Towed by Toad

by Jashar Awan

Hop on a tow-truck ride with Toad as he learns that everyone needs help sometimes, even the helpers! The first in a new series for fans of Frog and Toad and Little Blue Truck!

"No time, Pop! Can't stop!"

Toad and his tow truck are always on the move to lend a hand to anyone who needs help. Whether it's a flat tire or engine trouble, it's Toad to the rescue!

Pop does his best to try to get Toad to slow down and take care of himself, but there always seems to be someone else who needs to be towed by Toad. How can he say no?

Toad is so used to being the problem solver that when his tow truck breaks down, he does everything he can to fix it himself — and can't! What happens when the helper needs help?

Playful, funny and refreshingly sweet, Towed by Toad is a peppy read-aloud full of fascinating vehicles and endearing characters.

Genres: Picture Books, Animals, Storytime, Transport, Childrens, Humor, Fiction

48 pages, Hardcover

First published September 3, 2024

Reviews

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obviously the title is exquisite, but this is also a swell book in its entirety.

Though the words are sparse, the message about everyone needing help (even the helpers) is clear, and the illustrations are expressive and funny. The predatory Bowser-esque cat driver is terrifying. If I were to pitch this to adult readers, I would say it is a cautionary tale about the unsustainability of a poor work/life balance. We need to take our meal breaks!

For fans of Matthew Forsythe (especially Pokko and the Drum), Jon Klassen, and Mo Willems.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this picture book, Toad works hard as a tow truck driver, but after his vehicle breaks down, he has to accept that he needs help, too. The illustrations are cute and full of energy, and this will especially appeal to kids who love transportation vehicles. I appreciate how the story conveys a message, teaching that even the helpers need help sometimes. This is a great book for families to enjoy together, and it will work well as a group read-aloud in classroom and library settings.

This book also made me think of one of my favorite books from childhood, How Many Trucks Can a Tow Truck Tow? by Charlotte Pomerantz.

I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Alexander Peterhans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Toad runs a car garage with his dad. He's always there to help other (animal) people with their broken down cars, until his own tow truck breaks down. A little book about helping others but don't forget to ask for help when you need it yourself.

The art is effing stellar. Really great, teeth-itchingly cuter than cute. What a perfect little book.

(Thanks to Tundra Books for providing me with an ARC through Edelweiss)

[Pam Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun, rollicking book with vehicles and characters kids will love. Perfect for storytime!

[Chance Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Skunky van der Stink is the best name ever for a skunk Subtle details -- Mayor Hop is going to have a small public scandal on his paws. Artwork is so adorable it hurts. Smooth text. Impeccable.

[Court · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Everyone needs help sometimes. Even the helpers."

My heart just grew three sizes.

[Brittany Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

A funny picture book about a toad that tows cars! The pictures are great! Great story for early readers.

[Jessica Calaway · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading age
3 - 7 years



Theodor Seuss Geisel Award Nominee

[Ashlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super cute! 🐸🛻

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This makes the 200th book I read in 2025, with hours to spare! This book struck me as fine until the ending elevated it to superb with pointing out that the helpers can need help too! I thoroughly enjoyed the humor in the book as well. The text and illustrations are both excellent! 2025 Geisel Honor Award.

[Jane Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun, relatable story with lots of details to engage toddlers from opposite words, a variety of kid-favorite vehicles and an energetic, helpful toad character! Artwork is stunning. Would make an excellent read aloud!

[Karla Fasso · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Pop calls his son to eat breakfast, Toad tells him that he can’t stop! In a flash he heads to his tow truck and takes off. On the road, big cars, little cars, old and new all have places to go. But no matter who it is or what they’re driving, everybody needs help sometimes – and Toad is happy to help. Up against all manner of accidents and mechanical failures, Toad gets the job done with a smile. But soon, even Toad needs help when his tow truck breaks down on the road. Accustomed to saving everyone else, he avoids asking for help and tries to fix his truck by himself in vain… will he ever ask for help? In this encouraging tale, even independent little toads will find that it’s OK to be humble and call for help sometimes. A very entertaining read, with quirky character names and funny illustrations that are sure to make young readers laugh!

Publishing Date September 3rd 2024 ...Thank you to Netgalley and Tundra Books for sharing an advanced digital copy with me. The review is solely based on my own analysis and is of my own words.

[Ccaywood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tow truck driver is probably not among the usual jobs presented to children as community helpers, but as Toad says, “Everyone needs help sometimes.” This Toad and his tow truck are too busy for breakfast or lunch. And after a long day of towing, the truck breaks down and even Toad needs help.

The illustrations are flat color shapes on a white background with just enough detail to capture the essence of the vehicles and their punfully-named animal drivers. Adult readers will recognize the SUV-driving bully and chuckle at Mayor Hop trying to hide from a reporter. The pictures are sufficient to tell the story but the short text enhances it. The words flow naturally from the story and don’t feel constrained by vocabulary lists or awkward rhymes. The large type will help beginning readers.

