Frosty Is a Stupid Name

Linda Ludke is a children’s librarian at the London Public Library.

Jenny builds a snowman and invites him along on her imaginary
adventures. Together they fly to the Unicorn Planet and dine on
jelly-bean soup with the royal family. In the middle of her fantasy,
Jenny wonders if her friend is having any fun. She considers that
perhaps Bartholomew can see only what is in front of him, so she makes
him a peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich, dresses him up in a fashion
show, and reads him picture books.

Troy Wilson’s writing is infused with wit and compassion. Jenny knows
that her snowman will soon melt, but “she doesn’t tell him that.
There’s no point in giving him nightmares.” The care and attention
devoted to a pretend friend will resonate with children.

Dean Griffiths’s expressive watercolour illustrations also capture
Jenny’s spunky character. Bundled up in layers of winter clothes, the
little girl gives Bartholomew a tour of her trailer-park neighbourhood
and holds her own during a little brother’s surprise snowball ambush.
This is a fun celebration of friendship and imagination. Highly
recommended.