his back. What an amazing new beginning. He got a second chance to live. But you may wonder what really happened? Why was Jay Jay left abandoned at a garage? Who noticed his loneliness? And what events took place on the day of his new awakening? Grab a copy of the book to find out.
What I liked about the book is the idea of personifying automated objects, making the reader realize that objects may, in one way or another, have feelings and they deserve to be treated right with love and empathy. The story also reminds the reader that automated objects deserve rewards for all their hard work. Like, who would have thought about this notion except for the amazing author, Sue Wickstead.
Children can learn from the story how to treat and handle the innate objects we possess or have around us. Practicing empathy, kindness and showing love to the automated objects or other valuable items we possess is what the book professes.
I hope readers, especially children, will find the book valuable and apply the principles pointed out.
Happy Reading!!
April 22, 2019
*I received a free copy of this book with thanks to the author and Rachel Gilbey at Rachel’s Random Resources blog tours. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Minishine (6) and Babybows (3) were both entranced by Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus. This is a really lovely picture book – not too wordy, not too simple – with beautifully colourful illustrations. Both children really enjoyed picking out the details in the pictures and expanding on the story on the pages.
Me: What did you think of Jay-Jay?
Babybows: Amazing! I liked the bus and the children and the peoples. I liked the bus best. Jay-Jay!
Minishine: I liked the painting they did on him. It was really good ‘cos it was adventurous and I like adventurous stuff!
Mr Shine and I both felt a little bit traumatised at the idea of poor Jay-Jay being broken down for parts, but the children seemed to accept the potential dismemberment with equanimity and Minishine rather patronisingly observed that it ‘wasn’t sad at all, silly, because he only thought he might get breaked, but actually just nice things happen!’ So that was us told!
They both asked for this story again the following night – always a sign of a winner in our house!
Overall, a lovely story for children and parents, pitched at just the right length and language level to be accessible to both toddlers and young children alike. I recommend this with the slight caveat that you will find yourself googling local Playbuses enthusiastically shortly after reading it!
Jay-Jay was so excited he would be getting a new life and a new purpose. He would not have to be broken up for scrap, and to Jay-Jay this was the magic part!
– Sue Wickstead, Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Minishine (6) and Babybows (3) were both entranced by Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus. This is a really lovely picture book – not too wordy, not too simple – with beautifully colourful illustrations. Both children really enjoyed picking out the details in the pictures and expanding on the story on the pages.
Me: What did you think of Jay-Jay?
Babybows: Amazing! I liked the bus and the children and the peoples. I liked the bus best. Jay-Jay!
Minishine: I liked the painting they did on him. It was really good ‘cos it was adventurous and I like adventurous stuff!
Mr Shine and I both felt a little bit traumatised at the idea of poor Jay-Jay being broken down for parts, but the children seemed to accept the potential dismemberment with equanimity and Minishine rather patronisingly observed that it ‘wasn’t sad at all, silly, because he only thought he might get breaked, but actually just nice things happen!’ So that was us told!
They both asked for this story again the following night – always a sign of a winner in our house!
Overall, a lovely story for children and parents, pitched at just the right length and language level to be accessible to both toddlers and young children alike. I recommend this with the slight caveat that you will find yourself googling local Playbuses enthusiastically shortly after reading it!
Jay-Jay was so excited he would be getting a new life and a new purpose. He would not have to be broken up for scrap, and to Jay-Jay this was the magic part!
– Sue Wickstead, Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
April 30, 2019
I was really looking forward to reading this book with Amelia, my 5 year old daughter, as she loves buses so I thought this book would be perfect for her.
Neither of us were disappointed as the book itself has some lovely pictures in it and the story was entertaining enough to keep the pair of us entertained.
The story follows Jay-Jay the bus who is in a breakers yard at the beginning of the book feeling very sorry for himself, when some people come along and take him away.
They perform some magic on him and bring him back to his glory days and use him to help teach children learn and play at the same time.
Once he is nicely painted and ready for the children he is taken to an airport during the school holidays and all the children get to play on him and everyone is happy.
