A Pond Full of Pals (Froggy #1)

This offbeat graphic novel by Walshe (Abby: Curled Up and On a Roll) follows young Froggy, a lovable and clumsy amphibian with a big heart and even bigger feelings, as he experiences moments of loneliness, wonder, frustration, and joy across a series of bravery-inspiring and connection-inciting events. “Today’s the day,” Froggy shouts as he gathers his belongings and makes his way to the stream, where his parents and neighbors see him off on an adventure. Though he’s immediately snatched up by a hungry bird, Froggy manages to escape certain doom and soon finds himself journeying to the bottom of a pond with new friend Fishtopher. As Froggy later makes his way through the forest—depicted as a whimsical land of magic and wonder—he happens upon various other smiling, gently rounded woodland inhabitants across an episodic narrative that balances dry humor (in a letter to his parents, Froggy notes that he’s “too young for my spine to be so angry”) with quiet moments of emotional reflection. Fluid and vibrantly colorful jewel-toned illustrations enhance the plucky, positive spirit of this series-starting adventure that feels like a splash of refreshing water on a hot summer’s day. Ages 7–up. (Aug.)