Big Truck Little Island

When a big truck gets wedged tight on a narrow island road, everything comes to a standstill. Cars need to head north, others need to go south, and nobody’s going anywhere. Sound familiar? If you’ve ever been stuck in traffic on a tiny coastal road, you’ll love this charming tale inspired by a real incident on Vinalhaven, Maine.

Big Truck Little Island is pure Chris Van Dusen magic—clever rhyming text that bounces along like waves against a dock, paired with his signature whimsical illustrations bursting with detail. Kids will pore over every page, counting cars and spotting hidden surprises while adults will appreciate the gentle lesson tucked inside: sometimes the best solutions come from working together.

When Meg needs to get to her swim meet and Barry can’t miss ballet class, the island’s kids hatch an ingenious plan. Why not swap cars? It’s resourceful, it’s simple, and it’s exactly the kind of creative thinking that makes island life special. This story celebrates the ingenuity and community spirit that emerges when neighbors help neighbors—a value that feels right at home here in coastal Maine.

Perfect for young readers who love:

• Cars, trucks, and all things transportation
• Problem-solving and teamwork
• Stories rooted in real Maine island life
• Read-aloud rhymes that stick in your head (in the best way)

Whether you’re a year-round Mainer or a summer visitor, this book captures that special island ingenuity we know so well. It’s a keeper for your shelf—right next to the window with the ocean view.

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