The Sled Race (Wally Mammoth #1)

Employing the snappy timing of a top-tier animated short, Tabor (Ursula Upside Down) and Webb, making his traditionally published book debut, launch a series starring a woolly mammoth called Wally. A sledding race is about to begin, but Wally, sporting a bright pink ski sweater, loves sledding purely for enjoyment. When two competitive pals, Wolf and Otto, wax poetic about winning, Wally, arms open, says, “I hope you BOTH win!” Fate intervenes when Wolf and Otto collide and form a massive, growing snowball on the course, giving Wally the lead. (“Hey, Wally,” Wolf calls out from within the snowball, “If you win, can I hold the trophy?” Otto adds, “If you win, can I have a cupcake?”) Loose, sketchlike digital illustrations with icy-hued fill-ins create a playful, unintimidating atmosphere that welcomes readers into the escalating slapstick action, while speech bubbles remain accessible without sacrificing a single comic beat. Everyone wins in the end—including readers, who will enjoy the light balance of funny friendship story and exhilarating sled ride, plus a promise of further adventures. Ages 4–8. (Sept.)