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Ready... Set... Frog!
Winner of nine awards and honors, Ready... Set... Frog! is a fun and educational story for children about how to balance helping others with taking care of themselves.
Frog needs to practice if he wants to win the town obstacle race. But every time he tries, he gets interrupted! Frog can't help his friends and still make time to practice... or can he? Join Frog as he navigates the balancing act of prioritizing yourself when others need your attention. With the support of Frog's family and friends, he works through three tricky situations and learns that sometimes, through helping others, you end up helping yourself.
Ready... Set... Frog! will spark conversations about self-care and boundaries among older readers, while young audiences will enjoy the bright and detailed illustrations. All ages love to call out 'FROG!' at key points throughout the story.
Frog needs to practice if he wants to win the town obstacle race. But every time he tries, he gets interrupted! Frog can't help his friends and still make time to practice... or can he? Join Frog as he navigates the balancing act of prioritizing yourself when others need your attention. With the support of Frog's family and friends, he works through three tricky situations and learns that sometimes, through helping others, you end up helping yourself.
Ready... Set... Frog! will spark conversations about self-care and boundaries among older readers, while young audiences will enjoy the bright and detailed illustrations. All ages love to call out 'FROG!' at key points throughout the story.
40 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 14, 2023
5 people are currently reading
568 people want to read
About the author
Katharine Mitropoulos
2 books29 followersKatharine Mitropoulos dreamed of writing children's books when she was young but never found the courage. Her journey as an author began later in life after degrees in psychology, linguistics, and speech-language pathology. While working as a speech-language pathologist in schools, ideas for stories started flooding in. Once she got married and had two children of her own, she found herself crafting bedtime stories and dream prompts. One day, she wrote down one of those stories, and that's when Harmony Lane Adventures was born. In her spare time, Katharine loves to build furniture in her woodshop, eat ice cream with rainbow sprinkles, and run road races all over the state.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 17, 2023
In a Nutshell: A delightful story with practical life lessons and adorable illustrations.
Frog loves games and challenges. When he hears of an obstacle course in an upcoming neighbourhood fair, he decides to practice hard for it. He builds his own obstacles, but just as he is about to practice, a neighbourhood animal asks Frog for his help. This happens multiple times and the whole day goes by with Frog not having practiced obstacles at all. Frog is quite frustrated with his situation, until his mom makes him realise a couple of important things.
Picture books are read either for education or for entertainment, but the best picture books find ways of combining both. This is one such case. Through Frog’s efforts at building up his skills, we see many amusing scenes, with the instances of “Ready…Set….FROG!” being the funniest. And through his actions and his disappointments, we learn, just as Frog does, some essential lessons such the importance of balancing between others’ needs and our own, the art of saying no, and the significance of determination and self-help. Through Frog’s performance in the obstacle course, we also learn the value of doing our best and being satisfied with the results instead of necessarily ranking as #1 in every race. Every single lesson is a valuable one, and the book doesn’t just stop at the ones I have mentioned. Almost every page has something to offer, if parents/guardians can sit with little readers and point these out.
While the story goes by pretty smoothly, it jumps over some necessary details. For instance, I would have liked to know how exactly Frog helped Cat return from across the pond – did they hop together, did he carry her? Also, in the current story, the book goes directly from the discussion scene with his Mum to the obstacle course race a few days later. I would have loved a couple more pages depicting how Frog incorporated his learnings the next day, i.e. how exactly he balanced helping others with completing his own work. These factors lowered my rating.
The story is written in a simple text with mostly small words. Each page has just two-three paragraphs. As such, the content will work well for early readers, aged 4-7 years.
I adore the illustrations. They are so nice and bright, filling the entire page with lovely pastel hues. I even loved the detailing in the background. Every animal is really cute, though not necessarily sketched in the right relative proportions. Most of all, I appreciate the choice of drawing Frog with spectacles. It breaks the cliché that sporty kids have perfect eyesight, or that kids wearing glasses can’t be great at games. The only thing I would change in the illustrations would be the cover art. It spoils a bit of the fun by revealing Frog’s performance in the obstacle race.
All in all, despite the minor areas of improvement, this is a marvellous book providing valuable morals as well as an enjoyable plot. It will work great for bedtime reading as well as classroom discussions.
4.25 stars.
My thanks to author Katharine Mitropoulos and BookSirens for the DRC of “Ready... Set... Frog!” This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The book is available for free to Kindle Unlimited subscribers.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
Frog loves games and challenges. When he hears of an obstacle course in an upcoming neighbourhood fair, he decides to practice hard for it. He builds his own obstacles, but just as he is about to practice, a neighbourhood animal asks Frog for his help. This happens multiple times and the whole day goes by with Frog not having practiced obstacles at all. Frog is quite frustrated with his situation, until his mom makes him realise a couple of important things.
Picture books are read either for education or for entertainment, but the best picture books find ways of combining both. This is one such case. Through Frog’s efforts at building up his skills, we see many amusing scenes, with the instances of “Ready…Set….FROG!” being the funniest. And through his actions and his disappointments, we learn, just as Frog does, some essential lessons such the importance of balancing between others’ needs and our own, the art of saying no, and the significance of determination and self-help. Through Frog’s performance in the obstacle course, we also learn the value of doing our best and being satisfied with the results instead of necessarily ranking as #1 in every race. Every single lesson is a valuable one, and the book doesn’t just stop at the ones I have mentioned. Almost every page has something to offer, if parents/guardians can sit with little readers and point these out.
While the story goes by pretty smoothly, it jumps over some necessary details. For instance, I would have liked to know how exactly Frog helped Cat return from across the pond – did they hop together, did he carry her? Also, in the current story, the book goes directly from the discussion scene with his Mum to the obstacle course race a few days later. I would have loved a couple more pages depicting how Frog incorporated his learnings the next day, i.e. how exactly he balanced helping others with completing his own work. These factors lowered my rating.
The story is written in a simple text with mostly small words. Each page has just two-three paragraphs. As such, the content will work well for early readers, aged 4-7 years.
I adore the illustrations. They are so nice and bright, filling the entire page with lovely pastel hues. I even loved the detailing in the background. Every animal is really cute, though not necessarily sketched in the right relative proportions. Most of all, I appreciate the choice of drawing Frog with spectacles. It breaks the cliché that sporty kids have perfect eyesight, or that kids wearing glasses can’t be great at games. The only thing I would change in the illustrations would be the cover art. It spoils a bit of the fun by revealing Frog’s performance in the obstacle race.
All in all, despite the minor areas of improvement, this is a marvellous book providing valuable morals as well as an enjoyable plot. It will work great for bedtime reading as well as classroom discussions.
4.25 stars.
My thanks to author Katharine Mitropoulos and BookSirens for the DRC of “Ready... Set... Frog!” This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The book is available for free to Kindle Unlimited subscribers.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
February 27, 2024
This book is a heartwarming read about a frog who is too busy helping his friends to focus on the upcoming obstacle course. Despite this, his efforts to support his friends actually get him to second place. I appreciate the lesson of learning to say no sometimes and putting yourself first.
The story is complemented by gorgeous illustrations that I found myself completely immersed in. The bright colors, friendly faces, and variety of fun creatures make this book a pleasure to read. I would highly recommend it!
The story is complemented by gorgeous illustrations that I found myself completely immersed in. The bright colors, friendly faces, and variety of fun creatures make this book a pleasure to read. I would highly recommend it!
September 30, 2023
This book was so fun to read (even as an adult) I healed my inner child a little bit with this one.
The important message this picture book has to offer is one that many adults still haven't learned and struggle their whole life to do so.
Frog is still a very young frog and has lots to learn, but in this particular adventure he learns that it is amazing that he helps his friends when they need his help, but sometimes it is also important to say 'no' and prioritize himself.
