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Frederick Fly-Catcher
“A fun adventure that was a hit with my nine-year-old."
What happens when Frederick, a champion fly-catcher, is confronted with a human? After all, humans are dangerous! And worse, this human is carrying a thing of troublesome, powerful magic. What if Frederick can’t get it to stop?
This fast-paced chapter book will entice young readers to keep turning pages to find out what happens next. Connecting with Frederick’s frog’s-eye-view reminds children to treat all creatures with respect and to be open to friendships with new or different people. Parents can use the story events as jumping-off points to talk with children about problem-solving and teamwork strategies as well as simply being kind.
“The best thing I could do was to relax and enjoy the ride, so that’s exactly what I did.”
What happens when Frederick, a champion fly-catcher, is confronted with a human? After all, humans are dangerous! And worse, this human is carrying a thing of troublesome, powerful magic. What if Frederick can’t get it to stop?
This fast-paced chapter book will entice young readers to keep turning pages to find out what happens next. Connecting with Frederick’s frog’s-eye-view reminds children to treat all creatures with respect and to be open to friendships with new or different people. Parents can use the story events as jumping-off points to talk with children about problem-solving and teamwork strategies as well as simply being kind.
“The best thing I could do was to relax and enjoy the ride, so that’s exactly what I did.”
- GenresMiddle Grade
74 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2020
About the author
Helen C. Johannes
7 books264 followersAuthor Helen C. Johannes lives in the Midwest with her husband and grown children. Growing up, she read fairy tales, Tolkien, The Scarlet Pimpernel, Agatha Christie, Shakespeare, and Ayn Rand, an unusual mix that undoubtedly explains why the themes, characters, and locales in her writing play out in tales of love and adventure. A member of Romance Writers of America, she credits the friends she has made and the critiques she’s received from her chapter members for encouraging her to achieve her dream of publication. When not working on her next writing project, she teaches English, reads all kinds of fiction, enjoys walks, and travels as often as possible.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
November 6, 2020
If you're looking for a whimsical fantasy to give that special child for the holiday-this book is for you!
In disclosure, I am a friend of the author, Helen C Johannes. (This is her first children's book but she's an award-winning author of fantasy romances for adults.) And I received a complimentary review copy. But this is my honest review.
First of all, I loved that Frederick is such a REAL frog! So many little details about a frog's life and world are interwoven into this intriguing story. And this creates a great contrast for the moment that magic enters Frederick's life!
A human tears into the swamp chased by more humans. AND EVERYONE KNOWS THAT HUMANS ARE TROUBLE!~
Before Frederick can blink his big eyes, he's carried away into the human world--a castle even!
Of course, there is an evil sorcerer. Doesn't every castle have one? '-)
I'm not going to give away the plot. What fun would that leave for you and the child you give this to or read this to?
It's available in ebook and print.
My final comment: Not every frog becomes a prince but Frederick is a prince among frogs! See if you and that favorite child don't agree!
In disclosure, I am a friend of the author, Helen C Johannes. (This is her first children's book but she's an award-winning author of fantasy romances for adults.) And I received a complimentary review copy. But this is my honest review.
First of all, I loved that Frederick is such a REAL frog! So many little details about a frog's life and world are interwoven into this intriguing story. And this creates a great contrast for the moment that magic enters Frederick's life!
A human tears into the swamp chased by more humans. AND EVERYONE KNOWS THAT HUMANS ARE TROUBLE!~
Before Frederick can blink his big eyes, he's carried away into the human world--a castle even!
Of course, there is an evil sorcerer. Doesn't every castle have one? '-)
I'm not going to give away the plot. What fun would that leave for you and the child you give this to or read this to?
It's available in ebook and print.
My final comment: Not every frog becomes a prince but Frederick is a prince among frogs! See if you and that favorite child don't agree!
November 19, 2020
Life is pretty good for Frederick the frog. He’s known as a champion fly-catcher and each day is calm in the pond. He’s good at avoiding predators like the hawk and the fox while being around his friends and family. But when he hears horses, he dives into the pond. He blinks in astonishment at a pair of blue eyes staring back at him. Danger! It’s a human! The queen has warned him about humans and knows nothing good can come of it. Or can it? He accidentally swallows a human ‘thing’ and suddenly strange things start happening. He’s forced to leave the pond and he’s frightened. It’s only when he befriends Grace does he discover what an exciting place the world is and how important it is to have friends you can depend on, no matter if they’re different. Will he make it back to the pond or will he keep exploring with his friend, Grace?
