Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! tells an interesting story of a persistent pigeon whose mission is to drive a bus after the driver has to go away for a little while. The driver tells the reader at the very beginning of the book to not let the pigeon drive the bus. Throughout the rest of the story, the pigeon pleads for the reader to let him have permission to drive the bus. The bird says such things as "Please?", "I never get to do anything.", and "What's the big deal?" The bus driver finally comes back and asks the reader if he/she let the pigeon drive the bus. The reader is supposed to say "No!" As the bus driver is driving away, the pigeon then spots a huge truck and imagines himself driving that vehicle.
I found this story enjoyable, humorous, and interactive. I believe the author did a fantastic job of engaging young readers from the very beginning of the story. I often found myself giggling at some of the illustrations. I really enjoyed how Willems applied speech bubbles to tell the story. I believe this format worked very well for this book. I also thought the use of soft colors and "kid-friendly" illustrations were effective.
As I read this story, I was actually reminded of myself when I was little girl and wanted to do things that weren't always in my best interest. I would like to have a dollar for every time I have said things like "Please?" and "No fair!"
Mo Willems has written a series of similar books on the character of the pigeon. He has also written and illustrated The Pigeon Wants a Puppy!, Don't Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late!, and The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!
One important aspect I have learned from reading this children's story is that a book doesn't have to contain many words to tell the story. Effective illustrations are a significant component of children's literature. I have also learned that children's literature can be very interactive.
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