Fred and the Stinky Cheese

E. Jane Philipps is head of the Biology Library at Queen’s University
in Kingston.

Croteau’s fourth children’s book, translated from the original Le
trésor de mon pиre, is a down-to-earth, believable tale about best
friends and schoolyard rivalries. A new kid, Jake, causes problems for
inseparable schoolmates Fred and William. Fred plots revenge, employing
as his secret weapon his father’s favorite imported French cheese,
“the stinkiest of them all.”

Children will appreciate the story’s humorous content and imagery as
well as its understated yet realistic depiction of the main
characters’ feelings. Amusing sketches complement the large-print
text. The author’s use of simple yet colorful language to engage
readers further enhances the book’s appeal and accessibility. Highly
recommended.