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THE OLD SLEIGH

Jerome Pumphrey Jarrett Pumphrey

On a cold winter's night of deep snow, an old sleigh delivers needful things - firewood for warmth, joyous rides through the snow, presents for loved ones.
But as the town takes these gifts, the sleigh is given less care and lies broken and abandoned - until another snowbound night and a new family give the old sleigh new life and purpose. This enchanting picture book from acclaimed creators Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey celebrates family, friendship, and simple acts of giving.

Jerome Pumphrey is an author/illustrator and a graphic designer at The Walt Disney Company. He studied graphic design at the Art Institute of Austin.

Jarrett Pumphrey is an author/illustrator and the former co-founder and CEO of a tech startup. He has served as creative director for multiple technology companies.
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Published 2025-10-04 by Norton Young Readers

Comments

Snowy scenes and diluted colors take viewers right into winter to feel the chill of fingers in mittens and the warmth of a cup of cocoa, and once more, the Pumphrey brothers utilize spare text against bustling scenes to tell a visual story, with some spreads containing no words at all. The minimal words allow kids to feel the interconnectivity of the town as they recognize the change happening there, along with the things that stay the same - warmth, merriment, and the value of community. The result is a reminder of the wholesome side of the Christmas spirit that focuses on gathering over gift-giving.

Through spare text and colorful, cheery illustrations, the Pumphreys... draw readers into this cozy world of neighbors caring for one another.

A thematically rich story for all its seeming simplicity, excellent for shared reading and reflection around the December holidays or any other time.

The narrative beguiles... The community's buildings stand out against the snow in reds, greens, and mustards, and the simple and rhythmic text charms. A thought-provoking tale of growth and change.