Common Sense Media Review
Silliness that appeals to preschoolers.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 2+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 17 parent reviews
Based on 11 kid reviews
Kids say this book is hilarious and entertaining for young children, with many enjoying its humor and simple storyline about a pigeon trying to drive a bus. While it effectively conveys lessons about respect and boundaries, some adult readers find it simplistic, although it is embraced for its engaging illustrations and relatable characters.
- very funny
- good for kids
- teaches respect
- simple storyline
- engaging illustrations
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
On the title page, the bus driver addresses the reader directly. He says that he has to be gone for a while and asks if the reader can watch things, but not to let the pigeon drive the bus. As the driver walks off one page, the pigeon walks on the next asking if he can drive the bus. He begs, makes deals, pretends, complains, cajoles, bribes, and then insists that he be allowed to drive the bus, but his wish is not granted; so he fumes. The bus driver returns, thanks the reader, and drives off. The pigeon then spies a truck and a new fantasy takes hold of his imagination.
Is It Any Good?
Minimalist in approach, the author/artist uses a limited number of very pale colors, and most pages have a single image (usually the pigeon) and a bubble of text. The strength of the story is in its simplicity. The conflict between the two main characters, the bus driver and the pigeon, is one of the most basic in early childhood: "Yes I will" versus "no you won't."
Things gets interesting, however, when each character appeals directly to the reader. This direct discourse from the bus driver and the goofy, wide-eyed pigeon draws the reader, or listener in the case of young children, right between the opposing parties. For young children (who think magically anyway), this is bound to be flattering and fun. Mo Willems, who has won five Emmys as a writer and animator of Sesame Street, makes a fine debut into the world of children's books.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the pigeon's persistence. Why doesn't he take "no" for an answer?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Mo Willems
- Genre : Picture Book
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Hyperion Books for Children
- Publication date : February 1, 2004
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 2 - 6
- Number of pages : 32
- Award : Caldecott Medal and Honors
- Last updated : December 12, 2025
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