Froggie Went A-Courtin'

by Iza Trapani

Book Overview

"The course of true love never did run smooth."("A Midsummer Night's Dream" -- William Shakespeare) Stand aside, Mr. Darcy. Keep walking, Rhett Butler. There's a new romantic hero in town. And, though... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• ISBN: 043961385X
• ISBN13: 9780439613859
• Release Date: January 2004
• Publisher: Scholastic Inc
• Weight: 0.23 lbs.

Customer Reviews

great spin on a classic folk song

I am a music teacher, and I sing this story to my younger students, along with other Iza Trapani books. They love it! The lyrics are different from the original folk song, they are suitable for children, and the illustrations are wonderful.

A NEW SLANT ON AN OLD FAVORITE.

As a child, many a many a year ago, this was one of the first folk song I learned. I must admit when I read this one to the kids in class, I at first had some gualms. For a start, it did break tradition, and did not go along with the old, old song I had learned well over fifty years ago. Secondly, at first reading I felt that the primary lesson of the book was that to each his own and stick with your own kind, etc. After giving the book a reread, I changed my mind. I feel it is just a cute story about a frog who want to be in love and wants a wife. The lesson that you had better find someone compatable to marry is a valid lesson and one I certainly not fuss about. The illustrations are well executed and actually quite good and match the story line, which is also quite good, quite well. All in all, I have to give this one five stars. I do have to agree with a previous reviewer who pointed out that this is NOT the old, original version of this song and the buyer needs to be aware of that. Overall, recommend highly.

LOVED IT, BUT . . .

the lyrics are not the ones you might be expecting, and may not "match" lyrics you have on a CD or elsewhere. In this modernized version of the classic Scottish tune, froggie carries "roses & chocolates" by his side rather than a sword & pistol. He doesn't marry Miss Mousy -- rather, he marries a fellow frog only AFTER he has asked all of the other animals in his environs to marry him, and they reject him for various reasons (he likes a wet home, whereas miss birdy lives in a tree; he eats bugs when other animals prefer nuts -- how would such a couple resolve their differences? Is this a subtle criticism on miscengenation? The "stick to your own kind" message in West Side Story?) The illustrations are full-page, beautifully-colored, and first-rate, and the rhymes are very clever; they're just different from those I learned as a child. I would definitely recommend the book -- just want you to know what to expect. I particularly like the fact that the author included the music notation at the end of the book, for a play-along/sing-along.

Based on the traditional, merry song of the same name

Froggie Went A-courtin' is a thoroughly delightful and highly recommended children's picture book by Iza Trapani and based on the traditional, merry song of the same name. Warm and jubilant color illustrations by Trapani bring to life this simple and enjoyable tale about a frog searching for someone to be his wife, until a lady frog comes to him. The final page presents a simple, sheet music rendition of the popular ditty for budding musicians.

MOVE OVER RHETT BUTLER, STEP ASIDE ROMEO

Move over Rhett Butler, step aside Romeo, there's a new heartthrob out and about - Froggie, Iza Trapani's adorable lovesick frog is on the prowl. As the Bard put it, the course of true love never runs smooth - surely apt in Froggie's case. Nonetheless, he has gumption and, as nother said, hope springs eternal! Trapani sets her search for the perfect mate to song, sure to appeal to young ones, ages 2-7. Her endearing and mirthful illustrations make this a romance story to remember. Remember, you may have to kiss a frog to find a prince but you just have to read this book for loads of enjoyment. - Gail Cooke