Finklehopper Frog Cheers

Finklehopper Frog Cheers

From School Library JournalPreSchool-Grade 1-The protagonist in Finklehopper Frog (Tricycle, 2004) returns in a rhyming story that introduces three themes: overcoming fears, standing up to bullies, and being a good sport. The enthusiastic amphibian comes close to not attending the town picnic because he's afraid the others will make fun of his new hat. However, when Itchy Flea and Yowlereen start to tease him, his rabbit friend, Ruby, stands by him and thwarts the bullies with words instead of fists. Then she considers not entering a race because she is afraid that she can't beat Sue Kangaroo, but Finklehopper gives her a pep talk. Although the rabbit does her best, she comes in second, and the frog tells her how brave she was to try when she knew the competition was tough. Ruby recovers her composure, congratulates the winner, and everyone is satisfied. Richly colored acrylic paintings are filled with humorous details. For example, instead of shooting off a gun to begin the race, a cat sticks its claw into a balloon. Bright-blue skies, green grass and trees, and the general camaraderie of the animals help relate a few pleasant, easy-to-swallow lessons.-Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WICopyright ? Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.In these further adventures of the sweet amphibian, Finklehopper Frog worries that the local bullies might make fun of his favorite hat at the town picnic. Should Finklehopper stay home and avoid the confrontation altogether? Meanwhile, his pal Ruby Rabbit is up against some tough competition in the annual hopping race. Luckily for Finklehopper and Ruby, facing fears and learning the value of good sportsmanship is a lot easier with a friend by your side. Vibrant artwork full of visual jokes.Highlights physical exercise and good sportsmanship.FINKLEHOPPER FROG has sold over 25,000 copies.FINKLEHOPPER FROG was a 2004 CBC Children? Choice and received the Oppenheimer Toy Portfolio Gold Book Award.From the Publisher*Vibrant artwork full of visual jokes.*Highlights physical exercise and good sportsmanship.*FINKLEHOPPER FROG was a 2004 CBC Childrens Choice and received the Oppenheimer Toy Portfolio Gold Book Award.About the AuthorBefore becoming a writer, IRENE LIVINGSTON taught school and raised three talented daughters. She lives in Vancouver, British Columbia.BRIAN LIES has illustrated more than a dozen children's books, including New York Times bestseller Bats at the Beach. He lives in Duxbury, Massachusetts.