Frog also learns that it's okay to be 2nd place and try again next time. Better yet, to use it as motivation to try again next time and work on his skills.
Personally, I don't like the whole "we don't need a winner - we can all just be winners" mentality that I experienced when I was a child. While I don't think we ALWAYS need to play in order to WIN, it didn't help me in the long run. I still see people my age never having developed the ability to lose. (it's such an important skill)
With TV currently re-producing old tv series from my childhood (the 2000-2015) I realized that all of the have the same plot: We have a problem, let's work together, a there is the perfect solution, everyone is happy again - the end.
My personal highlight:
The illustrations are so wholesome. I especially enjoyed the frog family's dinner. They eat like humans with forks and plates but instead of meat its flies with salad or flies with broccoli.🥦
The important message this picture book has to offer is one that many adults still haven't learned and struggle their whole life to do so.
Frog is still a very young frog and has lots to learn, but in this particular adventure he learns that it is amazing that he helps his friends when they need his help, but sometimes it is also important to say 'no' and prioritize himself.
Frog also learns that it's okay to be 2nd place and try again next time. Better yet, to use it as motivation to try again next time and work on his skills.
Personally, I don't like the whole "we don't need a winner - we can all just be winners" mentality that I experienced when I was a child. While I don't think we ALWAYS need to play in order to WIN, it didn't help me in the long run. I still see people my age never having developed the ability to lose. (it's such an important skill)
With TV currently re-producing old tv series from my childhood (the 2000-2015) I realized that all of the have the same plot: We have a problem, let's work together, a there is the perfect solution, everyone is happy again - the end.
My personal highlight:
The illustrations are so wholesome. I especially enjoyed the frog family's dinner. They eat like humans with forks and plates but instead of meat its flies with salad or flies with broccoli.🥦
September 6, 2023
So cute! With a lesson (and reminder!)
I love this absolutely adorable book. The illustrations are so cute. The story has a great message about the importance of not only helping friends but making time for your own needs. Great reminder for grown-ups too!
I love this absolutely adorable book. The illustrations are so cute. The story has a great message about the importance of not only helping friends but making time for your own needs. Great reminder for grown-ups too!
May 27, 2023
“Ready… Set… Frog!” is an adorable children’s storybook following an ambitious little frog, Frogathan Spots, from Harmony Lane. Frogathan Spots, Frog for short, has a vivid imagination and loves playing games to challenge his athletic ability. He especially loves building obstacle courses that test his ability to jump from high distances and balance on unstable items. One morning while enjoying some flies for breakfast Frog’s parents informed him the neighborhood of Harmony Lane would be hosting a fair the following weekend. With only a week to prepare, Frog begins the construction of log ramps and huge rock piles to practice his jumps and balance for the town’s obstacle course at the fair. Yet, each time Frog begins to work on his jumping skills and balance, a neighboring friend yells out, requiring him to stop and rush off to solve a dilemma. Time after time, this keeps happening until Frog becomes frustrated, wanting to quit. Can Frog realize his dream while still providing a helping hand to his friends?
“Ready… Set… Frog!” by Katharine Mitropoulos is an enjoyable children’s story that will have everyone laughing and cheering on Frog as he gains the knowledge and confidence to compete in an obstacle course race. The wording is easy to follow and can be read out loud with children or to themselves with a few challenging words. The author and illustrator expertly portray poor Frog’s frustration and emotions to the readers in both tone and timing as chaotic scenes come to life off the page. The illustrations follow the storyline perfectly, displaying likable characters who are vivid with detail and show emotions of frustration, understanding, and triumph. Teachable moments are abundant in this short but powerful story. A positive attitude and a charitable heart spread kindness throughout the story.
As a grandmother of three little girls, I sat them down to read, “Ready… Set… Frog!” and they loved it. We discussed Frog’s feelings, the kindness he showed his neighbors, and the importance of not giving up when things seem stacked against you. My oldest grandchild liked the story so much, she asked if she could read it aloud to her cousins next time they visit. As a family, we found “Ready… Set… Frog!” an enjoyable children’s book that will become a cherished addition to our family library.
