Delmar the Dinky and the Animal Circus

Kids will love this—it they are school age, they will relate to Delmar’s dilemma, like the frustration when the teacher doesn’t recognize a student who is trying to answer/help/participate. All kids know the times distracted parents don’t respond, too. That Delmar is heard and “proud to help” in the end is so reassuring!The clear historical connection with a real animal circus and the 1904 World’s Fair is a big plus, for I love it when the kids learn something factual along with picking up life skills. Their vocabulary grew via word usage—I applauded mentions like “pecking grain from the hopper car.”Using the outfits from the early 20th century added so much, as did using animal sounds.I wish the dinky = small trolley was clearer, we missed the mention and wondered about what is a “dinky.”The illustrations in the form of stitched cloth are warm, welcoming, and comfortable—the kids felt drawn into them!This is a short “read-it-again!” book that’s a huge success with kids from pre-school to early readers. They all want more Delmar!

I was so excited to get part two of Delmar's story and look forward to the next. A beautiful story with great illustrations. Kudos to the author for creating such a cute story with wonderful lessons along the way. A great gift for the little ones in your life. I highly recommend for sure.

I adore the Dinky series! Filled with amazing illustrations, with so much detail, they’re sure to keep the child’s attention. Nothing can stop Delmar, he’s bound and determined to make a difference. This book is an encouraging and enlightening lesson to never give up. Loved and highly recommended!

This book teaches children how to use their voice and speak up for themselves. I especially loved the illustrations. It's also unique and teaches history in a fun way.

This book has a nice story line and the illustrations are beautiful. I appreciated the information about the St. Louis world fair.

I love Delmar the Dinky. The story is about never giving up! My grandchildren giggled and I enjoyed reading it to them.

What a cute little story/history lesson all-in-one. Reminiscent of Thomas the Train, this book follows Dinky as he "saves the day," though he had a little trouble getting it done, at first. I was slightly daunted by the historical info at the beginning. I love history, but it made me wonder about the target age. That was cleared up quickly, when I turned the page. I wonder if that info could have gone in the back for parents to read or explain to children, afterwards. None-the-less, I think all the Thomas fans will love Delmar. What a fun story!

Delmar the Dinky is a delightful character that kids will love. He is persistent in his quest to help others. This book teaches children perseverance and problem-solving. I especially love the continued connections to the World's Fair and the influence of St. Louis, this author's hometown. What a fun picture book series!