Summary: “Every year when Moonlight Pond freezes over, a talent contest takes place deep in the woods. Ducks dance, mice perform… But there is one animal that never competes. Toad watches the talent show from behind his rock, careful to keep himself hidden. Because Toad doesn’t have a special talent–or so he thinks! When Toad is finally discovered, he slips on the icy pond and realises he does have an incredible talent…ice-skating! This hilarious, heart-warming, story shows the reader that you never know what you can do unless you try. ” (Taken from Goodreads) Review: Every year the woodland animals host a winter talent show on the frozen pond, but Toad is hiding because he doesn’t have any talents and doesn’t want to be embarrassed. But when Toad’s discovered he slips on the ice and everyone realizes that he is talented – he can ice skate! Personal Reaction: I liked that this story really showed how important it is for kids to try something new, even if they don’t think they’ll be good at it! It seems as though a lot of children I see at the library won’t even try if there is a possibility of failure! But, how else will you learn? As the quote goes, “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss it you will land among the stars.” —Les Brown Title: Toad Has Talent Author: Richard Smythe Illustrator: Richard Smythe Publisher: Lincoln Children’s Books Publication Date: September 7, 2017 This is a new idea I’m trying on my blog this year that was inspired by @donalynbooks and @heisereads – to provide a brief review of a picture book every day of 2018. You’ll get a brief summary of the story, a review of the content, illustrations and theme, my personal reaction to the book and all the pertinent publication information! Enjoy!