Finklehopper Frog

Rating:
Summary: psychology of reading
Review: Finklehopper Frog by, Irene Livingston, illustrated by Brian Lies is a wonderfully playful book. The book tells the story of Finklehopper who is a frog who wishes to get in shape. Finklehopper decides he is going to start jogging, but before he can go jogging he need proper attire. Once our frog friend is properly attired he is ready to go jogging. Many things happen on Finklehopper's jog. But you'll have to read the book to find out.

On a more serious note the book is a good book to introduce the bibliotherapy subject of self-esteem, respect, uniqueness and belonging. I would say the book is suitable and developmentally appropriate for grades k- and up (in to adulthood). The reading maybe a little much fro grade levels k-2, though it would make a great read-a-loud. 3 graders on the other hand, I think, could handle most of the challenging words like Yowlereen (name of character), Finklehopper (Name of character), and determined. The book is all rhyming which makes it easy to read because of the flow. This is another reason why it would be great for the younger grades. Rhyming books are fantastic for reading and language development.

The book is 13 pages long, though, the amount of words on each page is limited. And because of the flow of the rhyming once you start reading the book zooms by. It takes about 5-10 minuets to read out loud.

The pictures are great. I found myself being captivated by them. There is so much detail put in to each one. The colors just jump of the page along with all the characters in the book. I see new things every time I read this book. The text just adds to the pictures, the use of onomatopoeia and creative names is wonderful.

Though, this book's characters are all animals, the main message is "There's room for everyone!" Can you get much more diverse than that.

I think this book could be used in many settings, for example, a classroom or class meeting. It would also work great as a one-on-one reader. The message it brings is just so universally positive it's hard not to see how it could be used. Some activities that might work well in a classroom setting to accompany this book are, mind mapping peoples differences and similarity, creating your own extra special jogging suit, and more. This book has so many possibilities.


Rating:
Summary: Finklehopper Frog a "Feel-Good" Treat!
Review: Fish gotta swim, birds gotta fly, and Finklehopper Frog has gotta...jog! Finklehopper is so excited to join the jogging craze, he even buys himself a jazzy jogging suit. But Finklehopper's enthusiasm dwindles when some of the animals say he dresses funny and he doesn't jog right!

Our hero Finklehopper hurtles through this hilarious and heartwarming story of optimism and courage and wins our hearts as he discovers his own way to go (with a little help from his friends, of course).

Irene Livingston's rhyming narrative is fresh, original and respectful of her young audience:

"He hippied and he hoppied
and he sang a sweet ker-chog,
until he started wondering,
'is this the way to jog?'"

Brian Lies' illustrations are vibrant and rich in delightful detail. Readers are drawn into a world where snakes shop for sweatbands and somebody must live in the storm sewer, because there's a mailbox at the door.

This is a picture book that parents will be glad to read "again." It's sure to be a favourite for anyone who has ever wondered if they dare try something new. Don't miss this delicious and encouraging treat.

Rating:
Summary: mom ta 2
Review: I was pleasantly surprised to find such a sweet little lesson wrapped around a delightfully beautiful book. The frog buys a jogging suit that is really "rockin" and goes out to jog. Along the way he gets made fun of not only for his clothing but the way he jogs. In the end he learns that we are all differnt individuals...but special for who we are. My son love the rythem and the pictures. It was an excellent purchase and sure to be a family favorite!

Rating:
Summary: we can't put it down!
Review: My husband bought this book for our 15-month old son and it has quickly become a favorite. He laughs at the silly rhymes and smiles as he points to Finklehopper hoppin' and a boppin' along. Even at this young age, he knows a good book...we read it every night and sometimes he even wants to take it into his crib with him! Are there more books out there by Irene Livingston?!

Rating:
Summary: Finklehopper
Review: This is a very nice story with wonderful pictures. My husband brought this book home for our three year old and I think he chose very well. It has a nice message...............