I really enjoy the setting, the language, and the wonderful stylized illustrations. On top of that, it's a clever look at "going modern" and deciding where the boundaries are on technology. ( )

In 1903, the Tweedle family buys a small, green, electric car, much to the disapproval of their neighbors. Electricity is new, and most people in the Tweedles' town drive gas or steam powered vehicles. In response to their neighbors' criticisms, the Tweedles repeat the chorus, "It's electric!, It's green! It's smart!". This is a story about technology at the turn of the century and also a commentary on today's climate crisis and people's unwillingness to change. Young children will appreciate this book for its funny moments and vibrant illustrations. Older children and adults will understand the book's fuller message. The Tweedles Go Electric would be a great text for teaching students about climate change and sustainability in the classroom. ( )

This adorable book is written in a wink-nod, tongue-in-cheek style, referencing the current concept of 'green' technology. It's 1903, and this smart little family decides to buy an electric car instead of one that runs on steam or gas. They're the equivalent of the first family on the block to buy a Prius. The illustrations bring to mind the French designer Poiret or the paintings of Toulouse Lautrec, and the characters are quirky and upbeat. ( )

The Tweedles are a family that have just entered the turn of the century. All of their neighbors are keeping up with the times, owning steam and gas powered cars. After a bit of ridicule from their neighbors, Mr. Tweedle decides it is time that they bought a car. To the shock of everyone, the Tweedles purchase an electric car. Frances Tweedle is the only family member not excited about the new car. Her attitude changes when she is the only one who can drive the car to the doctor after Mr. Hamm hurts himself.

A silly book about a family keeping up with the times, The Tweedles Go Electric is sure to get a giggle out of young readers. The text is a bit small and blends in with the background on a few pages, but the writing is witty and silly with it's repeated "It's electric!" As silly as it is, there really was an electric car in the early 1900s, though most people opted for gas cars because electricity was new. It was a cute story, but the ending itself felt like a sudden jump. One second, Frances is proud of herself for being brave and driving the car, but the very next sentence is about how she becomes a race car driver. Maybe it's just me, but it feels like an odd jump to make.

The artwork has dulled down colors to sport an older look and make it look like winter time. It does bring up the issue of which type of power is best for a car, something that is more relevant today with the introduction of electric cars. ( )

The clever Tweedle family are bound to attract a slew of young fans with this infectiously fun and visually fetching tale. I wanted to jump into the book the way Mary Poppins and her young charges did with chalk drawings, and stay there awhile. ( )