Frederick

Lionni, L. (1967). Frederick. New York, NY:Alfred A. Knopf.

Everyone can contribute something to make society better. That is the message in the picture book by Leo Lionni. Frederick may not gather food or prepare for winter like the other mice, but when the supplies run low and the group needs a morale boost, Frederick's stories and imagination keep the other mice entertained during the winter season.

Sharing this book with young readers shows them that everyone has a part in a community whether it is a family, class, and or the world. No matter how small, each individual can contribute something. It also teaches tolerance for those that don't follow what others deem normal. The person who may be "inattentive" or "daydreaming" may indeed be absorbing the Earth's beauty in his or her own unique way and just waiting for the right time to share his or her vision with others.