The Fast Lane (Pip Harry, illus Katrin Dreiling, Larrikin)

The Fast Lane by Pip Harry (August & Jones, Because of You) is a lively and funny story about Daisy, a fast-swimming and competitive pig who struggles to share the fast lane at the local pool with Frank, an easy-going, slow-swimming frog. Their clashing approaches to swimming set the stage for a humorous and realistic story about patience, perspective and fair play. When an unexpected moment disrupts Daisy’s rigid routine, she begins to realise that not every interruption is done intentionally or to frustrate her, and that people move at different speeds for different reasons. The book gently reminds readers aged 3 and up that, while it is admirable to be competitive and aim for results, it is also important to relax a little and play. Meanwhile, Frank is a reassuring example showing that being yourself is always the best course of action. Katrin Dreiling’s memorable illustrations complement the story beautifully. Daisy, in particular, pops off the page with her vibrant pink goggles, which express her personality. With its cute, endearing characters, The Fast Lane would work well in classrooms, particularly during the lead-up to school sporting events, to encourage competitive kids to strive in a healthy way.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Bohdi Byles is a queer, Indigenous freelance reviewer with a background in writing, library work, publishing and bookselling. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

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