“Ready… Set… Frog!” by Katharine Mitropoulos is an enjoyable children’s story that will have everyone laughing and cheering on Frog as he gains the knowledge and confidence to compete in an obstacle course race. The wording is easy to follow and can be read out loud with children or to themselves with a few challenging words. The author and illustrator expertly portray poor Frog’s frustration and emotions to the readers in both tone and timing as chaotic scenes come to life off the page. The illustrations follow the storyline perfectly, displaying likable characters who are vivid with detail and show emotions of frustration, understanding, and triumph. Teachable moments are abundant in this short but powerful story. A positive attitude and a charitable heart spread kindness throughout the story.
As a grandmother of three little girls, I sat them down to read, “Ready… Set… Frog!” and they loved it. We discussed Frog’s feelings, the kindness he showed his neighbors, and the importance of not giving up when things seem stacked against you. My oldest grandchild liked the story so much, she asked if she could read it aloud to her cousins next time they visit. As a family, we found “Ready… Set… Frog!” an enjoyable children’s book that will become a cherished addition to our family library.
April 5, 2023
As a teacher, I am always looking for books that are relevant to either Social Emotional skills or other core curriculum concepts. This book fit perfectly in what I was teaching this week. Frog's friends keep interrupting his practice for an obstacle course contest he is looking forward to being in. As a kind friend, he helps each one, putting his own needs and wants aside. He is sad the night before the race because he thinks he has not practiced. His family helps him understand that he has been practicing by helping his friends. They also help him realize that it is also ok to say no sometimes and to put one's needs before others. I read this book to my students (Grade 3 - 8-9yrs - 45 of them!) and used it to have them identify instances of figurative language. This book did have personification and hyperbole. They had to really listen for it which made it challenging for them. We also discussed why it is important to put one's needs before others and how to do it in a kind and caring way. Overall, this is a wonderful book and my students liked it as much as I did. They really liked the illustrations as well. Another book to add to your shelf to help kids understand that it is ok to put yourself first sometimes.
October 3, 2023
This adorable children’s book is a cute little story about Frog and his quest to win first place in the neighborhood obstacle course competition. When Frog sets out to practice for the course, however, his friends keep needing his assistance and he can’t get any practicing in. Frog’s mother teaches him that sometimes it’s okay to prioritize your own needs over others’ and the need to find the balance. This lesson hit me even as an adult because it’s so hard to feel like it’s okay to prioritize my own wants and needs over others sometimes. I love the way this very important lesson is embedded into this cute story so I can work on raising my kids with a better idea of the balance needed starting at a young age. I can’t wait to buy this one for my kids and read it with them!
October 4, 2023
Ready... Set... Frog!
-This children's book highlights finding a healthy balance between taking time for yourself & helping others. I love books that teach my children (and myself valuable life lessons.
If you are on the hunt for a book that encourages positive growth and independent choices this is the one for you!
-This children's book highlights finding a healthy balance between taking time for yourself & helping others. I love books that teach my children (and myself valuable life lessons.
If you are on the hunt for a book that encourages positive growth and independent choices this is the one for you!
March 18, 2024
This book is an absolute delight. Aged for 3 - 8 year olds, this book highlights the importance of helping friends, but also about self care. It’s never too early to have a conversation with kids about balance in life! Beautifully illustrated, this would be an excellent one for the home or in the classroom. Certainly recommending!
October 30, 2024
Frog wants to train for the upcoming obstacle course but every time he stops to train. One of his friends needs his help. This was a cute little story that teaches you it’s ok to balance helping others while taking time for yourself. The pictures were really cute and my daughter loved it.
January 30, 2024
Forgathan wants to practice for an obstacle course at the fair! Unfortunately some things get in the way of him practicing, will he still be able to make time for his plan to practice? I liked this book because it teaches that sometimes it’s ok to say no and also that sometimes things don’t go the way you want but it still works out in the end!
