Sancho the Sparrow wanted to sing a different song. He wanted to sing along with the symphony at the Mendo Music Festival, but would he be welcome there? Or would he be more welcome at a concert hosted by Rocky the Otter?

Rocky the Otter finds himself in Morro where he meets up with Corky the Cormorant and Sam the Seagull. While reminiscing about their adventure in "The Basking Shark Rescue Team," Rocky comes to realize that he has a role to play in the Great Bird Race, an annual race that Morgan the Merganser described as "the most important athletic event in the history of the world." Rocky, of course, never heard of it. Angelo and his dog, Lovisa, help Rocky and Morgan in his quest to win the race. Alan Marder, who illustrated the Ted L. Nancy "Letters From a Nut" books, again beautifully illustrates this delightful story.

This is a story of friendship and teamwork among an unusual group of animals and children. When Beulah the Basking Shark gets trapped, Rocky the Otter and the rest of the rescue team has to figure out a way to rescue her -- without grown-ups getting suspicious. Along the way we learn a thing or two about birds, animals, and humans. Sometimes, but not always, it is a good idea to listen to your mother. This book is illustrated by Alan Marder, who also illustrated the "Letters From a Nut" series of books by Ted L. Nancy.