The little horse bus

There are some books that I really, really wonder how they made the 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up list. This is one of those. Yes, the author is the magnificent author Graham Greene (though, it should be noted, I think, he is generally thought of as very much of an author for grownups, not kids). Yes, the illustrator is the magnificent illustrator Edward Ardizzone (who actually illustrates and/or writes a grand total of seven books on the 1001 list).

But is that enough to put this book on this list? Are there other, murkier reasons that I do not know? I liked it just fine, but it's shiny special-ness eluded me.

The plot is a simple tale of progress vs. tradition. Mr. Potter's Shop is the place where everyone does their marketing. Until the Hygienic Emporium opens up. Desperately trying to compete with a grand hansom cab used by the emporium for deliveries, Mr. Potter tidies up an old horse bus.

Old always beats new in children's stories. Not in the obvious ways, as new is always faster and shinier. But in the important ways.

A 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up.