In this illustrated early chapter book, Max helps Jordan train for their school's end-of-year obstacle course. But with a classroom rival and rain on race day in the mix, Jordan realizes finishing will be its own reward. With Max as his coach, Jordan is a winner already.
Just how intense are the Massey Obstacle Olympics?
When Max tells Jordan that their school's end-of-year carnival will include the Massey Obstacle Olympics, Jordan is super excited. He's been jogging with his grandmother and dreaming of the chance to be in a real race. Even though chatter at school does make the obstacle course sound intimidating, and the new kid, Ivan, is trying to scare him off, Jordan knows that, with Max as his coach, he's ready for anything.
When it rains on the day of the carnival, Max starts panicking. Then Ivan shows up wearing fancy new cleats and Jordan begins to wonder if he's up for the challenge. But during the race, Jordan finds out that help can come from unlikely places-and new friendships can blossom when you least expect them.
This is the third book from Suzanne Sutherland featuring Jordan and Max, following Jordan and Max: Showtime and Jordan and Max, Field Trip!
The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.
Key Selling Points
• Shows that exercise is for everyone, emphasizes collaboration even in competition and encourages empathy, as Jordan realizes his "rival", Ivan, is actually just a shy new kid.
• The school's Massey Obstacle Olympics (MOO) is a take on the grueling Tough Mudder endurance event, complete with unexpected rain and mud for Jordan to contend with.
• The third early chapter book featuring Jordan and Max, this book continues the gentle exploration of gender performance and identity.
• Suzanne Sutherland's debut novel was an ALA Rainbow Book List selection; like Jordan, she got into running as a "decidedly unathletic" kid and loves it to this day.
• There are 22 black-and-white illustrations throughout.
Suzanne Sutherland is an author and editor of books for young people who is passionate about inclusive and engaging storytelling. Her debut novel, When We Were Good, was selected for ALA's Rainbow Book List, and Under the Dusty Moon was a Toronto Public Library Top Ten Recommended Reads for Teens. Suzanne lives in Toronto.
Michelle Simpson has illustrated many children's books, including The Dancing Trees, I Can See You and the Jordan and Max series. She has also worked as a concept artist for kids' cartoons, such as Ollie! The Boy Who Became What He Ate (season two) and Tee and Mo (season one). Michelle holds a BAA in illustration from Sheridan College, and she lives in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
"Children will enjoy reading Jordan and Max, Race Day and understand the message that you need to look beyond the outside to see the real person underneath. Recommended."