This is a very nice feel-good book, which Amelia has picked up numerous times for us to read together in the evenings.
Neither of us were disappointed as the book itself has some lovely pictures in it and the story was entertaining enough to keep the pair of us entertained.
The story follows Jay-Jay the bus who is in a breakers yard at the beginning of the book feeling very sorry for himself, when some people come along and take him away.
They perform some magic on him and bring him back to his glory days and use him to help teach children learn and play at the same time.
Once he is nicely painted and ready for the children he is taken to an airport during the school holidays and all the children get to play on him and everyone is happy.
This is a very nice feel-good book, which Amelia has picked up numerous times for us to read together in the evenings.
May 28, 2023
A beautiful illustrated book based on a true story of real-life bus"Supersonic". An amazing, colorful book for the children. Easy to read and understand.
I love the message, I got from this book. Sometimes, we underestimate our hidden talents until someone makes us realize our own worth . Just like jay- jay, he rescued from the scrapyard, transformed and started a new life. At the end he got a reward for his hardwork.
A lot of positivity and motivation in this 40 pages of book. Would definitely recommend this book.
I love the message, I got from this book. Sometimes, we underestimate our hidden talents until someone makes us realize our own worth . Just like jay- jay, he rescued from the scrapyard, transformed and started a new life. At the end he got a reward for his hardwork.
A lot of positivity and motivation in this 40 pages of book. Would definitely recommend this book.
April 23, 2019
This is a bright, colorful picture book which is sure to delight young listeners.
Jay-Jay is a bus, one that has gone his miles and finds himself in the junkyard. Depression sets in as he waits for his parts to be taken away one by one. Then, he's taken away and not just part of him—all of him. Soon, he gets a make-over and is bright and shiny. Best of all, he's got the new life as a play bus, where kids run around and play games in him.
This is such an encouraging and warm read. Young listeners will sympathize with Jay-Jay right away, not only because of his sad predicament, but he's simply a nice character. When he's taken away and re-done, it's hard not to cheer for him. There are many good feelings in this read as well as an important message.
The idea of recycling and making old things new comes through crystal clear. But it's not only about 'recycling' for environmental purposes. This tale shows that even fun and wonderful moments can be won through old things becoming new.
The writing flows nicely and never talks down to the listeners. The illustrations offer just the right amount of details and reflect the emotions wonderfully. It's a book for young listeners to flip through, and even appropriate for first readers to attack on their own.
I received a complimentary copy and enjoyed the mix and message very much.
Jay-Jay is a bus, one that has gone his miles and finds himself in the junkyard. Depression sets in as he waits for his parts to be taken away one by one. Then, he's taken away and not just part of him—all of him. Soon, he gets a make-over and is bright and shiny. Best of all, he's got the new life as a play bus, where kids run around and play games in him.
This is such an encouraging and warm read. Young listeners will sympathize with Jay-Jay right away, not only because of his sad predicament, but he's simply a nice character. When he's taken away and re-done, it's hard not to cheer for him. There are many good feelings in this read as well as an important message.
The idea of recycling and making old things new comes through crystal clear. But it's not only about 'recycling' for environmental purposes. This tale shows that even fun and wonderful moments can be won through old things becoming new.
The writing flows nicely and never talks down to the listeners. The illustrations offer just the right amount of details and reflect the emotions wonderfully. It's a book for young listeners to flip through, and even appropriate for first readers to attack on their own.
I received a complimentary copy and enjoyed the mix and message very much.
April 30, 2019
I really enjoyed this book, I liked how this book is clearly the beginning of a series. The book tells the tale of a bus that was found on a scrap yard. One day some people came along and he was pick and renovated into a play bus. This story really captures the imagination of my youngest Melanie. Though at one point Alex was a bit like "they are fitted alot of things on that bus!" This book is ideal for those little ones and a great starting point for hopefully more amazing books to come.
Alex: You liked the book because it tricked me into thinking that the bus was just going to be used at the airport for shuttling passengers :)
Melanie: I liked it all.
Alex: You liked the book because it tricked me into thinking that the bus was just going to be used at the airport for shuttling passengers :)
Melanie: I liked it all.
April 20, 2019
I got Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus to read with my five year old son, but actually I really enjoyed it too. It's a fabulous tale and what makes it even better is that it's based on a real life bus.
Jay-Jay gets a new lease of life when he is found in a scrap yard. His name comes from his registration number - JJK 261 - in case you were wondering. He's taken to an airport where he is made into a play bus. All his seats are removed and carpets and cupboards are put in so that children can come along and have fun. Jay-Jay is over the moon to be so useful.
This is a delightful story. It's a nice length, just short enough that it can be read in one go but long enough to offer a bit of depth to the story and to look at Jay-Jay's feelings, first of all about being left in the scrap yard and then being useful all over again.
The illustrations are gorgeous and complement the story perfectly. They're lovely and colourful and really helped to bring the story to life.
I'm pleased to say that this is not the last we have seen of Jay-Jay as we've since read the next instalment. I know my son would be happy to read lots more about the supersonic bus and his adventures, and so would I.
Jay-Jay gets a new lease of life when he is found in a scrap yard. His name comes from his registration number - JJK 261 - in case you were wondering. He's taken to an airport where he is made into a play bus. All his seats are removed and carpets and cupboards are put in so that children can come along and have fun. Jay-Jay is over the moon to be so useful.
This is a delightful story. It's a nice length, just short enough that it can be read in one go but long enough to offer a bit of depth to the story and to look at Jay-Jay's feelings, first of all about being left in the scrap yard and then being useful all over again.
The illustrations are gorgeous and complement the story perfectly. They're lovely and colourful and really helped to bring the story to life.
I'm pleased to say that this is not the last we have seen of Jay-Jay as we've since read the next instalment. I know my son would be happy to read lots more about the supersonic bus and his adventures, and so would I.
May 18, 2023
I've got two little ones, and I can't wait to read this book with them later (they're sleeping right now).
Let me tell you, this book is absolutely amazing! It's got these huge, colorful illustrations that will totally unleash the kids' imagination.
I really love how Jay-jay expresses his feelings in the story. It teaches children the importance of sharing their emotions instead of keeping them to themselves.
And you know what?
I'm totally impressed by how Jay-jay faces his fears. Even though he doesn't know what's going to happen and he's scared of getting scrapped because he's getting old, he keeps up his positive attitude and remains excited about his daily adventures. It's such a valuable lesson for our little ones—not to let fear stop them, but to tackle it head-on.
Oh, and here's an added bonus! The author mention that this story is based on "real bus project." And for people from different countries (like me), it makes us want to learn more about the real bus's history. Cool!
Let me tell you, this book is absolutely amazing! It's got these huge, colorful illustrations that will totally unleash the kids' imagination.
I really love how Jay-jay expresses his feelings in the story. It teaches children the importance of sharing their emotions instead of keeping them to themselves.
And you know what?
I'm totally impressed by how Jay-jay faces his fears. Even though he doesn't know what's going to happen and he's scared of getting scrapped because he's getting old, he keeps up his positive attitude and remains excited about his daily adventures. It's such a valuable lesson for our little ones—not to let fear stop them, but to tackle it head-on.
Oh, and here's an added bonus! The author mention that this story is based on "real bus project." And for people from different countries (like me), it makes us want to learn more about the real bus's history. Cool!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2023
This was a fun and engaging read. And I think it's the first book about Jay-Jay. The book tells the story of how he transformed from an ordinary bus into a Supersonic one. Jay-Jay is a bus that used to take the JJK 261 Route B. He was sent to the scrap yard as he was getting old. Sometimes there are children who would sometimes play with him. He feels unwanted but one day, someone bought him and made a makeover. He became a playbus for children and that is when his adventures began. The illustrations are amazing and eye catching. Definitely worth reading.
April 22, 2019
Written from Jay-Jay's point of view, this is a wonderful picture book which is a delight to read.
Based on a true story, we join Jay-Jay on his adventures, as he is rescued from the scrapyard and becomes a playbus.
The book is well-written and the colourful illustrations help to bring Jay-Jay to life and complement the tale perfectly.
