Book Review: If I Built a Car by Chris Van Dusen

Book: If I Built a Car 
Author: Chris Van Dusen
Illustrator: Chris Van Dusen
Published: 2005
Source: Local Library

A boy tells his dad all about the car he will invent. This isn’t any old jalopy--it contains a pool, a snack bar, and a robot that will drive if you want to take a nap. But wait, there’s more! It’ll be made of a special squishy material rather than steel. Plus, it’ll transform into a boat, a submarine, AND it’ll fly!

Chris Van Dusen capitalizes on the innovative, anything-can-happen air of the 1950s with his illustrations. From the geometric designs on the furniture to the peach-and-teal color scheme of the car, even to the funky two-level nightstand in the boy’s room, lovers of retro decor will adore this book. Also sure to be fans: car lovers and invention-seekers.