On an island in the Rainbow Sea three frogs are fighting. Constantly and every day they bicker and quarrel. The neverending contention in the neighborhood gets on a fat toad's nerves. But then comes a great flood and forces all to come closer together.

Auf einer Insel im Regenbogensee streiten sich drei Frösche. Ständig und jeden Tag zanken und zetern sie. Einer dicken Kröte geht der ewige Streit in der Nachbarschaft auf die Nerven. Doch dann kommt eine große Flut und zwingt alle näher zusammenzurücken.

By: Lionni, Leo

Format: Paperback, 32 pages; 5.5 in x 7 in

Editorial Review

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Leo Lionni, one of my favorite children’s authors, ceases to disappoint in Das Gehört mir! I love his illustrative style, which is rough yet charming. The translation is by Fredrik Vahle, who is also a talented children’s author.

The story features three frogs, Milton, Rupert and Lydia that children can completely relate to. They play in the lake, on land and even in the air, but they all seek possession of the lake or land, so they argue all day long. One day a toad comes to their side of the island and tells them that because of their constant bickering, there is no peace on the island. Nothing changes after the toad disappears until it begins to rain. The rain and thunder become so great that they need to rely on each other to weather out the storm. I absolutely adore the clever ending!

There is so much to this simple book. Besides Lionni’s illustrations, his stories are full of depth. The ending is typical for a children’s book, but it’s how the frogs learn the lesson that makes this an impressive book to read. The vocabulary is also more scientific describing the rise and fall of tides as well as rainy and warm days.

Das Gehört Mir! contains the entire package: attractive illustrations, strong sentence structure, classic moral, and a witty plot!

Age recommendation: 3-6 years old

Fluency recommendation: Intermediate

Review by: Rebecca Bluemel

Item id: B760326