Common Sense Media Review
By Carrie Kingsley
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Joyful story of routine, neighbors, and garbage trucks.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 2+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
EVERY MONDAY MABEL follows a young girl who eagerly awaits the arrival of the garbage truck each Monday. She pours her cereal, drags her chair to the driveway, and waits for the big event. As suspense and excitement build, the arrival of the truck is beyond thrilling. But when it's all over, Mabel notices that no one else in her family thinks it's "the best thing in the world," only her. As the trucks move on to other neighborhoods, readers see that Mabel's love of garbage trucks is shared by many others in her community.
Is It Any Good?
This delightful picture book is a fun read for young children who love garbage trucks, sounds, joy, families, and neighbors—so, pretty wide appeal. Every Monday Mabel captures the fun of rushing to watch big trucks make big sounds. The story's subtler, more tender message—that you're not alone—may be missed by Mabel, but every young reader will get it right away. Amused parents will see themselves in Mabel's parents, encouraging an adorable routine that they know their kid will someday outgrow. Creator Jashar Awan's illustrations are vivid, full of color and action, and it's refreshing to see a vehicle-themed book starring a girl of color. Playful text captures sound effects, making this a fun read-aloud for families and classrooms.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Mabel's parents encourage her routine in Every Monday Mabel. How do her parents show compassion for their child? Is it important to let people have fun doing things that bring them joy? What do you love to do? Who encourages you?
Do you like to share your favorite activities with other people or do them yourself?
What routines or traditions are important to you?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Jashar Awan
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Transportation ( Cars & Trucks )
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Gratitude
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : February 25, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 48
- Available on : Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Awards : ALA Best and Notable Books , Caldecott Medal and Honors , Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : April 23, 2026
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