Freddy and the Blue Jays

Volume XXVI / Issue 12 – November 22 / 2019
Freddy and the Blue Jays

Freddy and the Blue Jays

Author: 
Tina Powell
Illustrated by: 
Jenny Campbell
Winnipeg, MB: Peanut Butter Press, 2019
32 pp. hardcover, $19.95
ISBN: 
9781927735541
Grades: 
Preschool-grade 1
Ages: 
Ages 3-6
Review by: 
Teresa Iaizzo
3
Excerpt: 

At the baseball diamond, Coach Carla had a big surprise. “Today we’re going to have a special practice,” she announced. “We’re going to practice with the Toronto Blue Jays!”

“Yahoo, Yippee! Hip, hip, hooray!” cried Freddy’s team.

Freddy watched in amazement as the Toronto Blue Jays ran onto the field.

Although Freddy was excited about meeting his all-time favourite baseball team, he was also a little confused. “The Toronto Blue Jays are the best team ever. Why do they need to practice?”

Freddy loves baseball, and he especially loves the Toronto Blue Jays, his “all-time favourite baseball team”. The only problem is that he hates to practice because he’s believes he’s so good that he doesn’t need to practice.

One day, Coach Carla has a special surprise for the team – the Toronto Blue Jays are coming to train with them. But as practice begins, Freddy declares, “You go ahead, I’m already a good baseball player.” While everyone is practicing how to swing the bat, run bases, and catch pop flies, Freddy prefers to stand on the sidelines. However, when the two teams face off in a friendly match, Freddy realizes that maybe he should have been a team player and practiced all along.

Written in clear, concise language, Freddy and the Blue Jays is an enjoyable read that teaches children the value of team work and dedication. Accompanied by colourful illustrations that enhance the action of the story, this picture book is perfect for young baseball fans the world over.

Recommended
Reviewer: 

Teresa Iaizzo is a librarian with the Toronto Public Library.