Meet New Books
Book Cover

Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site

Save:
Find on Amazon

Who Would Like This Book:

If you have a little one who adores trucks, diggers, or anything with big wheels, this is a must-have bedtime book! The oil pastel illustrations are vibrant, expressive, and filled with charming details that bring the vehicles to life. The gentle rhyming text makes for delightful read-aloud moments, and the story’s soothing rhythm is perfect for winding down after a busy day. Preschoolers and early elementary kids - especially those fascinated by construction sites - will fall in love with these hard-working trucks as they snuggle in for the night.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers found the rhyming a bit forced in places, which can make it tricky to read aloud smoothly. Others thought the story might be a bit simple or repetitive, and not as educational as other picture books - mainly teaching truck names rather than broader lessons. A few wished for more gender diversity among the vehicles or found the idea of trucks putting themselves to bed a little odd, especially for older kids.

A sweet, visually captivating bedtime story that’s a dream come true for young truck lovers - especially perfect for calming nighttime routines, though best suited for the preschool set.

About:

'Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site' by Sherri Duskey Rinker is a heartwarming bedtime story that follows the journey of various construction vehicles as they wind down after a hard day's work. The book anthropomorphizes the machines, making them relatable and endearing to young readers. Through rhythmic rhymes and vivid illustrations, children are introduced to the different trucks and their functions on a construction site, culminating in a soothing and repetitive scheme that lulls them into a calm space before bedtime.

The book not only educates children about construction equipment in a fun and engaging manner but also instills the importance of rest and relaxation after a day of hard work. With its cute storyline, colorful illustrations, and gentle tone, 'Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site' provides a delightful reading experience for both boys and girls, making it a perfect choice for bedtime or nap time.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style consists of engaging, rhythmic rhymes that flow well, creating a soothing reading experience for children.

Plot/Storyline:

The story revolves around construction trucks winding down from their workday and getting ready for bed, highlighting the importance of rest after hard work.

Setting:

Set at a construction site, the story takes place during sunset as the day ends and night approaches.

Pacing:

The pacing is calm and gentle, effectively aligning with the book's bedtime theme.

Notes:

The book was published in 2011 and has become a perennial favorite.
The illustrations are done in oil pastel, featuring deep and vivid colors.
Each truck, such as Crane Truck and Cement Mixer, has distinct facial expressions that help convey their moods.
The rhyming text flows smoothly, making it enjoyable to read aloud and easy for kids to memorize.
The story emphasizes the importance of rest after a long day's work, making it relatable for children.
Tom Lichtenheld is the illustrator, known for vibrant and whimsical artwork that brings construction trucks to life.
The book uses repetition and rhyme, making it soothing for children during bedtime.
It personifies construction trucks, giving them human characteristics like feelings and routines.
The narrative captures a typical workday at a construction site, making it educational for young children interested in machinery.
The book appeals to both boys and girls, despite some commentary on gender assumptions in children's literature.

From The Publisher:

After a long, tough day of building buildings and making roads, a buzzing construction site begins to shut down. Each personality-filled truck, from crane to bulldozer, performs one last task and quietly drifts to sleep. It's time for all to rest and dream.

Informative and sweet, this picture book takes each vehicle from warm day to dreamy night with expressive oil pastel illustrations by critically acclaimed illustrator Tom Lichtenheld.

"A standout picture book." - Booklist, starred review

April 2011

Reader Stats (3):

Read It (2)
Not Interested (1)
 
Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.