September 26, 2023
Great fun story about making time for yourself!
This is such a cute story about how it is nice to help your friends sometimes, but it is also important to find balance and make time for yourself. I don’t think there is a lot of kids books with this message so it was great to see! The illustrations are adorable and my daughter who loves frogs, definitely loved this book!
This is such a cute story about how it is nice to help your friends sometimes, but it is also important to find balance and make time for yourself. I don’t think there is a lot of kids books with this message so it was great to see! The illustrations are adorable and my daughter who loves frogs, definitely loved this book!
September 22, 2023
I was sent a digital copy of this ARC! As someone with no kids myself, but lots of friends having kids, this is the perfect book for teaching kids time management, boundaries, hard work & practice, and taking time to yourself!
I really enjoyed the illustrations and will definitely be getting a copy of this for my friends and their kids :)
I really enjoyed the illustrations and will definitely be getting a copy of this for my friends and their kids :)
October 16, 2023
This was such a cute book, with an even greater message! We absolutely loved this one and the cute illustrations too. Definitely recommend
April 11, 2023
Ready... Set... Frog! by Katharine Mitropoulos
Ready... Set... Frog! is a delightful story that encourages children to overcome obstacles, never give up on dreams, and celebrate their achievements with pride.
This story follows a kind-hearted frog who loves challenges. Frog is excited about the obstacle race contest at the fair, and he wants to win, but whenever he tries to practice, he gets interrupted by his friends, or someone wants his help, and he can't make time for himself.
Join Frog on his adventurous journey to learn that sometimes, it's ok to say no, and if you want to succeed in life, then you have to know how to balance your time, and sometimes, through helping others, you end up helping yourself.
Illustrations are vibrant and colorful pages filled with hopping scenes making this book a fun adventure journey for kids.
Perfect for 2+
This book is available on Amazon.
Ready... Set... Frog! is a delightful story that encourages children to overcome obstacles, never give up on dreams, and celebrate their achievements with pride.
This story follows a kind-hearted frog who loves challenges. Frog is excited about the obstacle race contest at the fair, and he wants to win, but whenever he tries to practice, he gets interrupted by his friends, or someone wants his help, and he can't make time for himself.
Join Frog on his adventurous journey to learn that sometimes, it's ok to say no, and if you want to succeed in life, then you have to know how to balance your time, and sometimes, through helping others, you end up helping yourself.
Illustrations are vibrant and colorful pages filled with hopping scenes making this book a fun adventure journey for kids.
Perfect for 2+
This book is available on Amazon.
July 21, 2023
A very sweet story with great illustrations, both entertaining and educational, which helps readers consider the balance of helping others and taking care of oneself. My 3yo wanted to read it again as soon as we finished!
The illustrations were beautifully done, with full-page art in strong color. The story was well-done and easy to follow, although I felt like some pages needed an intermediary/transition page to move from one part to another. Frog's mom helps him reflect on caring for others (which also helps him toward his own goal!), but we don't really get to see how he uses that lesson.
Overall, it is a sweet story with a good lesson and an important opportunity to discuss service to others with your child. My daughter loved the art, and there were lots of nice details to enable extra engagement, like counting the apples, naming characters, etc. This took us around 10 minutes to read together; words were fairly simple/easy, early-elementary reading level, I'd say.
The illustrations were beautifully done, with full-page art in strong color. The story was well-done and easy to follow, although I felt like some pages needed an intermediary/transition page to move from one part to another. Frog's mom helps him reflect on caring for others (which also helps him toward his own goal!), but we don't really get to see how he uses that lesson.
Overall, it is a sweet story with a good lesson and an important opportunity to discuss service to others with your child. My daughter loved the art, and there were lots of nice details to enable extra engagement, like counting the apples, naming characters, etc. This took us around 10 minutes to read together; words were fairly simple/easy, early-elementary reading level, I'd say.
