PRO CONNECT
With degrees from Weber State University, University of Utah, and Utah State University, Debbie taught in the Davis School District in Utah for 30 years. Now retired from teaching, she writes children's stories. Some of her stories were inspired by experiences with her children, grandchildren, and students. She has published several books and received many awards. She continues to write children's picture books while branching out into chapter books for young adults.
Besides writing, she likes to travel, go on long walks, ride her bike, and go to the gym.
“This story of trying different ideas and not giving up highlights teamwork, with four children ready to work together (and not argue) as they pursue their goal.”
– Kirkus Reviews
Four children work to speed up their sled through trial and error in Hepner’s picture book.
Acee, Mia, Riley, and Tobias are ready for the annual toboggan race, but they want to give their sled a speedy edge. After brainstorming ideas, they decide to try bacon grease; it works, but it also attracts all the neighborhood dogs—so it’s “Back to the thinking porch.” The kids try crayon wax next, first coloring the bottom of the sled, then melting the wax to coat the bottom. After a test run, they decide the latter is the solution, and they apply a fresh coat for the race. Soon they’re racing down the hill—and across the finish line. This story of trying different ideas and not giving up highlights teamwork, with four children ready to work together (and not argue) as they pursue their goal. Hepner uses short sentences and only a few challenging words (tobogganamong them), making this accessible for emergent readers. Moore’s bright cartoon illustrations feature a diverse friend group with various skin tones. Some of their poses are repetitively reused on multiple pages, however; Acee’s position racing the sled, for example, is identical in three illustrations. The rainbow track left by the crayon wax, however, is inspired.
A fun, well-illustrated story about working together to make rainbows in the snow.
Pub Date: Aug. 12, 2023
ISBN: 979-8987292426
Page count: 44pp
Publisher: Self
Review Posted Online: July 31, 2023
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 15, 2023
RACEE ACEE AND THE TOBOGGAN RACE: Global Book Award, 2023
RACEE ACEE AND THE TOBOGGAN RACE: Reader's Favorite 5 Star Award, 2023
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