The Big Snowdown

A cocky bird realizes the value of hard work in Hudson’s fable-like account of a wintry woodland competition. Accustomed to being at the top of the food chain (as noted by several pennants in her tree house), Owl assumes she’ll sweep the “Big Snowdown.” During events including igloo building, icicle playing, snow angel making, and downhill skiing, however, the avian protagonist repeatedly sees other forest creatures come out on top through their steady and deliberate effort (“and rightfully so,” a refrain concludes)—a contrast with her own untrained showings. Dusky painterly renderings adeptly convey sporting action and Owl’s wide-eyed disappointment. In the competition’s aftermath, the overconfident fowl realizes that “her friends deserved to win,” and the book rushes to a close with scenes of Owl being coached by the others in prep for next year’s competition. It’s a work that emphasizes themes of community support, hard work, and earning one’s place. Ages 4–8. (Aug.)