FROG WENT A-COURTING

The subtitle refers not to a theatrical play, but a simple, amiable retelling of the folk song, divided into six sections. Catalano sets the tale in 17th-century Scotland, casting various animal species in the lead roles. The syntax is manipulated to produce rhymes: “When Frog went a-courting he did ride with pipes and a drummer by his side. So high upon his mount Frog sat, his buckled boots shone black as jet.” Pastel illustrations show the animals in lavish clothing and mannered poses. Welcome tension arrives in the form of a cat, who has been seen in the background; it pounces into the party scene with lethal accuracy, but carries off the bagpipe rather than the player. (Picture book. 4-8)