August 5, 2023
What a fun book! I was so excited that the main character had GLASSES! Right when I noticed my daughter pointed it out and said “Mama like you!” I can’t recall another book I have read to her with this special edition. Thank you for that! Not only are the illustrations done to perfection, they felt so homey and inviting and reminded my daughter of her favorite book series “Shopie Mouse”. The story is sweet and the relationships are even sweeter. A mom that encourages and strengthens her son's own abilities. A friend and neighbor that is always willing to help when needed by using his gifts and talents. But not ONLY that… the mom encouraged and taught about healthy boundaries. What a soft and easy way to show these in a children’s book. I loved it, and so did my daughter!
April 12, 2023
I highly recommend adding this beautiful hardcover to your collection! The illustrations were vibrant and cute and the writing was meaningful and heartfelt.
Adults can take a page or two from the lesson taught in this story. Frogathon Spots, the sweet main character, learns that pleasing others may not always seem beneficial or fulfilling; but in helping others we each learn lessons that shape us as individuals.
My son and I really enjoyed this book and I’ve added it to his nightly bedtime story rotation.
Adults can take a page or two from the lesson taught in this story. Frogathon Spots, the sweet main character, learns that pleasing others may not always seem beneficial or fulfilling; but in helping others we each learn lessons that shape us as individuals.
My son and I really enjoyed this book and I’ve added it to his nightly bedtime story rotation.
July 21, 2023
Absolutely adorable book with great message
I was most drawn to this book by the adorable cover. However, the message inside is just as great as the illustrations. Frog must practice for a local contest, but it seems everyone needs his help. Can frog win the contest even though he hasn't gotten to practice?
It's hard to find a balance between what you need and what others need from you. Sometimes you have to do what is best for you. What a great message to send readers! Definitely recommend for classrooms and libraries!
I was most drawn to this book by the adorable cover. However, the message inside is just as great as the illustrations. Frog must practice for a local contest, but it seems everyone needs his help. Can frog win the contest even though he hasn't gotten to practice?
It's hard to find a balance between what you need and what others need from you. Sometimes you have to do what is best for you. What a great message to send readers! Definitely recommend for classrooms and libraries!
August 5, 2023
"Ready...Set...Frog!" is a delightful story of a young frog that chooses to help his friends and learns how to help himself. It is a story of the joys of service and also of setting personal boundaries to protect your own well-being. Sometimes it is ok, and important, to say "no". Both are powerful lessons for kids and are wonderfully woven throughout the story and beautiful illustrations. This book is well written, well designed, and masterfully created. A great addition to any family or community library!
March 22, 2023
So cute!
I absolutely loved reading this book with my littles!
The story flows nicely, not at all clunky to read aloud. I loved that Frog was practicing in an Unconventional way, that he didn't even realize it. My favorite was how his Mom pointed out that it is okay to say no sometimes, and that she admits she has trouble doing that as well. It's so relatable!
The illustrations are vibrant and fun. Super adorable!
All around a great book for littles!
I absolutely loved reading this book with my littles!
The story flows nicely, not at all clunky to read aloud. I loved that Frog was practicing in an Unconventional way, that he didn't even realize it. My favorite was how his Mom pointed out that it is okay to say no sometimes, and that she admits she has trouble doing that as well. It's so relatable!
The illustrations are vibrant and fun. Super adorable!
All around a great book for littles!
May 9, 2024
Very cute! The illustrations are so fun and bright, they really bring the story to life. Little ones will surely love this. I really liked how Frog was so happy with his second place and wanted to improve for the next year. How it was used to reinforce his mum's words about finding the right balance for others and for yourself.
*I received an advance review e-copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*I received an advance review e-copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 31, 2023
The illustrations are colorful and eye-catching, and Frogathan's story managed to keep my toddler's attention with exciting phrases such as Ready…… Set…..Frog! This will certainly be a favorite with the little ones. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 25, 2023
Ready… Set… FROG! by Katharine Mitropoulos and illustrated by Laura Watson is a fun read. I have been trying to implement story time in my community and I can’t wait to read this as my first pick. The illustrations are absolutely darling. They’re very colorful and playful. Frogathan Spots is a lovable character: kind and helpful with big dreams.
