By: Sydney Spangler
Idyllic, simple, and an appreciation of the everyday — “Frog and Toad: Storybook Treasury” shows us the minute adventures of two friends. The omnibus contains four “Frog and Toad” books where the pair tackle subjects such as changing seasons, losing a button, and eating too many cookies. It is both a charming and delightful read that teaches children (and adults) the meaning of friendship in small everyday acts.
Reading these short stories was a pleasure due to the relatable nature of its titular characters. Frog, who is taller with a green shade, is optimistic, creative, and a go-getter, while Toad, who is shorter and stout with a brown shade, prefers the comfort of his bed. The dynamic relationship between the pair is more than a push-and-pull, it is also full of support and caring.
In one story, Toad is saddened because he doesn’t receive any mail. He waits and waits, yet no letters arrive. Frog asks him, “What is the matter, Toad? You are looking sad.” Toad tells him “No one has ever sent me a letter. Every day my mailbox is empty. That is why waiting for the mail is a sad time for me.” Frog then tells Toad that he must go home. There, he quickly writes “A LETTER FOR TOAD” and sends it off. Frog runs back to Toad’s house and encourages him to wait for a letter, saying he has written a letter for Toad. He tells Toad that he wrote, “Dear Toad, I am glad that you are my best friend. Your best friend, Frog.” The two friends then sit on the front porch to happily wait for the letter to arrive.
The first book in the Frog and Toad series was published in 1970. Since then, the series has been teaching readers of all ages lessons about friendship. Last year, Harper Collins Publishers celebrated the 50th year anniversary of Frog and Toad with an interactive kit for your little one to enjoy. The kit includes storytime activities, a letter template, and a coloring page for your little one to enjoy.