Book Review: “Elbow Grease Vs. Motozilla” by John Cena
Recommended reading age: 4 to 6 (though kids of all ages can enjoy reading this with their families)
What Makes This One of the Best Children’s Books
When most people think of Hollywood actor John Cena, they likely conjure images of his goofy-aggressive characters from box-office films like “The Suicide Squad” and “Vacation” (both of which are definitely not for children).
Or some might just imagine Cena’s brawny physique that looks capable of easily hefting a tractor.
But like many A-list actors, Cena achieved blockbuster status through hard work, and he didn’t do it alone – and Cena channels both of these life lessons in his high-spirited children’s book “Elbow Grease Vs. Motozilla.”
In fact, this book comes packed with values that most parents strive to instill.
As readers follow the struggles of ambitious monster truck Elbow Grease – a determined underdog who worries he’ll never match his brothers’ superstardom – he pushes himself rigorously in training and always tries his best, even if he never comes out on top.
Eventually, the time arrives for a showdown with the terrifying Motozilla, a beast of a machine that makes vehicles shake in their hubcaps at monster-truck rallies. Here, Elbow Grease discovers that he shines in a different way than other monster trucks – as a leader, by orchestrating an elaborate plan that his brothers help bring to fruition.
Through relentless practice and teamwork, they vanquish their metal nemesis.
How many of these themes will make parents’ hearts swell? Practice. Leadership. Teamwork.
It’s a treasure trove of principles to live by, all in a thrilling, monster-truck package. And Howard McWilliam’s splashy illustrations help drive the story, especially with monster trucks conducting acrobatic maneuvers on almost every page.
Added to that, the book focuses strongly on family and supporting loved ones. While Elbow Grease’s brothers constantly surpass him in training, they always applaud his effort and cheer him on. They compete alongside each other, and not against each other.
With so many heartfelt lessons in this book, I’ve never minded my son begging to reread it.
And for Cena fans, there are even some amusing Easter eggs they’ll enjoy discovering in the elaborate illustrations.
How My Child Reacted to This Book
As my son in preschool is obsessed with anything on wheels, this book proved an easy win. When we first took this home from the library (before eventually purchasing it), we read it for more consecutive days than I can count, and he often jumped up and down during the defeat of Motozilla.
My son knows many phrases of the book by heart, and he relishes detailed discussions about the appearance of each monster truck in the lively illustrations. We continue to reread this almost weekly.
Potential Conversations to Pair with This Book
Every time my son and I read this book, I try to prompt a chat on how we can follow Elbow Grease’s example and use practicing and teamwork in our own lives – from sports, to simple playtime activities.
I also emphasize how Elbow Grease demonstrates that different people are good at different things. He’s not the strongest or fastest… but he can brainstorm a brilliant plan and command others to execute his vision with the gusto of a CEO.
More Children’s Books Like This
‘Three Cheers for Kid McGear’ – A Scrappy Skid Steer Masters Kindness, Teamwork and Problem Solving
‘Glory on Ice’ – A Hockey-Playing Vampire Embraces Practice and Teamwork