The Big Concrete Lorry by Shirley Hughes

I don't think I've blogged about this one before - its so well loved I stopped noticing it, which was a real pity. The Big Concrete Lorry has been in the family since my eldest was the youngest and is now as well worn and loved as the dishwasher, or maybe our stripey couch.

We all know Shirley Hughes' hero Alfie, but this book is his Trotter Street neighbours, the Pattersons.

The Pattersons love their happy, overflowing, untidy home, but need more space. What to do?

(Who else loves the mess in these pictures? The perfect antidote to pinteresty perfectness, right?)

So, they have a family conference and decide that Dad will build an extension. Mum is a bit worried - is he taking on too great a task? But he reassures her. They have their lovely Trotter Street friends, who are always willing to lend a hand.

It all begins well. The bricks area delivered, the foundations are dug and an inspector visits to make sure everything has been done properly. Next on the list is the concrete. Which comes in The Big Concrete Lorry. Now I won't tell you what happens next, but it involves a lot of excitement and lots more wonderful illustrations.

Such a pefect, perfect book.

Essential in every home with kids under six, particularly if they are interesting in building sites.