Game of Gnomes

PreS-Gr 2—It's hard not to like a gnome. They're small and sprightly. Plus they all get along and they wear cute, pointy red hats. But that's just the problem for Ginger: she doesn't stand out as an individual. No one remembers her name. Ginger wants to be known for her talents, not just for her red hair. So she enters the Winter Gnome Games. In sledding, she decides to stand up (becoming the first gnome snowboarder!) and is disqualified despite posting the fastest time and inspiring all the gnomes watching. So it goes with the figure skating and curling competitions—Ginger shows creativity and athletic ability, but she does not follow the prescribed rules. Before she can become too down over her losses, she must use her special skills to rescue her friend who is clinging to a runaway squirrel. For her daring and skill, Ginger is awarded a special medal for "Best All-Around Gnomework." The story ends with the suggestion of a sequel—a rodeo—and with Ginger's glorious red hair finally released from her gnome cap, just as Ginger's generous spirit, creativity, and athletic gifts have been recognized. The gnomes are charmingly drawn and convey the magic of the gnome existence as well as their very tiny scale.