Wally was the world's greatest piano-playing wombat—until he realized there was an even more talented piano-playing wombat in town! This funny picture book's bright colors and imaginative musical scenes teach children to have self-confidence when faced with competition. When Wally, the world's greatest piano-playing wombat, hears Wylie play, he becomes envious. Wally tries toe-tapping and ball-twirling as he plays piano, but every time Wally thinks he's one-upping the competition, he discovers Wylie can do all the same tricks.
Although Wally is discouraged at first, he soon realizes that competing with Wylie inspires them both to play better. And finding a friend to share what you love? That's the best win of all. Both affirming and motivating, Wally's story will resonate with young readers as they learn how to deal with competition and to do what makes them happy—even when they're not the very best.
Ratha Tep is a frequent contributor to theNew York Timesand has reported from Paris, Milan, London, Zurich, and Dublin. She is now looking to create new worlds of her own, in which animal characters navigate their foibles and frailties with humor and spirit;Wally the World's Greatest Piano-Playing Wombatis her debut picture book. She lives in Dublin, Ireland.
Camilla Pintonato is the author-illustrator ofFull Moonand the illustrator for the Farm Animal series,ChickenologyandPigology. She lives in Venice, Italy.
"Tep’s encouraging message about doing what you love despite not being the greatest of all time will spur children to explore life’s joys just for the pleasure it brings....This rollicking fable will resonate with aficionados, dilettantes, and prodigies everywhere."
Kirkus Reviews?
"What a delightful picture book. Competition, collaboration, wombats! The illust
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