If I Built a Car

WINNER OF THE E.B. WHITE READ-ALOUD AWARD – This beloved picture book launches Chris Van Dusen’s acclaimed If I Built series with a joyride through one young inventor’s wildest automotive dreams.

When Jack climbs into the back seat of his dad’s ordinary car, his imagination shifts into high gear. What if he could design his own vehicle from scratch? The result is a spectacular machine that’s part luxury liner, part rocket ship, and pure childhood wonder.

Jack’s dream car comes equipped with a swimming pool, a snack bar stocked with treats, and a robot chauffeur named Robert. Forget exhaust fumes—this engine releases the sweet scent of blueberry muffins and roses. One moment you’re deep-sea diving through ocean depths, the next you’re soaring above rush-hour traffic. It’s transportation as it should be: absolutely extraordinary.

Van Dusen’s energetic, rhyming verse bounces along with infectious rhythm, making this an ideal read-aloud for car-loving kids and their families. The detailed illustrations recall classic American automobiles while bursting with vibrant colors and playful details that reward multiple readings. Young readers will pore over every panel, discovering new surprises tucked into Jack’s fantastical design.

Perfect for budding engineers, creative thinkers, and anyone who’s ever gazed out a car window and dreamed bigger. This is imagination in the driver’s seat—and the journey is absolutely thrilling.

“Energetic verse and jubilant, action-packed artwork make this tale of a young inventor’s fantastic daydream a joy ride.” —Publishers Weekly

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