Mary Ann Grossmann, St. Paul Pioneer Press Literary Critic:
This is a delightful story by a Coon Rapids-based author about a van (like the one his family has) that does so many things its name is “Let’s” as in “Let’s go.” Mega recalls being purchased by his mom and dad when Mom was pregnant and soon Megavan was counted on by the family to be so many things — a protector when Mom goes into labor and has to get to the hospital fast, a lighthouse when they are out in the dark, a warehouse when the kids fill it with sports equipment, and provider of warmth inside on a cold winter day. No wonder Megavan says “I am part of a Megafamily.”
Published last spring, this book will resonate with even the littlest kids, since families spend so much time in their vehicles these days. Lots of us have named our cars/vans, haven’t we? Megavan comes alive through lively and energetic art by Kevin Cannon, who has illustrated numerous children’s books. He was the commemorative artist for the 2021 Minnesota State Fair and the 2022 St. Paul Winter Carnival.
"What a fun, imaginative and endearing look at the typical family van! Mark did a great job bringing to life the family minivan and adding so much character to this trusty vehicle! He incorporated so many parts of daily life and important events that we rely on our vans for and made it SO fun!
The illustrations were very colorful and engaging! My 3rd grader loved it! We loved seeing all the adventures this Megavan got to take and how it took care of it’s family! It even made me stop and think about all of the events and parts of life that our vehicles have traveled through with us! It’s like a time capsule on wheels! We loved the MEGAVAN!"
~ Laura Larson, children’s book author of Wild Mindfulness and Where Do You Go?
“Your book makes my kids laugh, but it makes me cry and feel all the feels. It’s SO good.” ~ Melissa Therrien, The Funny Thing About Parenting podcast
“What a fun, colorful read! The story is creative and great for the whole family! Very relatable as well, as the family vehicle really does see and hear it all!! Highly recommend this book.” ~ TCF, Amazon review
“This book is seriously so sweet and will hold a special place in our evening routing! Mark, you got us laughing and even a little emotional!! Your book is truly something special!” ~ Kayla, Facebook comment
“Colorful and Fun! I gave this to my grandson for his 2nd birthday. He loves cars (and anything on wheels) of all kinds - especially red ones. This book was perfect for him and got his attention right away. As an added bonus it’s from a MN author!!” ~ Laurie, Amazon review
“We love MEGAVAN! Such a cute and heartwarming story! My 9 year old and 6 year old loved the adventures Megavan and his family go on, and my 7 month old loved the vibrant illustrations. I may have shed a few tears thinking of all the happy memories we have had with our trusty minivan too.” ~ Krystal, Amazon review
Reviews of The Megavan!
“The Megavan explores family dynamics for picture book readers through the unusual perspective of a family minivan charged with carrying his passengers through changes and life, and will be appreciated by any child attracted to books about vehicles and family journeys.
The minivan narrator things his name is “Let’s” because references to his activities always involve, “Let’s go.” The minivan’s relationship with the family begins with them acquiring him and moves forward to accommodate their growth. New roles must be adopted, from race car (to the hospital for a birth) to security truck (as the parents bring home their precious cargo).
Think the animated fun of the movie Cars, but with deeper messages about changing needs and purposes as the minivan narrator moves his family around and assumes different roles in their lives, as needed.
Kevin Cannon’s colorful illustrations are action-packed, whimsical, and attractive as Mark Therrien explores the world of a growing family’s vehicle.
Read-aloud adults and elementary-level libraries seeking picture books that hold underlying messages about flexibility, adaptation, and purpose will find The Megavan a fun read that moves through a family’s growth and support systems with an exciting tone and vivid illustration of family connections.
~ Diane Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
"The Megavan is a children’s book, ideal for ages 4-7. Megavan (or “Let’s” as he believes is his name - as in Let’s Go!) is the family’s well loved and dependable minivan. Front and center for many of their adventures, he’s the perfect narrator for a fun, family story.
From new babies to Christmas trees, fireworks and ice cream…the Megavan does it all, loyal as ever for his family. This story was adorable and heartwarming too. After hearing this story your little kids might think differently about your car, SUV, minivan, whatever!"
~ Becky Dean, @bookwormbecks - online book reviewer
“What a great family book filled with events every family can relate to. Vibrant colors and amazing illustrations!” ~ Ryan, Amazon review
“This is actually amazing… It’s a phenomenal book!” ~ TJ Therrien, online content creator
“I loved this so much! Such a great book to keep through the generations & to give as a gift to a growing family. It’s so precious to think of your own family car memories through the years.” ~ Brooke, Amazon review
"This is a great book! A minivan who thinks his name is Let’s (because it’s what everyone says around him, “Let’s go, Let’s drive here,” etc.) and adapts to a whole family. “Let’s” can take on the different personas of each family member and deliver exactly what they need. Not only storage or a roof rack or a cup holder, but gets the job done no matter what’s asked of it.
I love how every member of the family is represented and cared for, even the dog! The story is relatable and very sweet, following the family through big and little life events. Even subtle wit by both the writing and illustrations!
Not everyone grew up with or drives a minivan, but most surely can relate with good memories involving a vehicle and family or friends. I remember our family’s road trip in the early 90’s to Milwaukee to see the Twins play the Brewers, and how the subsequent rainout led us right back to our silver Chrysler minivan. Baseball wasn’t in the cards that night but the van was there for us.
The story is just the right length for 4-7 (or older!) and the illustrations by Kevin Cannon seem to jump off the page. So adorably engaging and colorful, it would catch and keep attention for sure. The cover is a brilliant blue that just calls to be picked up.
Sincerely, objectively, I loved this book and have nothing negative to say about it. It’s landed my best review yet and will land here this spring! Let’s go!”
~ Lisa Landucci, Lisa Reviews Lately- online media reviews