READY... SET... FROG!

In Mitropoulos’ picture book, a young frog tries to balance helping friends with having time for himself.

Frogathan “Frog” Spots learns there will be an obstacle course at his town’s fair. He makes a small rock mountain in his backyard and prepares to jump it, saying, “Ready...set....” Then his friend Mole interrupts by yelling, “FROG!” Startled, Frog knocks the rock pile down. Mole wants him to help get an apple from the top of a tree. Later, Giraffe interrupts to ask for help putting on a hat. After that, he’s called to assist his friend Kitten. Later, Frog doesn’t want to compete in the obstacle course because he hasn’t trained enough. His mother wisely points out that he practiced when he jumped and climbed while helping his pals; she also notes that it’s “ok to say no sometimes” to others’ requests. Over the course of this picture book, Mitropoulos creates a charming story that promotes friendship and recommends being kind to others as well as oneself. In addition, Mitropoulos offers a portrayal of the outcome of the obstacle course event that provides another valuable lesson. Throughout, Watson’s cartoon illustrations are bright and detailed, and their vivid color enhances the overall story.

A delightful work with a wise message about self-care.