April 27, 2023
A wonderful story of balancing the needs of others, with your own life, and goals.
Beautiful illustrations bring to life the engaging story of friendships in a town of adorable critters.
I hope this become a series for me to share with my grandchildren, and will soon become our new go-to bedtime story when Grammy babysits!
Beautiful illustrations bring to life the engaging story of friendships in a town of adorable critters.
I hope this become a series for me to share with my grandchildren, and will soon become our new go-to bedtime story when Grammy babysits!
May 1, 2023
Cute
Really cute and simple book. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because it felt a bit incomplete. I felt like it was rushed and was missing just a tiny bit more info.
Really cute and simple book. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because it felt a bit incomplete. I felt like it was rushed and was missing just a tiny bit more info.
August 8, 2023
Cute story and great for SEL. As an SLP I like the illustrations on each page so you can talk about more than just the story lines.
Read
May 27, 2023This was a really cute book that kids will love
December 26, 2023
Katherine Mitropoulos' delightful children's book, "Ready...Set...Frog!", is a charming tale that seamlessly weaves together the themes of friendship, community, and self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of Harmony Lane, the story follows the lovable Frogathan Spots, affectionately known as Frog, as he prepares for the neighborhood fair's obstacle course. This heartwarming narrative is not just about overcoming physical challenges but also about the unexpected lessons one learns along the way.
One of the standout features of Mitropoulos' storytelling is the vivid depiction of Frog's enthusiasm for creating challenges. The author skillfully engages young readers by painting a lively picture of Frog's joy in designing obstacle courses and games for his neighbors. This not only sets the stage for the upcoming fair but also introduces children to the idea of creativity and imagination as valuable assets in fostering a vibrant community spirit.
The story takes an endearing turn when Frog, absorbed in his preparations, unwittingly becomes the hero of the tale by selflessly helping his friends. Mitropoulos beautifully captures the essence of friendship and collaboration as Frog assists Mole in retrieving an apple from a tree. This act of kindness becomes a pivotal moment, as Frog's selfless endeavors unknowingly mirror the challenges he is preparing for. The subtle lesson embedded in the narrative is a testament to the author's ability to infuse depth into a seemingly simple children's story.
The character development is commendable, as Frog evolves from a single-minded enthusiast focused on his own preparations to a caring friend who discovers the value of helping others. Mitropoulos skillfully incorporates Frog's self-realization, creating a multi-layered narrative that resonates with both children and adults. The positive message that helping others can be a valuable learning experience is conveyed with subtlety and grace.
The language used in "Ready...Set...Frog!" is both accessible and engaging, making it an ideal choice for young readers. The rhythmic flow of the prose adds a melodic quality to the narrative, making it suitable for read-aloud sessions. Mitropoulos' descriptive language paints a vivid picture of Harmony Lane and its adorable inhabitants, fostering a sense of familiarity and connection for young readers.
"Ready...Set...Frog!" by Katherine Mitropoulos is a stellar addition to any parent's bookshelf. The book not only entertains with its engaging storyline but also imparts valuable lessons about the joys of friendship, community spirit, and the unexpected rewards of helping others. Mitropoulos' skillful storytelling, coupled with the endearing character of Frog, makes this children's book a must-read that will captivate the hearts of both children and their parents.
One of the standout features of Mitropoulos' storytelling is the vivid depiction of Frog's enthusiasm for creating challenges. The author skillfully engages young readers by painting a lively picture of Frog's joy in designing obstacle courses and games for his neighbors. This not only sets the stage for the upcoming fair but also introduces children to the idea of creativity and imagination as valuable assets in fostering a vibrant community spirit.