Frederick Fly-Catcher is a delightful story I read in one sitting. Children of all ages will love this one for its adventure and for the animals that talk. Frederick is an appealing main character and children will connect with him right away. There’s plenty of lessons to be learned here but it’s told in a creative way. The plot moves at a fast pace with humorous dialogue to keep the reader engaged. The writing style reminds me of the Frog and Toad series of long ago. It’s a quick read and something I can see children reading over and over again. If you’re in the mood for a feel-good story you won’t be able to put down, pick up Frederick Fly-Catcher today. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Frederick Fly-Catcher is a delightful story I read in one sitting. Children of all ages will love this one for its adventure and for the animals that talk. Frederick is an appealing main character and children will connect with him right away. There’s plenty of lessons to be learned here but it’s told in a creative way. The plot moves at a fast pace with humorous dialogue to keep the reader engaged. The writing style reminds me of the Frog and Toad series of long ago. It’s a quick read and something I can see children reading over and over again. If you’re in the mood for a feel-good story you won’t be able to put down, pick up Frederick Fly-Catcher today. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
January 13, 2022
Most delightful and imaginative book I have ever read. Distinctive writing style. Kudos to the author; and please, don't ever stop writing!
May 27, 2020
Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, including small, green ones.
This was the first time I ever remember reading about a character who accidentally swallowed a magic ring. Small details like that one were what made Frederick’s adventures stand out to me. While they followed many of the rules about what should happen in a fantasy story, the ones they purposefully bent in order to surprise or delight the audience were what made this such a fun read. The author clearly knew this genre well, and it showed.
I would have liked to see more attention paid to the world building in this story, especially when it came to the characters and their backstories. There were some fascinating things going on with the other creatures Frederick met while he was on his quest to get the magic ring out of his throat and back to wherever it was supposed to go. The connections between everyone were briefly touched upon, but there was so much going on that it sure would have been helpful if those explanations had been a bit longer and more detailed.
The magic in this universe was delightfully unpredictable. At first I wondered what the rules governing it were, but I quickly realized that it wasn’t meant to figured out ahead of time. Anything could happen each time Frederick burped, coughed, or otherwise jostled it as it was lodged in his throat. The best thing I could do was to relax and enjoy the ride, so that’s exactly what I did.
Frederick Fly-Catcher should be read by anyone who is looking for a lighthearted adventure.
This was the first time I ever remember reading about a character who accidentally swallowed a magic ring. Small details like that one were what made Frederick’s adventures stand out to me. While they followed many of the rules about what should happen in a fantasy story, the ones they purposefully bent in order to surprise or delight the audience were what made this such a fun read. The author clearly knew this genre well, and it showed.
I would have liked to see more attention paid to the world building in this story, especially when it came to the characters and their backstories. There were some fascinating things going on with the other creatures Frederick met while he was on his quest to get the magic ring out of his throat and back to wherever it was supposed to go. The connections between everyone were briefly touched upon, but there was so much going on that it sure would have been helpful if those explanations had been a bit longer and more detailed.
The magic in this universe was delightfully unpredictable. At first I wondered what the rules governing it were, but I quickly realized that it wasn’t meant to figured out ahead of time. Anything could happen each time Frederick burped, coughed, or otherwise jostled it as it was lodged in his throat. The best thing I could do was to relax and enjoy the ride, so that’s exactly what I did.
Frederick Fly-Catcher should be read by anyone who is looking for a lighthearted adventure.
December 24, 2020
I loved the story of Frederick Fly-Catcher. I purchased multiple books for my family to enjoy. Children will delight in Frederick's character and the world as he sees it. I was drawn into the story and the other family and friends he meets along the way. Enjoyable chapter read and some good messages too.
