This book is a treasure trove of open roads, wind in your hair, and all of the thingummies and doodads that comprise the most beautiful classic sports cars. Page after page of vintage roadsters come alive with crisp illustrations alongside a joyful rhyming story about fettlers—those particular mechanics who know the difference between a doohickey and a whatsit, a widget and a thingamabob. The fettler’s welcome all manner of old automobiles into their shop, and they fettle about until the rustbuckets become purring classics. The simple rhyming story is aimed at the not-yet-old-enough-to-drive set, but those who’ve been around the block a few times in a peppy little motor car will appreciate the array of vintage vehicles on display at every turn of the page.
The illustrator Thomas D. Jensen is a Danish/Swedish comic book artist currently living in Sweden. He specializes in the French-Belgian comic book style ligne claire or clear line, having been raised on comic books such as The Adventures of Tintin, Blake & Mortimer, and Yoko Tsuno. Find Thomas on Instagram @thomasdjensen.
Reviews
This is just a hoot to read! With over 25 different European vehicles, it is a compendium of the classic imported car market. . . . Compliments to Ford and Jenson for creating such a witty and delightful book.
— John Twist, University Motors
The Fettler’s Shop is a love letter to classic cars and to the skilled people who work to keep them on the road. Adam B. Ford’s charming storytelling is brought to life by the delightful automotive art of Thomas D. Jensen to create a book that is great fun for kids of all ages.
– Mark J. McCourt, Hemmings Motor News