This sweet little children’s book follows a sunlit day in the life of three grandchildren—Greyson, Antonio, and Emerson—who visit their Pop Pop for a hands-on project: building a red wagon from scratch. Pop Pop welcomes the kids with open arms and gets right to work, guiding them through each step with patience and enthusiasm. There’s tool talk (“righty-tighty, lefty-loosey”), safety tips, and bursts of joy as the children help with wheels, paint, and even “hammer time.” It ends with a wagon ride to celebrate their hard work, followed by a hint at their next adventure.

I really enjoyed how down-to-earth and genuine this picture book felt. It just feels warm. The dialogue is natural, the scenes are colorful and fun, and the relationship between Pop Pop and the grandkids is the heartbeat of it all. There’s something comforting about the way Pop Pop gently teaches and includes each child. The author clearly wrote this from personal experience and love, and that shows on every page. It made me think of old summer days, of sawdust in the air, and of watching someone you love tinker with something in the garage.

The writing is simple and easy for young readers to follow or read on their own. It’s about capturing a vibe: quality time, working with your hands, and making memories. There’s real charm in the little details, like Pop Pop’s “cafe-o-le” or the kids’ nicknames (“Grey Grey,” “Tone Tone,” “Emmy”). The illustrations, also done by the author, are playful and fitting for young readers and fit the story well.

I’d recommend this kid’s book to grandparents looking for something heartfelt to read with their grandkids. It’s also a lovely choice for parents who want to share stories that emphasize creativity, cooperation, and cross-generational bonding. It’s not a wild ride, but it’s a good one—quiet, wholesome, and full of love. For anyone who values time spent building something together, The Wagon Ride hits home.

Pages: 26 | ASIN: B0DMZ358FL