Jimmy and the Bridge

Author: Kenneth Saunders Illustrator: Clive Luscombe

Purchase this book (AbeBooks)

From the inside front flap: "This story about Jimmy is true. There is a bridge across the Auckland Harbour, and there is a horse named Jimmy. However, just as the grown-ups do in their books, we must say that 'any similarity between persons mentioned in this book and persons living or dead is purely coincidental." Ask Mother or Father what that big word means! I'm sure you will love Mr. Luscombe's illustrations. Doesn't Jimmy look proud? When you cross the bridge, see if you can see the pylon - it is by the North Shore approach road."

National Library of NZ Entry

During a recent visit to the National Library, I finally held this long-coveted rarity in my hands. Kenneth Saunders wrote only two children’s books, Wanganui Adventure and this one, and until very recently, the library’s copy was the sole survivor in all of New Zealand. (Delighted to report: I’ve since tracked down my own second-hand copy!) If you ever spot one, buy it without hesitation and treasure it forever.

Sized like a classic A4 picture book, it blends crisp black-and-white sketches with glowing full-colour plates. Two examples are shown below:

The story centres on the 1950s construction of the Auckland Harbour Bridge. When machinery vibrations threaten to collapse a pylon’s foundations, old-fashioned horsepower steps in: Jimmy the draught horse calmly hauls the digger. He becomes an instant celebrity, even marching in the grand opening parade. Listen to the archived 1959 radio broadcast, at the 8:30 mark, the commentator proudly announces “Jimmy the Horse” to the cheering crowd.

Perfect for children under eight. Not quite a living book, yet utterly charming for its retro artwork and vivid slice of engineering history. Highly recommended for rarity, nostalgia, and the sheer joy of discovery.

Purchase this book (AbeBooks)

Or you may find it at Book Express

I also have books for sale