Best friends Max and Marla are determined sledders in this engaging winter-time picture-book from author/artist Alexandra Boiger. Although they encounter numerous challenges, from rusty sled blades to colds, they persevere, turning obstacles into victories like true Olympic champions.

I have enjoyed Alexandra Boiger's artwork in Marilyn Singer's Tallulah books, about a young would-be ballerina, so I was excited to pick up Max and Marla, her debut as both author and illustrator. The narrative here is engaging enough, spinning a tale of friendship and passion for sledding, but it is the artwork that really spoke to me. I enjoy winter scenes, so it stands to reason that I'd like the visuals here, but Boiger's watercolor artwork just has a certain insouciant charm to it, that I find very appealing. Marla, Max's owl friend, is particularly cute! Recommended to anyone looking for fun winter-time stories, or picture-books addressing the themes of friendship and perseverance. ( )