October 3, 2022
Frederick is just a regular ol' frog, although he has a quick tongue and never misses a snack. This gets him into a bit of trouble when he reaches for a flying object and discovers that it's a human thing. The thing gets stuck in his throat and turns out to be a magic ring that brings danger to Frederick and everyone around him. Frederick goes on a quest to rid himself of the troublesome human thing and ends up in the middle of a battle to save the human kingdom from an evil sorcerer.
This is a lighthearted fairy tale full of vivid description and clever twists. It read long, though, so perhaps it could have done with a bit less description and a bit more action, and I'd love to see it illustrated. Overall, though, it's an enchanting tale for a Sunday afternoon and a great read for kids starting to explore chapter books.
This is a lighthearted fairy tale full of vivid description and clever twists. It read long, though, so perhaps it could have done with a bit less description and a bit more action, and I'd love to see it illustrated. Overall, though, it's an enchanting tale for a Sunday afternoon and a great read for kids starting to explore chapter books.
May 15, 2021
This was a cute fantasy with an evil wizard, lots of frogs, a cute mouse, a prince (no, not the frog) and a sorceress. I wasn’t sure I was going to like it at first, but it definitely appealed to a youngster. It starts off with the frogs doing what frogs do—eating bugs. Not my cup of tea (especially since I was eating breakfast at the time), but kids will love it. And the frogs seem so “human” with heroes, bullies, wishes, fears, and more. My biggest question is, how can the humans and animals speak with one another? I understand that this is a fantasy with magic at work, but there should be at least some explanation as to how they can understand each other. I would have liked to have seen a little more world building and explanation of things, but overall, a fun story.
What I liked: I liked the story. Once I got into it, it was a very good story. All about good vs. evil (good does win) and that heroes can come in all sizes and shapes. I also loved the way Frederick solved the problem in the end. Very innovative. And it worked so Yay!
What I didn’t like: as said above, I had a problem with the whole frog/human interaction thing going on.
Recommendation: this is a cute story with a happy ending that will appeal to children (and some adults!). It’s about acceptance no matter what you look like, about heroes coming in all sizes and shapes, and about friendship and connection. I definitely recommend it.
Disclaimer: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
What I liked: I liked the story. Once I got into it, it was a very good story. All about good vs. evil (good does win) and that heroes can come in all sizes and shapes. I also loved the way Frederick solved the problem in the end. Very innovative. And it worked so Yay!
What I didn’t like: as said above, I had a problem with the whole frog/human interaction thing going on.
Recommendation: this is a cute story with a happy ending that will appeal to children (and some adults!). It’s about acceptance no matter what you look like, about heroes coming in all sizes and shapes, and about friendship and connection. I definitely recommend it.
Disclaimer: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 28, 2022
A cute fairy tale type story about a young frog who's really good at fly-catching. The action starts right away, and doesn't let up throughout this tale. There's a magic ring, an evil sorcerer, a boy in trouble, a mouse who may be more than she seems, and of course, our brave hero, Frederick. With the help of his friends, will Frederick be able to save the day? Read and find out! I enjoyed this story, it's a fun, quick read for kids moving into chapter books to those comfortable with chapter books but wanting something short. I wouldn't have minded the story being a little more fleshed out, but it does a good job telling the story as it is. Will keep the reader interested for sure!
July 30, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. This book is cute for around a eight year old and up. This book has frogs, a wizard, magic, and a boy. If you are not interested in magic with book is not for you. The story was really fun to read! This is a chapter book. I give this book four stars. It is only on kindle. I like having an actual book, so cut one star for that. You can buy on Amazon for $.99. I do recommend this book. Really fun story.
July 30, 2023
Frederick the Frog takes middle-grade readers on a delightful adventure filled with a cast of bright and entertaining characters. When he accidentally swallows something that belongs to a human, a voyage beyond the pond and outside of his comfort zone introduces him to new and unexpected friends who are quite different from himself. This fast-paced tale will hold children’s attention and show how working together is helpful when solving problems. An evil wizard, magical wishes, and a twist at the end of this fantasy are sure to be a hit with middle-grade readers.
February 20, 2024
A heartwarming, entertaining, and unpredictable story of a brave frog who enlists the help of a mouse to save his pond and help a young human who lives in a castle. Perfectly delightful for young readers!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews