Frederick is a book that should be on every preschooler’s shelf. A Caldecott award winner, it’s the charming tale of a mouse with a talent for words, whose contribution to his community is through his stories. It celebrates imagination and being different.
The one criticism I’ve heard about the book is that Frederick is too lazy to be a good role model. He quietly gathers details for his stories while the other mice work on preparing food and shelter. The point as I see it, however, is that while food and shelter may take care of our physical needs, we also have an emotional need for stories/art/literature. This is a vital part of our civilization and well-being. (Perhaps those who cut the NEA budget should read this, too.) I think the book would also make a great graduation or birthday present for an older, even college-age, child who wants a career in literature or the arts.
Although I’d read a few of author Leo Lionni’s other books, such as Swimmy, Frederick came to my attention because he’s featured in the U. S. Postal Service’s current stamp series, “Favorite Children’s Book Animals” (along with Curious George, Fox in Socks, Maisy, Olivia, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Wilbur, and a Wild Thing). I’ve picked up a few sheets for birthday invitations, thank-yous, letters to grandparents, and the like.