Frederick

While we are busy being productive, Frederick appears to lack purpose. We are sure, and rightfully so, that what we do is important. But what Frederick does doesn’t quite seem as important. Yet, we are all lucky to know a Frederick! But what does Frederick do, anyway?

Find out in this Leo Lionni book, which is quickly becoming a favorite at the moment in our house. Frederick is the story of a mouse whose occupation, although seemingly intangible, is absolutely necessary for his family to survive.

As usual, Lionni employs the textures and patterns of paper and media collage in a muted palette accented only by the occasional color of natural elements such as small flowers, leaves, and even the imagination of mice.

Frederick’s family is working together to prepare for winter. The pages are filled with collaborative scenes of gathered food ascending through tiny bodies on the stacked stones of the future hideout. But Frederick is not working. When asked why he is not, he explains gently that he has a purpose of his own, a plan none the less, and a reason for doing what he does. Patiently, his family accepts his vague answers, but with time they grow to feel some reproach. But as winter arrives and trespasses, as stories of mundane past events and supplies are slowly depleted, it is Frederick that carries them through the last stretch. Just as the earth’s seasons all have a specific purpose, so do us.

This book is a simple way to talk to children about the different, yet equally important roles people have in society. Some individuals collectively provide us the physical world. Others are in tune with the abstract, with the subtleties of nature, and all that its sights and sounds inspire. These individuals feel compelled to share this with others as well, trying to pass an experience that cannot be achieved with the giving of material things. Nourishment comes in different forms indeed. Without downplaying the hard work and product of others, this book is an affirmation that the spiritual needs fulfilled by art forms are also essential to our existence.