William John Hopkins
The Doers
"The Doers" by William John Hopkins is a children's book written in the early 20th century. This charming work follows a young boy named David, who is almost five years old, as he explores the construction site of a new house next to his home. With the constant presence of his cat and his trusty cart, the boy engages with various workmen, learning about the different trades involved in building a house, including digging, masonry, plumbing, and painting. The opening of the book introduces readers to David's playful spirit and curiosity about the world around him. One day, David wanders to a nearby construction site, where he observes men digging a cellar for the house. As he interacts with the workers, he expresses a desire to help and learns about the tools and tasks they perform. The narrative captures David's innocence and excitement, using simple language to describe his adventures, offering a whimsical portrayal of childhood exploration and the value of labor.