Can I Tell You a Secret?

PreS-Gr 2--Monty, a frog, has an embarrassing secret that he is reluctant to share with anyone but his trusted reader. He is desperately afraid of water and cannot swim. With the support of said reader and confidante, he musters the courage to tell his parents about this humiliating dilemma. Accompanied by his parents, along with the added support of a snorkel, Monty ultimately makes his victorious leap into the pond. The absurdity of a frog petrified of water will surely amuse young readers, particularly the scenes where Monty dodges raindrops with an umbrella and submits a doctor's note to his swimming coach. Children with any kind of phobia will especially relate to this off-beat picture book read-aloud. Weyant's splashy, expressive illustrations complement the text, featuring a beady-eyed, bulbous-headed frog who has the look and appeal of a beloved cartoon character. The overall message should be clear that it is as important to share problems with at least one caring friend as it is to be a good listener and safeguard a friend's secrets. Pair this choice with the creative team's earlier title You Are (Not) Small (Amazon, 2014). VERDICT An enjoyable picture book that is worth repeated readings.--Etta Anton, Yeshiva of Central Queens, NY

The husband-and-wife team behind You Are (Not) Small and That's (Not) Mine introduces a frog hero who endears himself to readers right from the get-go. "Pssst!" says Monty, leaning out from the right-hand side of the opening spread. "Yes, you. Hi. Could you come here for a sec?" The frog's hands are joined anxiously, its webbed feet splayed like goofy flippers. After assuring himself that readers can keep a secret, Monty confesses, "I can't swim. Not even a little bit. And... I'm afraid of the water." Questions and answers lead readers deeper into the frog's dilemma, and Weyant gets additional laughs with vignettes of Monty's avoidance strategies--a fake doctor's note, desperate clinging. "What's that? You think I should tell someone? Like my parents?" This turns out surprisingly well ("We know, sweetie") and offers the beginnings of a solution. Weyant captures expressions with just a few antic lines, a dynamic match for Kang's smart dialogue. Watching Monty confess his fear to his parents might persuade some readers to entrust adults with their own secrets and insecurities. Ages 4-8. Agent: Holly McGhee, Pippin Properties. (May)