Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #9014 in Books
• Published on: 2004-03-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 32 pages

Synopsis
Frederick, the poet mouse, stores up something special for the long cold winter.

Customer Reviews

The single most important book of my childhood
I and my sister grew up with Frederick as one of the most sacred books in our childhood canon. Recently, while shuffling through boxes of ancient heirlooms, I came across the simple, unassuming cover of Frederick (in 1977 the cover showed only the back of Frederick in the lower right corner, gazing into the distance, and no title), and immediately a serene peace overcame me. I couldn't believe I had forgotten about this book. I sat down and read it again, and from a distance of twenty years it still resonated with me. This book brought calm and joy into my heart as a child, and did so again as I read it today. I can't think of any better recommendation for a book than that.

In terms of content, the story of Frederick is simple. In a community narrowly focused on efficiency, one mouse stands apart and concerns himself with art. Frederick notes the wonder of the world he lives in, and takes the time to assimilate it. While his cohorts may grumble at this behavior, when the dreariness of winter overtakes them they are grateful for Frederick's words. Frederick's poetry is seen as an essential supply for survival.

The illustrations are simple and yet extremely expressive -- witness my instant emotional reaction to a cover that was ninety-percent blank space -- and the wording is likewise concise. But the emotional impact of this book is what sets it apart. Out of sixty or seventy books I thumbed through today, I pulled out six that I felt defined my childhood. This book was at the top of the stack.

Fredreick shows us the value of poetry and the arts.
This children's book is about a field mouse named Frederick who discovers he is a poet. All the other field mice are working hard to prepare for winter; but, Frederick seems to daydream all the time. When winter comes we see the value of his daydreaming and the importance of poetry and the arts. The book was a 1968 Caldecott Honor book (i.e., a runner-up to the Medal winner) for best illustrations in a book for children. I recommend the book highly.

Frederick celebrates the value of everyone's gift....
Leo Lionni's simple shapes and bright colors make his stories great for read-alouds. The short text (1 to 2 sentences per double page spread)keeps young listeners' attention as the story flows smoothly along. In Frederick, Lionni's round, gray field mice prepare for winter. Only Frederick does not join the hustle and bustle of work. While the others gather food, Frederick dreams alone, gathering colors and words as a safeguard against the coming gray of winter. Later, he reveals his treasure to his more practical friends, and they realize the value of his poetic vision. The theme that each of us is unique is a favorite with children. Another reassuringly accepting tale from Leo Lionni.