While the other field mice work to gather grain and nuts for winter, Frederick sits on a sunny rock by himself. I gather sun rays for the cold dark winter days, he tells them. Another day he gathers colors and then words. And when the food runs out, it is Frederick, the dreamer and poet, whose endless store of supplies warms the hearts of his fellow mice, and feeds their spirits during the darkest winter days.

Rating: 5 *****

A story about individuality and how everyone can make a contribution in their own way.

In all kinds of weather, this downtrodden duck hauls in the sheep, tends the hens, and does the housework as well. How goes the work? the farmer repeatedly asks. Quack, the duck constantly replies–until all the barnyard animals convene to help the exhausted servant exact revenge and oust the lazy lout.

Rating: *****

This book shows how hard work pays off in the end and is noticed by others.

Look out! There’s a sleepy, creepy, deeper-than-you’d-think mud puddle on the preschool playground, and it has swallowed up a pizza van, a fire engine . . . even a tow truck! But don’t worry, this group of clever preschoolers knows just how to rescue them!

Rating: *****

This book is perfect for the preschool crowd. It includes an icky yicky mud muddle, a bunch of noisy vehicles and preschoolers at play.

On their first visit to a playground, two little chickens are afraid to play until a beaver helps them go down the slide.

Rating: *****

A lot of children are afraid of trying new things. This book shows how friendship and trust in others can help overcome those fears.

What’s cooking in the old white cabin? Pumpkin Soup. The best you ever tasted! Made by the Cat who slices up the pumpkin. Made by the Squirrel who stirs in the water. Made by the Duck who scoops up the salt, and tips in just enough. But one day the Duck wants to stir. Then there is trouble, a horrible squabble, and the Duck waddles away.In this funny, observant, and highly original story, three animal companions discover the ups and downs of friendship and sharing, and what really makes the Pumpkin Soup taste so good.

Rating: *****

A great book to talk about sharing, job roles and even responsibilities and friendships.

The Enormous Potato

A farmer plants an eye–a potato eye. It grows and grows into such an enormous potato that when harvest time comes, the farmer can’t pull it out of the ground. He calls for help, first to his wife, then to their daughter, then to the dog and the cat. But it takes all their strength–plus the efforts of one tiny mouse–to finally free the potato from the ground.

Rating: ****

A cute story that discusses community and teamwork. Everyone helps with the potato and everyone gets to share. Your preschooler will love the silly context and learn about helping.