Frog and Toad Together

Lobel, Arnold, Frog and Toad Together, HarperCollins,1972, 64 pgs.

Summary: This early chapter book is the tale of Toad and Frog and all of the crazy adventures they go on. We begin by following Toad as he creates a list of things to do and then becomes confused when he loses his list. All the while Frog is by his side trying to help him find the list. We move on to learn about how Frog has planted a lovely garden and Toad would like the same. Toad tries a number of different things to try and get his seeds to go, but nothing seems to be working because he believes the seeds are frightened. Finally Toad falls asleep and while he is sleeping the seeds sprout into a lovely garden. The next two chapters are about will power and being brave and finally we end with Toad having a dream that Frog disappeared. The whole book is full of illustrations of a personified toad and frog. Some of the pictures are full of detail while others are just snapshots of what is happening. What adventures will Frog and Toad get into next!

Evaluation: I found this an enjoyable book to read and a clear classic. The use of animals to tell stories is common in children’s literature and made very believable with the help of illustrations. Dressing Toad and Frog made them appear very human like even though they are clearly a frog and a toad. I feared that this would be a very dated story because of the age of the publication, but I found that it had a very classic appeal.

Annotation: Frog and Toad are best of friends and on an adventure. What will they get into next!

Significance of Book: I think this was a significant story because it tried to teach lessons. Each chapter seemed to have a value that was the point behind what was happening. Even with these lessons, it was still fun to read.

Genre/subject: fiction, friendship

Awards:

National:

• ALA Notable Children's Books: 1973
• Newbery Honor Books: 1973

Why I selected the book: I thought it was important to read an “easy reader” book and have found there to be a large number of books by Arnold Lobel in my library.

Price: $17.89