Based on a true story, we join Jay-Jay on his adventures, as he is rescued from the scrapyard and becomes a playbus.
The book is well-written and the colourful illustrations help to bring Jay-Jay to life and complement the tale perfectly.
April 21, 2019
This is a great children’s book that focuses on an old bus that thinks it useful days are over. Luckily for Jay Jay he gets a make over so children can play on him.
I think children will love this, it is bright and cheerful and contains lots of brightly coloured pictures.
I think children will love this, it is bright and cheerful and contains lots of brightly coloured pictures.
June 5, 2023
I really like children's books.
This is good ✨
I get a good moral message, especially to have confidence and optimism.
This book helps me a lot even though I'm not a kid anymore.
I think it's good to read for adults too.
Unlike other children's books, I feel it's more like a comfort to an adult like me who feels lost as a human being.
For those of you who have lost your identity as a human being and are desperate, I think this is the right time to read this book.
The illustrations and storylines are excellent.
Hahaha, I think I'll take the bus.
This is good ✨
I get a good moral message, especially to have confidence and optimism.
This book helps me a lot even though I'm not a kid anymore.
I think it's good to read for adults too.
Unlike other children's books, I feel it's more like a comfort to an adult like me who feels lost as a human being.
For those of you who have lost your identity as a human being and are desperate, I think this is the right time to read this book.
The illustrations and storylines are excellent.
Hahaha, I think I'll take the bus.
April 16, 2023
Although I meant to pick this book to read with my daughter, it grabbed my attention from the very first page.
Illustrations were so cute, and the writing style was so nice, and has some very sweet rhymes.
It touched me in so many ways, especially when the author was explaining how life turned back into the bus after being parked for a very long time.
The time when the bus didn’t believe that people said it was magical, will definitely allow kids to believe in themselves and believe that they are magical too.
The way the bus felt loved and wanted again was so heartwarming.
At the end of the book, authors provides photos of the real story behind the book and the bus and that it was actually real. I was surprised that it was a true story!
This book will definitely be enjoyed by kids as well as grown ups too.
Thank you so much to the author.
Illustrations were so cute, and the writing style was so nice, and has some very sweet rhymes.
It touched me in so many ways, especially when the author was explaining how life turned back into the bus after being parked for a very long time.
The time when the bus didn’t believe that people said it was magical, will definitely allow kids to believe in themselves and believe that they are magical too.
The way the bus felt loved and wanted again was so heartwarming.
At the end of the book, authors provides photos of the real story behind the book and the bus and that it was actually real. I was surprised that it was a true story!
This book will definitely be enjoyed by kids as well as grown ups too.
Thank you so much to the author.
March 25, 2019
This book has lots of really beautifully drawn illustrations to captivate the imagination and engage young readers as they follow this story.
The story is about a decommissioned bus called Jay-Jay. We meet Jay-Jay in the breakers yard, where the bus has been sent, and is waiting to be broken up for scrap.
Before work can start on Jay-Jay, he is sold to a group of people who have a new purpose for him - as a children's playbus.
Jay-Jay is the narrator of this story, and we learn how he feels about the prospect of being broken up, the refurbishment, and his new status in the community.
This is a delightful, happy ending tale, with Jay-Jay being given a new lease of life. It is written in easily understandable language for young readers, whilst introducing a few more difficult words to extend their vocabulary.
This is the first of several books in this series, and one which I'd recommend for young readers, especially those with an interest in buses.
My thanks to author Sue Wickstead for a free copy of this book to review.
The story is about a decommissioned bus called Jay-Jay. We meet Jay-Jay in the breakers yard, where the bus has been sent, and is waiting to be broken up for scrap.
Before work can start on Jay-Jay, he is sold to a group of people who have a new purpose for him - as a children's playbus.
Jay-Jay is the narrator of this story, and we learn how he feels about the prospect of being broken up, the refurbishment, and his new status in the community.
This is a delightful, happy ending tale, with Jay-Jay being given a new lease of life. It is written in easily understandable language for young readers, whilst introducing a few more difficult words to extend their vocabulary.
