Book Title: Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!
Author: Mo Willems
Published: 2003
Recommended Age Group: Pre-School, Elementary
Why We Recommend It: Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! is the first children’s book written by author Mo Willems and is the starting point in his series featuring his popular Pigeon character. The book won the Caldecott Honor (given for best picture book) in 2003 and highlights Willems’ comedic writing style that’s made him a favorite choice of both children and adults.
The book is pretty short (ideal for new readers) and features Pigeon speaking directly to the reader as he begs for permission to drive the unattended bus. The combination of a likable character, funny illustrations and direct engagement with the reader make this a really fun choice for teachers working with early readers or story time at home for pre-school aged children.
If you like Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!, we also recommend Willems’ other books in his Pigeon series!