Freddy the Not-Teddy is a charming, hard back picture book with interesting perspectives to share with young children. When the reader finishes the book they realise that there has been no adult intervention. Even though there are problems of identity, the children work out where the important issues lie. In a gentle, realistic way, Kristen Schroeder shows that young children often become aware and think outside the square.
Jonah and Freddy have been together for a long time, and no one seems to be quite sure exactly what Freddy is. There are some humorous suggestions, but Jonah just loves him. At school there is excitement because the teacher has announced a “Teddy Bear’s Picnic,” is to be held in the woods.
Jonah tries many disguises for Freddy, but none of them look authentic. Of course, when the big day arrives, the children notice at once that Freddy is not a teddy. It is here that Jonah is rather creative, and avoids a conflict
His kindness and thoughtfulness are passed on to other children which makes fine and satisfying reading. Written to support reading aloud, the story has good-sized font with enlarged words for emphasis.
The illustrations from Hilary Jean Tapper are charming and soft which adds to the text by presenting humour. There is a good degree of detail in the illustrations to keep young children interested. Freddy the Not-Teddy is certainly a book to use for discussions of acceptance and change.
