FROGGIE WENT A-COURTING

It is difficult not to use the word “exuberant” in describing Priceman’s lavish hand with shape and color, and here she takes the ancient folk song and places it smack dab in the 21st century. Froggie indeed went a-courting, taking a taxi to the Upper West Side of New York City, where Ms. Mouse accepts him. The Times Square marquee announces their engagement, but Auntie Rat is furious: “You cannot marry an amphibian!” she declares. But Frog and Mouse plan their wedding on top of the Statue of Liberty, and all of the usual questions are answered in rollicking form: “Who will make the wedding gown? / Ms. Dragonfly in Chinatown.” Auntie Rat is neatly disposed of, the party continues on the Circle Line cruise ship, and the happy couple honeymoon in Paris. Priceman’s Matisse-inspired cut-paper and gouache images, scattered with her signature roses, brilliantly evoke the city in a paradise of rich color and elegant line. The characters, from the jazzy bees and table-setting fish to the tomcat, who takes care of Aunt Rat, fairly shimmy off the page, dancing to Priceman’s beat. A great read-aloud, a deliciously subversive message. (Picture book/folktale. 4-8)