The Pros and Cons of Being a Frog

The boy who narrates this picture book, originally published in Australia in 2012, says that his friend Camille loves math so much that “some days she only talks in numbers.” He also knows that when she starts reciting her six times tables, “it’s time for a snack.” Camille knows him well, too—she’s the one who suggested he trade in his cat costume (which attracted unwelcome canine attention) for a frog costume. He wants to make one for Camille, too, but their measuring session grows tense—“Stop wriggling!” the boy shouts—and she walks out. The boy makes a thoughtful list of the relevant facts (“Not everyone loves wearing a frog costume as much as I do”) before finding Camille to apologize. DeGennaro’s softly tinted drawings render the children as bashful figures surrounded by the things they think most about. The boy’s costume-making and Camille’s fondness for math defy gender stereotypes, while Camille’s quirks are typical of children whose intellectual abilities outstrip their social skills. Their mutual recognition of each other’s gifts and habits should be a welcome example for children forging their own friendships. Ages 4–8. (Aug.)