We have all woken up on the wrong side off the bed and been grumpy in the morning. But have you ever woken up on the wrong side of the lily pad? No? Well that’s because you’re not a frog! But if you are a frog and have the name Grumpy Frog that is probably what happens when things don’t go your way. Grumpy Frog, written and illustrated by Ed Vere, is a delightful picture book that hops and splashes into the world of Young Page Turners with a tale that’s as bright and bouncy as its green-skinned protagonist, and as meaningful as the lessons it leaves rippling behind. It’s a joyful ribbit about friendship and feeling blue.
Let’s meet Grumpy Frog, the frog who is anything but grumpy when things are going his way. He likes things his way – especially when it comes to the colour green. Whether it’s green grass, green leaves, or his personal favourite, green lily pads, Grumpy Frog has a serious soft spot for anything matching his own vivid hue. But try suggesting he play on a blue lily pad or hang out with a pink worm, and you’ll get a firm “No, thank you!” (Or perhaps, “No way!” if he’s feeling extra grumpy). But he is more than just a moody amphibian.
Beneath his cranky exterior lies a frog whose moodiness is as much about insecurity as it is about stubbornness. He is a loveable but complex character that is relatable for young readers, especially those who might sometimes feel a little grumpy themselves.
With his friends going off to play without him, refusing to be friends with pink rabbit (because he’s not green) and then getting swallowed by a crocodile, Grumpy Frog soon realises that he has to change his ways, but can he?
Hey!
I am not grumpy!
– Grumpy Frog / Ed Vere
Overall, Grumpy Frog is an excellent fun story, it was always one of our favourite picture books in our house. It is a fantastic tale dealing with compromise and not getting your own way all the time, tolerance, friendships, reflecting on your actions and saying sorry, loneliness and getting rid of those terrible grumps. A story that just leaps off every page.
The story hops along with a playful rhythm that keeps young readers (and listeners if being read to) engaged from the first page to the last. With simple language it is easy to understand while being clever enough to tickle the funny bones of older kids… and yes, even the adults.
A tale that leaps and bounds along from stubborn grumpiness to deciding what’s really important: sticking to his grumpy guns, or opening his heart to new friends, no matter their colour.
Ed Vere has also illustrated the book himself, and the wonderful illustrations just leap off the page, capturing both the expressive face of the little grumpy hero and the vibrant landscape he inhabits. It’s a visual treat that helps tell the story in a fun and engaging way, with bold and vivid colourful artwork that draws young page turners in. Children will giggle at Frog’s dramatic frowns and exaggerated sulks, and they’ll delight in the array of creatures, each drawn with their own unique flair. When Frog is happy, the world seems bright and lively; when he’s upset, you can almost feel the gloominess take over.
It is an excellent story, one of fun about a grumpy frog. But it has many hidden depths and strengths – it looks at emotions. It gently explores concepts of moodiness, stubbornness, and even jealousy, encouraging children to recognise their own feelings, understand that everyone gets grumpy sometimes, and realise that it’s okay to have preferences – but not to the exclusion of kindness.
When the crocodile arrives on the scene, it provides a turning point in Frog’s life, leaving him with decisions to make. It provides a gentle lesson in empathy.
With its memorable character, engaging illustrations and gentle messages, this book is perfect for young page turners bedtime reading or story times.
Young Page Turners gives this one a resounding ribbit of approval – so hop to it and add Grumpy Frog to your reading pond!
Rating: 5/5
RRP: £6.99 (Paperback) / £3.99 (Kindle)
Available to buy from Amazon here.
PUBLISHER:
PUBLICATION DATE:
ISBN:
PRINT LENGTH:
COVER ART: