Ohno and the Great Boxcar Derby
Small Racers. Big Dreams. Even Bigger Friendships!
Start your engines-Yonder Creek's biggest race is almost here!
The Great Boxcar Derby is coming to town, and Ohno and his friends are building their own gravity-powered racers for the winding course down Derby Hill!
Everyone has a different idea of what makes the perfect boxcar. Pal builds his sturdy enough to survive almost anything. Moxie creates a tiny purple speedster. Figure measures every detail. And Ready? His outrageous racer has flames, horns, and even wings!
Ohno takes his time with his green Number 7. He measures, sands, paints, and checks every wheel because he wants to do his very best. But when he sees just how big Derby Hill is, his familiar words slip out:
"Oh no..."
On race day, Ohno meets NoBody, a friendly little newt with a bright yellow Number 9 boxcar. They're both new to the Derby-and both a little nervous. Soon the flag drops, the wheels rattle, and the race is on!
To Ohno's surprise, his careful work pays off. He pulls into the lead, and the finish line is getting closer. Then he hears a terrible clunk behind him: NoBody has lost a wheel!
Ohno must choose between the trophy he has dreamed of winning and helping a new friend who needs him.
What will Ohno do?
A Heartwarming Story Filled With Laughter and Friendship
Packed with colorful homemade racers, playful misunderstandings, exciting turns, and lovable animal friends, Ohno and the Great Boxcar Derby brings a big childhood question to life:
What matters more-being first or being there for someone?
Young readers will discover that it's okay to want to win, okay to feel disappointed, and wonderful to show kindness when it counts.
This delightful children's picture book celebrates friendship, courage, perseverance, empathy, teamwork, and good sportsmanship without losing its sense of fun.
A Thoughtful Gift for Children Ages 3-5
Looking for a special children's book for a birthday, Christmas, holiday celebration, preschool graduation, or just-because surprise?
Ohno and the Great Boxcar Derby is a wonderful gift for young children who love:
- Race cars, colorful vehicles, and building things
- Funny animal characters and exciting adventures
- Stories about friendship, kindness, and helping others
- Cheerful illustrations and entertaining read-aloud moments
Parents and grandparents will appreciate the positive message, while teachers and caregivers can use the story to encourage conversations about winning, losing, compassion, and making thoughtful choices.
Perfect for bedtime stories, preschool classrooms, family reading time, and building a young child's first home library.
Join Ohno, Pal, Ready, Figure, Moxie, and their newest friend, NoBody, for an unforgettable Yonder Creek adventure!
Sometimes the best finish is helping someone else get there too.
Written by Cheryl A. McKenzie, author of the Yonder Creek Adventures.