This is the first of several books in this series, and one which I'd recommend for young readers, especially those with an interest in buses.
My thanks to author Sue Wickstead for a free copy of this book to review.
May 22, 2015
Saved from a distressing situation, Jay-Jay overhears that the deal is complete. No, he won't be broken up into pieces. He's happy to know he'll no longer be lonely in the scrap yard again. He has felt in-significant for quite sometime now staying in a place where old buses go. Things are different now because he has been taken to an airport where exciting changes are magically beginning to transform Jay-Jay into a Playbus. The two things close to Jay-Jay's heart, children and the love of playing, give him renewed purpose. Come along for the journey and read about tea sets and dress up clothes. Plus, there's toys and games and a train track inside. The illustrations are warm and charming. You'll discover the newly painted bus with bright colors has a new name, Jay-Jay The Supersonic Bus and he proudly receives an award from the Queen. New imaginative adventures begin with a play group for the younger children on the famous playbus. Such a nice story. My grandchildren love it!
May 25, 2019
My introduction for this book should have given you a good idea of HOW MUCH I LOVED THIS BOOK! I am not ashamed to admit that I love to read children’s books, not just for my boys…but for me too. I love to escape into a crazy, imagined world where anything is possible. I have always been a big believer in encouraging children to read and be interested in books. My boys love a good story, and especially ones which have them captivated from the start.
Jay Jay, the Supersonic Bus was a wonderful story, which had heart. It told the lovely story of a bus from a scrapyard, who was made useful again. The story was lovely and we as a family, rooted for Jay Jay and we were fascinated by his character. My boys listened intently as I read each page to them and were left satisfied and pleased when we got the final page. My youngest asked if there were more books with Jay Jay in and I was so happy to tell him that there were. 🙂
Brilliant writing! Brilliant Story! Great read for children!
Jay Jay, the Supersonic Bus was a wonderful story, which had heart. It told the lovely story of a bus from a scrapyard, who was made useful again. The story was lovely and we as a family, rooted for Jay Jay and we were fascinated by his character. My boys listened intently as I read each page to them and were left satisfied and pleased when we got the final page. My youngest asked if there were more books with Jay Jay in and I was so happy to tell him that there were. 🙂
Brilliant writing! Brilliant Story! Great read for children!
April 24, 2015
I was given my copy for free in exchange for an honest review from Publishing Push.
This is an adorable story of a bus who finds a new purpose in life. The story is interesting and would definitely have moral significance for children reading it.
The watercolour illustrations throughout are on every page and really bring the events to life. They are detailed and grab the readers' attention making for a quick and bright read.
The only downside that I can thought of whilst reading this was that apart from the bus itself there aren't any characters which makes it quite difficult at times to connect to the story.
Overall I would recommend this book to people with very young children but it's not really a children's book that as an adult I can get much out of. One I would recommend but to the right audience.
This is an adorable story of a bus who finds a new purpose in life. The story is interesting and would definitely have moral significance for children reading it.
The watercolour illustrations throughout are on every page and really bring the events to life. They are detailed and grab the readers' attention making for a quick and bright read.
The only downside that I can thought of whilst reading this was that apart from the bus itself there aren't any characters which makes it quite difficult at times to connect to the story.
Overall I would recommend this book to people with very young children but it's not really a children's book that as an adult I can get much out of. One I would recommend but to the right audience.
May 21, 2024
Firstly, I really like the spot illustrations. They complement without taking over and provide enough of a quick snap shot of the page to work perfectly. These illustrations are important in my opinion to engage children who may not be that keen on reading and yes, I’m specifically thinking of boys of this age.
The story is well written without unnecessary buffing. I liked the voice of Jay-Jay who comes across as very approachable – I think children would really connect well with the character. Speaking of the character this is a great story that could be used for personification activities in the classroom. I would also be looking at using it to make text-to-world connections – particularly from a history perspective (this is perhaps more relevant for my UK readers where these playbuses seemed very popular in the 70s!).
