Fire Engine No. 9
Sound the alarm! There’s a fire at the corner of Fourth and Main, and the crew of Engine No. 9 are on their way to help. Readers of all ages will get caught up in the action, from the suddenness of the fire alert to the bravery of fighting the flames. This story captivates the reader by focusing not only on the vehicles and buildings involved, but also the individuals who respond to the call for help and the family who faces loss and then finds the strength to rebuild. Each page features a sound word that captures the energy of the illustrations. In addition, the inside front and back cover contain labeled images of firefighting equipment, and the back page provides tips for what to do during a home fire. If you have been struggling to find an action-packed book that will engage young readers, rest assured, Fire Engine No. 9 is on its way to rescue you!
Pennsylvania Center for the Book Awards
Book Activities & Discussion Ideas
Before reading the story, talk to children about what firefighters might need to take with them when going to fight a fire. What might they need to do, and what tools, clothing, or equipment would help them succeed? Document their ideas, and then look together at the items labeled inside the front and back cover of the book. Are there any items the children have questions about? When reading the story, ask children to keep an eye out for these items in action. In the story, the firefighters work as a team and each member has an important job, such as attaching the hose to the hydrant, driving the truck, or breaking the window. After reading the story, ask children if they can think of jobs in the classroom or at home in which everyone has a role and accomplishes a goal as a team. In the case of a fire, the members of a team need to act fast. It might be fun to set up a small obstacle course that involves sounding an alarm, running, pulling, climbing, and/or putting on a fire costume coat or hat, and let children experience the action!
Don’t be afraid to let children get their hands on this book! Adults can encourage children to take the lead in holding the book, turning pages, and turning the book when the illustrations depict vertical images such as whooshing down the pole or climbing the ladder. Adults can use their fingers when reading to point to each word and draw attention to the text. It won’t take long before children are chiming in with the sound effects. Children may also enjoy using their finger to trace the path that the firetruck takes on the illustrated map showing the path to the fire. The end of the book presents some tips for what to do during a home fire. Adults may want to consider a plan for their family in case of an emergency and discuss this together as a family after reading the story.