Frog in Winter

Velthuijs's winning amphibian here confronts the perplexities of winter--a bone-numbing season if one lacks the protective feathers of Duck, or the fat of Pig, or the nice warm fur of Hare. Half-frozen and miserable, Frog can only look on while the others enjoy skating or a snowball fight; but when his friends take matters in hand and ensure that he has a blazing fire, hot soup, a cozy new sweater and abundant companionship, he comes to appreciate many of the season's pleasures. Neatly framed oils in a gently droll style admirably suit Velthuijs's low-key plot and characters. His simple, sure lines deftly depict the animals' changing emotions, from Frog's bewilderment, dismay, despair and--eventually--contentment, to his friends' solicitous concern. The story's message is likewise understated but genuine: by pulling together, friends can transform even the bleakest scenario, and the effort proves worthwhile all around. Ages 3-up. (Mar.)