Review: Oliver the Toad

In December, I introduced you to a refreshing, new author named Dawn Denton.  I enjoyed the uniqueness of her first story Ruby and Rocket.  The second book Oliver the Toad is even better than the first.  Both in the Guest in the Garden Series, these books introduce children to gardens – what they grow and those who visit. 

Oliver the Toad is responsible for protecting the garden from bad bugs.  Although he starts off the evening doing a great job, he gets sidetracked and forgets to finish the task at hand.  This leads to bugs eating many plants. 

As a huge bonus, this book is available in a downloadable audio form for free. Each book contains a coupon code. Simply visit the website listed in the back of the book to enter the code to listen to the author read the book. You can listen through the website or download to your computer, a CD, or a portable music device. A special musical chime is rung to let the child know it is time to turn the page. Books on tape (which is what they used to be called) are great for quiet time or traveling in the car.

Momma C’s Thoughts:
Sweet Pea and I read this book together.  Because of the lengthy sentences and pages, we paused the book for the night right at the climax.  Sweet Pea was excited to read the remander of the book to see what would happen to the garden and Oliver. 
As a gardener myself, I appreciate how realistic the illustrations are.  The vegetables and bugs looked exactly like what I have seen in my garden.  Oliver is an adorable toad.  I was very pleased with all of the pictures. 

The point of this book is so applicable to early elementary aged children.  Responsibility and finishing jobs.  Use this book to start a discussion or as an example. 

While we enjoyed Ruby and Rockets, Oliver the Toad is one that will be read over and over. 

Thank you to Dawn Denton for allowing me to review this story!