In I Don’t Want to Be a Frog, a young frog complains about being a frog and wishes he could be a different animal instead. His patient father explains why he must be a frog, and an unexpected encounter with a hungry wolf helps the frog appreciate who he truly is. This humorous and engaging story teaches the importance of self-acceptance and appreciating the unique qualities that make each of us special.
Discussion Questions
Before You Read
- Look at the cover of the book. What do you notice about the frog’s expression? How do you think he feels?
- Have you ever wished you were someone or something else? Why?
- Why do you think some people (or animals) don’t always like who they are?
- What are some things that make you special?
- Do you think being different is a good thing? Why or why not?
After Reading
- The frog says he wants to be a cat, a rabbit, a pig, and an owl. Why does he think those animals are better than being a frog?
- How does the frog’s dad help him understand why he can’t be another animal? Have you ever had a conversation like that with a grown up?
- Why does the wolf say he doesn’t eat frogs? How does that make the frog feel about being a frog?
- What does the frog realize about himself after talking to the wolf?
- How does the frog’s perspective about being a frog start to change?
- How does the frog’s dad show patience and support throughout the story?
- At the end of the story, how does the frog feel about being a frog? What changed?
- What lesson do you think the frog learned? How can we use that lesson in our own lives?
Activities
- Draw a picture of an animal you’d choose to be
- List the characteristics you like about that animal
- Circle the characteristics you already have
- The frog wanted to be different, but in the end, he learned to appreciate who he was. Write a short letter to someone who feels like they want to be someone else, convincing them why being themselves is amazing.