The story is well written without unnecessary buffing. I liked the voice of Jay-Jay who comes across as very approachable – I think children would really connect well with the character. Speaking of the character this is a great story that could be used for personification activities in the classroom. I would also be looking at using it to make text-to-world connections – particularly from a history perspective (this is perhaps more relevant for my UK readers where these playbuses seemed very popular in the 70s!).
May 2, 2022
Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus is a lovely story about a bus named Jay-Jay who was rescued from a scrap yard and given a new life as Supersonic where he gets to enjoy being around lots of children and fun activities.
This is a really fun story and it flows so well to read. We loved the character of Jay-Jay and it was nice to see how he learnt that he could still be appreciated and needed even if it's not in the traditional way a bus would be used.
The illustrations are colourful and eye catching and the children loved to see all of the vehicles within the story as well as the toys and big makeover Jay-Jay had as they thought it looked like a lot of fun.
This is a lovely story to show how we all have worth and a purpose and it's nice to see Jay-Jay being shown more love and care after his transformation. This is such a heartwarming and positive story that we enjoyed reading.
This is a really fun story and it flows so well to read. We loved the character of Jay-Jay and it was nice to see how he learnt that he could still be appreciated and needed even if it's not in the traditional way a bus would be used.
The illustrations are colourful and eye catching and the children loved to see all of the vehicles within the story as well as the toys and big makeover Jay-Jay had as they thought it looked like a lot of fun.
This is a lovely story to show how we all have worth and a purpose and it's nice to see Jay-Jay being shown more love and care after his transformation. This is such a heartwarming and positive story that we enjoyed reading.
February 4, 2019
Based on a true story this is a wonderful story to share with children. It spreads hope among adults also, as it is about finding new purpose.
I love watching television shows about repurposing and fixing things up and giving them new life. When Jay Jay thinks his usefulness is over and he is sent to a scrapyard, he gets more and more sad as he sees the vehicles around him taken apart and falling into rusty pieces.
One day some creative people arrive and change his life, allowing him to go on and change the lives of others. Jay Jay spreads happiness and finds a new way to be useful.
Beautifully illustrated and exciting to read.
I love watching television shows about repurposing and fixing things up and giving them new life. When Jay Jay thinks his usefulness is over and he is sent to a scrapyard, he gets more and more sad as he sees the vehicles around him taken apart and falling into rusty pieces.
One day some creative people arrive and change his life, allowing him to go on and change the lives of others. Jay Jay spreads happiness and finds a new way to be useful.
Beautifully illustrated and exciting to read.
April 9, 2017
Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus is a great read that will be enjoyed by kids. The pictures are bright, colorful and full of life. It's the story of an old, near broken down bus being brought back to life and used in an amazing way to create fun and excitement for others. The neatest part of the story is it's told from the view of Jay-Jay the bus. Then at the end we discover another amazing part about the stories inspiration. Well done.
I was provided with a free copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I was provided with a free copy of this title in return for an honest review.
August 24, 2017
A Supersonic Children’s Story
This story is based on a true story about a bus that is given a second chance and becomes a supersonic star in the hearts of children. Children of all ages will enjoy reading about the old bus JJK 261 Route B and will discover how it became Jay-Jay the Supersonic Playbus. Jay-Jay has a cheerful disposition and just loves bringing joy to children. This is a great read for early readers and the excellent illustrations will keep the pages turning. Author, Sue Wickstead, also known as Lego Lady, has captured Jay Jay’s adventures beautifully.
This story is based on a true story about a bus that is given a second chance and becomes a supersonic star in the hearts of children. Children of all ages will enjoy reading about the old bus JJK 261 Route B and will discover how it became Jay-Jay the Supersonic Playbus. Jay-Jay has a cheerful disposition and just loves bringing joy to children. This is a great read for early readers and the excellent illustrations will keep the pages turning. Author, Sue Wickstead, also known as Lego Lady, has captured Jay Jay’s adventures beautifully.
March 28, 2018
Good book for children. The illustrations are bright and colourful and will certainly draw attention to them, the story of Jay-Jay is fun and easy to follow. Definitely one for the little ones to enjoy
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