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.)

An overly confident bird takes part in the forest's annual winter competition. Owl hasn't trained one bit for the Big Snowdown. She's a born winner…or so she thinks. Hedgehog wins the igloo-building contest, Frog dazzles when it comes time to create a musical arrangement (on icicles!), graceful Mouse makes a perfect snow angel, and Raccoon zips to the finish in the downhill ski race. Each time, first place goes to someone other than Owl--"and rightfully so," repeats the unseen narrator. After all, these animals have been diligently preparing. An illustration of Hedgehog's meticulously outlined diagrams makes it clear he's put in the work, while Owl's haphazard assemblage of blocks demonstrates that she hasn't. And past montages of the other creatures practicing for their events--and often failing in the process--drive the point home. Though the message about the importance of perseverance comes through a bit bluntly, the tale will hold readers' attention. While it's clear from the start that Owl won't succeed, the brisk pacing will keep kids turning the pages to learn the victor of each contest. The illustrations vary in composition, graphic novel--esque panels alternating with full pages of action for the ski race. Hudson creates cozy wintry settings populated by gently anthropomorphized creatures; Owl's expressive eyes and body language make her utterly sympathetic in defeat, despite her initial braggadocio. A snowy celebration of wintertime activities, laced with an earnest, if purposeful, message about the value of hard work.(Picture book. 3-6) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.