Grandpa Toad's Secrets - Hardcover

PreSchool-Grade 1?Cleverly plotted and expressively written, this book is bound to become a story-hour favorite. While on a walk in the forest, Grandpa Toad warns Little Toad: "Our world is full of hungry enemies," and proceeds to tell his grandson some survival skills. The first rule?to be brave?helps them escape from a snake. The second?to be smart?keeps them safe from a snapping turtle. But Grandpa hasn't yet divulged the third secret when the most threatening danger appears, an enormous monster who lifts up Grandpa and places him between two slices of bread. In a humorous and satisfying conclusion, Little Toad tricks the monster and saves his grandfather. Repetitive phrases, perfect for inviting participation, add to the appeal. Kasza's animal characters are great, both comical and realistic in a way that allows youngsters just enough emotional distance from the "scary parts." As usual, her watercolors are set on lots of white space, another plus for group sharing. And the monster himself is so big that he's sideways on the page, an interesting design element. Another winner from an author/illustrator who really knows what children like.?Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Kasza's (The Pig's Picnic; The Wolf's Chicken Stew) characteristic cleverness and droll art enliven her fetching tale of a young toad who proves an especially adept pupil. Out for "a walk in the forest," Grandpa Toad shares with Little Toad his secrets for survival. When a snake threatens to devour the elder toad, he puffs himself up in order to appear too large to swallow. Next an oversize snapping turtle pegs Grandpa as a tasty snack, but the savvy senior replies, "Wouldn't you rather have a feast?" and sends his would-be devourer scurrying after the snake. But when an enormous monster appears-so large that readers must turn the book sideways to see him in his full-spread ferocity-it is Little Toad who, quickly applying his grandfather's advice about bravery and intelligence, saves his relative from being gobbled up as a "toad sandwich." Though the underlying message here is less profound than in some of Kasza's previous books, the story serves as a witty case study in resourcefulness. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.