Foo, the Flying Frog of Washtub Pond Book

For kids of all sizes (and boasting ability), a funny fable about growing pains, the ups and downs of friendship, and the gift of forgiveness.

In a cozy, tropical place called Washtub Pond, three web-footed creatures pass carefree days playing and dreaming together. Sue-Lin Salamander, Mao-Mao Mudpuppy, and Foo Frog have been best, samesize friends since the day they were born. But like all young creatures, these three grow up — and some really BIG changes in Foo Frog put the trio’s friendship to the test. With warmth, lighthearted wit, and a bit of hot air, Belle Yang has written and painted a laugh-out-loud story in bold, comedic strokes.

Children's Literature

The simple concept of growing up is nicely told in this story when three friends, all born on the same day in the same place, notice they are changing in size as the days pass. Sue-Lin Salamander, Mao-Mao Mudpuppy, and Foo Frog play together each day but as Foo Frog grows bigger and stronger than the other two, his friends notice he is beginning to brag a lot about how he is the biggest animal in the whole world. When Sue-Lyn and Mao-Mao discover an elephant drinking at the pond from under their lily pad one day they cannot wait to tell Foo. When he hears the news, Foo sucks in so much air that a puff of wind lifts him off the ground and carries him off. His superior attitude is finally crushed when he meets up with a great white heron, a huge fish, and a giant sea turtle. Foo finally meets up with the elephant and realizes he is just a very small frog in a very big world. This cute story about growing up and friendship would warm the heart of any child. The illustrations are comical but carry a good message. Reviewer: Joan Elste