Author(s): Dawn Mcmillan

NZ Picture Books

I’m out in front, moving with ease.

(With my new secret weapon — cabbage and peas!)

Red Pants Boy (RPB) really, really wants to win a running race. But try as hemight, his bum is slowing him down. What can he do?

Find something to move his bum along, of course! Maybe a kite, or a rocket blast, or a big engine? Nah, he figures he needs some bum-strengthening exercises — some squats, kicks, steps and lunges.

And while he’s working out, a whole lot of other folk join him. After some training he’s off — on a cross-country race near home.

Think he’s set up to win? There’s a twist to this tale, involving his wee dog friend crossing the line ahead of him by the tip of an ear …