PJ the Dump Truck

PJ the Dump Truck: Big Feelings, Bright Adventures, and Even Bigger Friendships

Written by Mary Komomua, LCSW, PJ the Dump Truck was inspired by two important parts of my life: my work as a trauma-informed social worker and my experience raising a young son who loves trucks. Throughout my career in emergency departments, hospitals, behavioral health settings, and survivor advocacy, I have witnessed how many children and adults struggle to identify, express, and move through difficult emotions. I wanted to create a story that helps children learn these skills early in life.

PJ is a cheerful island dump truck whose truck bed carries more than rocks and sand-it carries feelings. Sometimes PJ feels excited, joyful, and proud. Other times he feels worried, frustrated, lonely, or overwhelmed. With the help of his truck friends-AJ, Ziggy, Gia, and Logan-PJ learns that all feelings are welcome, that we can experience more than one emotion at a time, and that asking for support is a sign of strength.

Set against vibrant island landscapes inspired by Hawaiʻi, PJ the Dump Truck encourages meaningful conversations between children and caregivers about emotional awareness, resilience, self-care, and healthy expression. PJ reminds young readers that feelings are meant to be noticed, talked about, and gently released-helping them feel seen, understood, and ready to shine bright.