Baldwin's Big Christmas Delivery

PreS-Gr 2--Baldwin, a small switcher train, is distressed when he notices a forgotten Christmas present addressed to "Someone Special" at the train yard. Faced with the prospect of someone's disappointment, Baldwin leaps into action to deliver the package, undeterred by the potential dangers and impending snowstorm. The plucky switcher train's quest brings him into contact with many train cars and yards, but ultimately he is no match for the snow and needs to be rescued. Back home at his train yard, Baldwin laments his failure to deliver the gift--only to discover that it was meant for him the whole time. The artwork is a mixture of spreads and spot illustrations in primarily bold colors. At times the facial expressions of the train characters are hard to decipher and appear incongruous with the text. VERDICT A secondary purchase where train titles, such as the "Thomas & Friends" series, are popular.--Jessica Caron