Snowman Paul and Kate's Olympic Dream is an action and adventure picture book for children written by Yossi Lapid and illustrated by Joanna Pasek. Snowman Paul and Dan were happily engrossed in a game of chess when Paul noticed Kate skating on the ice nearby. Paul couldn’t help but compliment Kate on her skating, something that made Kate feel grand, and his compliment gave her the courage to ask if he could help her become an Olympic skater. Paul gave it some thought and decided that, yes, if Dan helped, they could train Kate and make her a star. Dan wasn’t all that keen on the idea. He wanted Paul to continue coaching his chess playing skills, but Dan went along, and the two friends began working with Kate. It was a hard job getting her speed and spins and technique up to par, and at times Kate felt as though it were an impossible task, but then something incredible happened and Kate found her inner strength. She was on her way to becoming an Olympian.

Yossi Lapid’s action and adventure picture book for children, Snowman Paul and Kate's Olympic Dream, is perfectly timed with the current Winter Olympics, while kids everywhere are dreaming their own Olympian dreams. Lapid’s story showcases the hard work and dedication that makes those dreams realities, including those moments when everything just seems impossible and pointless. He also covers aspects of sibling or friendly rivalry as Dan decides to put his own desires to be taught chess on hold while helping Paul train Kate. Joanna Pasek’s superb illustrations catch the beauty and grace of Kate’s skating. Her technique of putting two successive images on a panel creates an effect of animation, making it possible for the reader to visualize Kate spinning, leaping and speeding across the ice. Pasek also excels at animating Dan's and Kate’s faces, ranging from Dan’s initial irritation at losing his chess tutor to Kate’s expressions of hopefulness, anger and despair as she struggles to perfect her sport. The concerned and caring look on Dan’s face as he encourages Kate to try one more time is so very eloquent. Snowman Paul and Kate's Olympic Dream teaches kids to work hard for their dreams and to help others reach theirs; both are marvelous lessons indeed. Snowman Paul and Kate's Olympic Dream is most highly recommended.

Snowman Paul and Kate's Olympic Dream is a heartwarming children's book written by Yossi Lapid and illustrated by Joanna Pasek. Kate is a young girl who dreams of skating at the Winter Olympics, and Snowman Paul and her brother, Dan, are determined to help her. With a lot of practice, teamwork and determination, the three embrace their desire to help Kate reach the top. Fast paced and filled with fun, quirky watercolor illustrations that bring to mind classic books like the Frances series, Snowman Paul and Kate's Olympic Dream is perfect for cold winter days and great for this year's current Winter Olympic games. Readers young and old alike will definitely enjoy this fun rhyming story, full of bright colors to draw in extremely young children and simple language that won't overwhelm the skills of a beginner reader.

Lapid is able to really showcase the great gains that come with teamwork and practice, as well as believing in yourself. He does it all without being heavy handed or preachy. Snowman Paul and Kate's Olympic Dream makes for a book that is sure to inspire any young child and the presence of a sentient snowman is sure to delight. Snowman Paul and Kate's Olympic Dream will make for a great bedtime story, and is wonderful for the winter season. A lovely gift for beginner readers and even more so for the young fan of ice skating. In a story full of heart, warmth, and understanding, Lapid manages to craft a piece that is sure to delight young readers.