The Frogs Wore Red Suspenders

Prelutsky, Jack. (2002). The Frogs Wore Red Suspenders. P. Mathers. New York: Scholastic, Inc.

Literary Genre: Poetry (Picture Book) 

Jack Prelutsky’s language is rhythmic and playful in these 28 poems for young readers. Many of the poems will carry readers around the world from the mountains of South Dakota to the waters of Monterey Bay, from the sycamore tree of Indianapolis to a flock of penguins in the Gulf of Mexico. Other poems share verses about animals, such as the ten brown bears with big bow ties, the furry furry squirrel, a little brown toad, and one old owl. Mathers' simple, bright watercolor illustrations are engaging and are sure to encourage readers to laugh aloud while reading Prelutsky’s humorous words.

Jack Prelutsky is one of my favorite Children’s Poets. One reason being that he exposes younger readers to rich language and new vocabulary, with words such as “frolicking”, “serenade”, “gaily” and “ominous”. Prelutsky is also a master of rhyme; it gives his poem a rhythm that almost reads like a song. I particularly liked the animal poems in this collection and how Prelutsky and Mathers came together to have the illustrations show another feature of the animal than the text describes as if inviting the reader to go and learn more about these amazing creatures. This is without a doubt quality poetry that engages readers and shines a positive light on a genre that often intimidates (even scares) readers.