
Hello, friends! Our book today is Peter Easter Frog, written by Erin Dealey and illustrated by G. Brian Karas, a delightfully odd twist on the traditional Easter mascot.
Beginning with a variation of the classic “Peter Cottontail” rhyme, readers are introduced to Peter Easter Frog, a dapper little amphibian on a mission of spreading Easter cheer. As he introduces himself and distributes eggs to various animal friends – a turtle, a cow, a sheepdog, and a chipmunk – they too are swept up in Peter’s zest for spring celebration, and decide to help. That is, until, they come face to face with the real Easter Bunny, who has some thoughts on imitators…
A sweet and hilarious holiday tale. Adorable Peter Easter Frog’s enthusiasm for Easter fun is as contagious for the reader as it seems to be for his pals, and Dealey’s clever dialogue and creative revisions of “Peter Cottontail” make for a fun read-aloud experience. The shift between dialogue and refrain can occasionally be difficult to spot on first reading, and knowing the melody of the original song is also very helpful, but neither are critical issues. Karas’s scribbly mixed-media illustrations are colorful and endearing, and include a few surprise visual choices that are simply inspired comedically (especially during the meeting with the Easter Bunny). The resolution is both pleasingly logical and heartwarming, the length is perfect for a storytime, and JJ and I both had a blast. If you’re looking for an entertaining and unique nondenominational Easter book, this may be the one for you. We recommend it, and it’s Baby Bookworm approved!
(Note: A copy of this book was provided to The Baby Bookworm by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.)