Towed by Toad is a Geisel Honor Book. The Geisel Award is given to the most distinguished American book for beginning readers published during the preceding year. https://www.ala.org/news/2025/01/ame-...

[Shan · Rating 4 out of 5]

#towedbytoad #NetGalley

Cute book! I thought the illustrations were done well and worked nicely with the overall theme. The only thing I will say about the drawings is there seemed to be some things in the pictures (i.e. people on cell phones after a crash) that kids wouldn't relate to or appreciate. This isn't necessarily a problem, and it gives something for the adults reading along to observe, it was just something I noticed.

Lastly, although it wasn't super in-your-face, I did appreciate the subtle moral of the story, and it was plainly spelled out for the readers, which was great. The moral was also important: everyone needs help sometimes, and everyone can - and should - ask for help when they need it. The ending was heartwarming as well, because Toad then realizes he doesn't need to be burning himself out helping others and he can take time for himself and his family sometimes, too.

[Reading Adventures · Rating 5 out of 5]

My husband and some of our family have driven a tow truck for many decades and so this story was perfect for us. I love that my children could really connect with the story. We follow this adventure with Toad who is always on the go and busy helping others with his tow truck. His dad is always trying to get him to slow down a bit, even having to remind him to take time to eat. So what happens when Toad breaks down?He can’t tow himself,so what can he do? Toad has to learn to take time and to let others help him. This was a fun and silly story. The author does a wonderful job of creating a simple and engaging story. The Illustrations are also simple, colorful and make the story complete. We loved this story. We received this as an ebook ARC but we can’t wait to add it to our home collection and to give some to the family as well. Your family will love this little adventure.

[Elayne Crain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone has places to be! That is...until car trouble hits (sometimes literally!). Never fear, though--Toad is ready and happy to answer the call with his tow truck. In fact, Toad prides himself on being a helper.

Still, when the inevitable happens, and HE needs assistance--he finds it can sometimes be so much harder to accept help than to give it.

Outside of the sweet, relatable story, though, there are also moments of hilarity! Without being a spoiler, I found Toad's breakfast, hints of classic animal pairings (and fun names!), and even a paparazzo all merry-makingly lovely. The charming art is vibrant and seems to "hop" right off the page.

Perfect for Richard Scarry, P. D. Eastman, and other "animals driving vehicles" fans, which is to say: everyone, Towed by Toad is toad-ally delightful.

[Jordan Tu'ulauulu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley and Tundra Books for an E-ARC in exchange for my, and my son's, honest reviews.

Edit to add: the next night, my son asked to read one of our new books (we have several) and when I asked him which one, he said "Towed by Toad!" So this one is a definite keeper.

Such a cute book! The illustrations are bright and fun to look at, the words are simple enough for a young child to understand. The message is sweet and shows how everyone needs help every once in a while and it's okay to ask for help. I read this with my 4 year old and he enjoyed it! After reading it he asked to read it again so that's a plus. When this book comes out in September I would love to purchase a physical copy.

[Melki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVE the artwork here! Images are super crisp, bright and colorful, planted on a white background - very eye-catching! Awan starts out channeling both Richard Scarry with his animals in cars, AND Dr. Seuss with his simple declarations:
Big cars.
Little cars.
Old cars.
New cars.
And, then he branches off into his own unique story all about helping others, and, very occasionally, admitting you may need help yourself.

Simply told, engaging, and fun, this one's a definite winner.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Tundra Books for the read.

[Mother Goose Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

2025 Theodore Geisel Honor

Towed By Toad written and illustrated by Jashar Awan is a straightforward and entertaining story about Toad and his work as a tow truck driver. He’s very busy helping a diverse group of animals who drive a variety of different types of vehicles and have varying issues. What happens when Toad’s tow truck has a problem? Who will help him? Young readers will enjoy Toad’s tale and learn that even the helpers need help sometimes. The illustrations were drawn digitally. Be sure to take a peek under the dust jacket. Every preschool and early elementary classroom should have a copy of Towed By Toad in their classroom library. It’s perfect for a transportation Read aloud or when learning about community helpers. Highly recommended.

[Shanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one was so cute. Toad and his father run a towing business. Things get pretty busy. Toad sometimes forgets to eat lunch because he is so busy helping other animals. This book reminded me of Richard Scarry’s Busytown books because the cars kind of fit each character’s personality. There was a Mini for a mouse and a muddy truck for a pig. Also, the character of William Goat-Gruff is so hilarious because of the classic fairytale. I also liked the rat driving the pizza car. Anyway, Toad spends much of his time helping others, but when he needs help, who does he call? An important reminder that even the best helpers need help sometimes. And it’s okay to ask for help!

Mia’s 2nd Year of Books: Day 365 Can’t believe it’s been 365 days of reading every night! :)

[that.bookishbrunette tammi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet story. The book follows Toad as he helps different forest animals by towing them where they need to go. What I liked most is how the story shows kindness and helping others in a really simple way that young readers can easily understand.

The illustrations are colorful and playful, and they add a lot of personality to the animals. I also liked how the story builds a little humor along the way, which keeps it fun while still sharing a message about friendship and being helpful.

I think this would be a great read-aloud for younger kids because the story flows well and the pictures give a lot to talk about. Overall, it’s a cute story with a positive message about helping others and being part of a community.

[Cuppa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Towed by Toad, a picture book by Jashar Awan introduces us to the noble character, Toad, who drives a tow truck. Toad is always rushing around, happy to be helping people. It seems like there is no shortage of people and vehicles who need help. But what will Toad do when he finds himself in a situation where he is the one who needs help. Sometimes accepting help is more difficult than offering help. The book is filled with bright, colorful illustrations that draw the reader in. Be on the lookout for subtle word play as well, For example, one of the drivers is a William Goat Gruff who perhaps in his younger days might have gone by Billy. This is a fun, engaging story for reading aloud.

[Katie LeDuc · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House Canada for the Pre-Pub in exchange for my honest review.

Toad loves to help people and spends his days rescuing stranded community members with his tow truck. With that being said , what happens when the helper needs to ask for help? This adorable tale highlights the importance of self care and asking for help. Toad is such a cute protagonist; I really enjoyed the book! The sentences are very simple with playful illustrations, so it's a great option for a Pre-K storytime! My little patrons that are in love with transportation and vehicles will be super excited to take this one home. 4 stars

[Amy Oberts]

*A 2025 TSGeisel Honor Book
*Ordered in response to Jbrary's 2024 post:


From "jump," Toad's nature comes through as he replies, "No time, Pop! Can't stop!," when called to breakfast. Toad is a cheerful helper, always on the lookout to serve. Pop tries to get him to slow down, but Toad is on a MISSION.

However, when faced with a bump in the road, even Toad's optimism and problem-solving approach aren't enough...so what happens when a "helper" needs help?!?

A delightful, fresh story that combines the zaniness of transportation with a heartfelt life lesson!

[Jessica Tracy · Rating 2 out of 5]

I like the lesson this book teaches, that even the best of helpers need help. It is good to help, and be helped. However, I didn't love the writing or the illustrations. Reading this to a kid wasn't that great of an experience. One maybe two sentences per spread, sometimes only one word or no words. The writing to flip through and read would take less than 30 seconds. So to have to read so little and then briefly look at the (in my opinion) meh illustrations was a little mind numbing for me and the child.

I didn't love the bright very modern illustrations, but I think that's more up to personal preferences.

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think that my 5 year old nephew will enjoy Towed by Toad. He will be home for spring break soon and I'm anxious to get his opinion. (I'll update my post after we read it together.)

Text and digital illustrations by Jashar Awan were age appropriate for a 5 year old.

Thank you to NetGalley and Tundra Books, a division of Penguin Random House of Canada Limited for the opportunity to review the advance read copy in exchange for an honest review. 48 pages, estimated publication date is 03 Sept 2024.

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun cute read! Follows the character Toad who is a car mechanic/tower who helps others with their car. The story teaches that it’s okay to ask for help . I found this book to be kid funny especially at the end. The beginning reminds me of little bit like like a dr. Seuss books. Pictures are great - Not overwhelming but not too little imagery. Quick read too, so I would recommend for toddlers/young kids to read. Plan on buying myself to have a physical copy to reread again. Thank you for the arc Netgalley!

[Nicole Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.

Toad is always on the road helping people, but what happens when they need help? First of all, I adore the illustrations in this book. They remind me a bit of Richard Scarry but bubbly. The text is simple, rhyming at times, and effective as we follow Toad through the days and the times they need to stop and help themselves. The theme of helping yourself and the helpers in your life is important and this little book is a great way to teach your littles. Great for gearheads and anyone who needs to remember to stop and ask for help.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book won me over right from the start. As soon as I saw Pop frying up a fly for breakfast I was sold. From Davey Dog who hit a log or Mayor Hop who forgot to stop, a lot of people need Toad's help. But Toad learns that sometimes even the helpers have to ask for help. The illustrations are adorable. Toad's desire to help makes him an endearing character and I love how his father is always there in the background ready to offer support. It is a sweet, cute story that I think any child will love and it teaches them that you should not be afraid to ask for help.

[Connie T. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Toad drives a tow truck and helps when skunk breaks down, the cat has a flat, or the dog hit a log. Toad is happy to help them all. When his tow truck breaks down and he can't get it going, he calls his dad back at the shop, explaining that even the helpers need help sometimes.

This is a simple story with a straightforward message. I had a hard time visualizing the skunk when he broke down. The artwork didn't make sense to me as his phone looked like part of his face. I also didn't like the rhyming phrases such as "Mayor Hop forgot to stop. Stanley Snout's engine fell out."