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Don?t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus

Name: Don?t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus
ISBN: 9780786819881

by Mo Willems

8.66 / 10 108K ratings

Language: Spanish
Published: 2022
Publisher: Hyperion Books
Pages: 40
ISBN: 9780786819881

A bus driver needs to step away for a moment and leaves the reader with one crucial instruction: do not let the pigeon drive the bus. This feathered character, however, is determined to take the wheel. The pigeon employs a variety of tactics, from polite requests and promises to elaborate excuses and even outright tantrums, all aimed at convincing the reader to grant its wish.

This interactive picture book places young readers directly into the story, challenging them to stand firm against the pigeon's persistent pleas. It offers an engaging experience where children can practice saying "no" and understand the concepts of rules and responsibility, all while enjoying the pigeon's expressive personality.

Original edition

Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!

Originally published in 2003 English Bound to Stay Bound Books

Other editions (29)

Listen to the summary Narrated summary

Hey, listen, a very important person just left. He was driving this big, yellow bus, see? And he had to go, you know, for a little break. But before he zoomed off, he told you something super important. He said, "Don't let the pigeon drive the bus!" Can you believe that? Me? Drive the bus? What a silly idea!

Oh, hi there! So, I just noticed this bus. It's, like, right here. And, well, I have an idea! I could drive the bus! What do you think? I mean, I'm a bird, I'm good at flying, so driving? That's practically the same thing, right? No? Oh. Okay.

But seriously, can I drive the bus? Just for a little bit? I promise I'll be careful. I won't even go fast. Just a tiny spin around the block. Please? My cousin Herb drives a bus all the time, and he says it's a blast! You wouldn't want me to miss out on all the fun, would you?

Come on! Just let me steer! I'll hold it very, very steady. I'm a professional, you know. I have excellent hand-eye coordination. And wings! Think of how cool it would be. Everyone would say, "Look! That pigeon is driving the bus!" It would be amazing!

I'll tell you what. We can play a game! It's called "Drive the Bus," and I'll go first! That sounds like a great plan, doesn't it? We'll have so much fun. I could pick up all my friends! We could go anywhere! The park! The beach! Maybe even to the hot dog stand!

What do you mean, no?! Ugh! You never let me do anything! I really, really, really want to drive the bus! I'll give you five bucks! How about that? A whole five dollars! Or... I could clean the bus for you! For free! I'll make it sparkle! Just let me drive!

Oh, please, please, PLEASE! I'm begging you! I'm practically crying here! It's my life's dream! My feathers are ruffled just thinking about it! I just want to feel the wind in my... well, you know. The wind. Behind the wheel. Is that so much to ask?!

Fine! If you're not going to let me drive the bus, then I'll just sit here and be sad. Very, very sad. My little pigeon heart is breaking. This is the worst day ever. I never get to do anything fun. It's just not fair!

Oh, wait. Is that the bus driver coming back? Well, I guess my chance is gone. He's getting in. He's driving away. Hmph. Buses. Who needs 'em anyway? But hey, what's that over there? Is that a big red truck? A really, really big red truck? Hmm... I wonder if *I* could drive that!

What other readers say

Liked

Many reviewers praise "Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!" as a delightful, kooky, and clever read that brings joy to children and adults alike. Its simple yet witty writing, combined with the pigeon's expressive illustrations, creates a highly engaging and often hilarious experience. Readers frequently highlight the interactive nature of the book, where children are encouraged to actively participate by telling the persistent pigeon "no." This element is widely seen as an effective and fun way to teach valuable lessons about assertiveness, resisting peer pressure, patience, and understanding appropriate behavior. The book is often described as memorable, unique, and a great tool for fostering expressive reading, with many finding the pigeon's antics and "child-like" manipulative tactics both relatable and amusing.

Disliked

Despite its popularity, some readers express dissatisfaction, primarily with the book's minimalist artwork, with a few calling it "awful" and questioning its award recognition. The pigeon character itself can be a point of contention, described by some as annoying, obnoxious, or overly manipulative, making it difficult for certain adults to fully enjoy. A few reviewers also felt the book lacked a deeper "point" beyond encouraging children to shout "no," suggesting that other books offer more profound reader involvement. There were also comments that the repetitive nature of the pigeon's requests could be underwhelming for some children, leading to questions like "Is that it?"

In short

Overall, "Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!" is widely considered a highly effective and entertaining children's book, lauded for its interactive format and ability to spark laughter. It is particularly recommended for young children, typically aged three and up, who will enjoy the silly premise and the opportunity to engage directly with the story. Parents and educators looking for a fun way to introduce concepts like boundary-setting, assertiveness, and understanding different emotions will find this book a valuable resource. While its minimalist art style and repetitive structure may not appeal to every reader, its charm and educational potential make it a celebrated choice for family read-alouds and early childhood literacy.

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