The story takes an endearing turn when Frog, absorbed in his preparations, unwittingly becomes the hero of the tale by selflessly helping his friends. Mitropoulos beautifully captures the essence of friendship and collaboration as Frog assists Mole in retrieving an apple from a tree. This act of kindness becomes a pivotal moment, as Frog's selfless endeavors unknowingly mirror the challenges he is preparing for. The subtle lesson embedded in the narrative is a testament to the author's ability to infuse depth into a seemingly simple children's story.
The character development is commendable, as Frog evolves from a single-minded enthusiast focused on his own preparations to a caring friend who discovers the value of helping others. Mitropoulos skillfully incorporates Frog's self-realization, creating a multi-layered narrative that resonates with both children and adults. The positive message that helping others can be a valuable learning experience is conveyed with subtlety and grace.
The language used in "Ready...Set...Frog!" is both accessible and engaging, making it an ideal choice for young readers. The rhythmic flow of the prose adds a melodic quality to the narrative, making it suitable for read-aloud sessions. Mitropoulos' descriptive language paints a vivid picture of Harmony Lane and its adorable inhabitants, fostering a sense of familiarity and connection for young readers.
"Ready...Set...Frog!" by Katherine Mitropoulos is a stellar addition to any parent's bookshelf. The book not only entertains with its engaging storyline but also imparts valuable lessons about the joys of friendship, community spirit, and the unexpected rewards of helping others. Mitropoulos' skillful storytelling, coupled with the endearing character of Frog, makes this children's book a must-read that will captivate the hearts of both children and their parents.
July 22, 2023
An adorable and beautifully illustrated children's book that will delight both parents and early readers. The book is full of valuable lessons and bright pictures.
Frog wants to win the town's obstacle race. He is very clever and thinks of ways he can practice and goes on to build obstacles that he hopes to master. Every time he attempts to practice, his friends interrupt him requesting his assistance to do things they cannot do on their own. Frog wants to be a good friend and help his friends but worries that he is not practicing for the race. His mother notices how he is feeling and tells him that it is ok to set boundaries and say "No. " She also pointed out that even though Frog was not practicing for the race using his own constructed obstacles, that he was still practicing.
Ready... Set... Frog! is a beautifully illustrated book. The pictures are bright, cheerful and eye catching. This makes for a lovely book for parents to read to their younger children. The lessons are very good, and the pictures are adorable. Early readers will also enjoy this book as the book has short passages that go perfectly with the illustrations.
The lessons in this book are also very clear and easy to understand - that you can still be a good friend and say "no", that your needs are just as important as your friends, and that if you try your best, you have already won no matter how you perform in a race. I liked the emphasis on Frog's feelings, his determination to reach his goal, and his kindness. I also like the lesson of setting boundaries, and the balancing act between being helpful and putting your needs first. It's a lesson that we all need to learn and keep in mind!
I received a copy of this book from the author Katharine Mitropoulos and BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Frog wants to win the town's obstacle race. He is very clever and thinks of ways he can practice and goes on to build obstacles that he hopes to master. Every time he attempts to practice, his friends interrupt him requesting his assistance to do things they cannot do on their own. Frog wants to be a good friend and help his friends but worries that he is not practicing for the race. His mother notices how he is feeling and tells him that it is ok to set boundaries and say "No. " She also pointed out that even though Frog was not practicing for the race using his own constructed obstacles, that he was still practicing.
Ready... Set... Frog! is a beautifully illustrated book. The pictures are bright, cheerful and eye catching. This makes for a lovely book for parents to read to their younger children. The lessons are very good, and the pictures are adorable. Early readers will also enjoy this book as the book has short passages that go perfectly with the illustrations.
The lessons in this book are also very clear and easy to understand - that you can still be a good friend and say "no", that your needs are just as important as your friends, and that if you try your best, you have already won no matter how you perform in a race. I liked the emphasis on Frog's feelings, his determination to reach his goal, and his kindness. I also like the lesson of setting boundaries, and the balancing act between being helpful and putting your needs first. It's a lesson that we all need to learn and keep in mind!
I received a copy of this book from the author Katharine Mitropoulos and BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
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