Frog and Ball

PreS-Gr 2–This fresh new animal caper for beginning readers opens with a curious frog checking out a book of magic from the library. The unimaginable happens for Frog as soon as he sits down on a bench and opens the pages of the elusive book. He discovers a flattened ball that comes to life, wreaking havoc as the amphibian seeks refuge in the library, pursued by the ball. A librarian’s worst nightmare becomes a playful romp as books and carts go flying. Frog must find a way to make the magic cease. Anthropomorphized characters are at the center of this engaging, entertaining early reader. The comic format allows the action to play out visually, complementing the limited text. Caple’s artwork has a soft, animated quality that provides a comforting touch. Repetitive phrases assist with pacing, and the narrative is also well suited for reading aloud.