There are many outstanding books available for preschool aged children. The purpose of this paper is to discuss and review the basic information, story line, illustrations, book categorization, adult role, and overall considerations regarding one such suitable book.
The title of the book being reviewed is Jump, Frog, Jump. This book was written by Robert Kalan and illustrated by Byron Barton. The book was first published in 1989. .
The story line of this book is very age appropriate. The stated message of the story is the circle of life or food chain. The unstated or implied message is being kind to animals by not capturing them. The theme may not directly enhance the children's self image, but the way the book is written will. The book lends itself to predictability and repetition which builds pre-reading skills in children. Furthermore, the book is sensitive and does not use stereotypes. This is a quality story that is sure to catch children's interest and involve them in the story.
The illustrations in the book are unique and add to the story line. The pictures add to children's understanding of the story and overall enjoyment. The words are featured on the same page as the pictures that go along with them. The pictures which are very cartoon-like are very age appropriate.
This book would be categorized as predictable and repetitious. The most suitable age group for this book would be 2 ½ to 4, although up to age five would also enjoy. Within this age category, children are beginning to learn about different kinds of animals. Predictable books hold the attention of younger children. Repetition builds pre-reading skills. Children up to the age of five would like this story but only for one reading, and then may find it boring.
Adult involvement of this story is very important to the story line. There are many activities one could do to get the children involved. For one, have the children verbally predict.
