Frog and Toad

Frog or toad?

You have probably encountered a frog or toad if you spend any time out in nature. You may have read a famous children's book, Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel, when you were young or have read it to your own young ones.

But do you know how to tell the difference between a frog and a toad if you see one in the wild?

A toad has a wide body, and short hind legs for low to the ground hopping. It has bumpy dry skin and lives on land.

American toad

A frog has a narrow body and long hind legs for long leaps and swimming.  Frogs have smooth, slimy skin and live near and in water. 

Green frog 

"The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County,” is another famous story - though not a children's story - by Mark Twain. It is a tall tale with a surprise ending about a man who bets on anything and wagers that his frog can out-jump a stranger’s frog. Don't place any bets on toads jumping very far.

From writing letters, to going swimming, telling stories, to finding lost buttons, Frog and Toad are always there for each other—just as best friends should be. The classic Frog and Toad stories by Arnold Lobel have won numerous awards and honors, including a Newbery Honor (Frog and Toad Together), a Caldecott Honor (Frog and Toad Are Friends), ALA Notable Children’s Book, Fanfare Honor List, School Library Journal Best Children’s Book, and Library of Congress Children’s Book. The books are geared for kids who read on their own but still need a little help. 

If you are reading the book to a little one, be sure to point out the differences between the often misidentified frogs and toads.

New York magazine's The Strategist chose Frog and Toad Are Friends as one of the "Best (Nonobvious) Baby Books to Bring to a Shower." As The Strategist stated: "The stories are just so hilarious and entertaining (and moving) that they really hold the imagination of a tiny tot. The illustrations are incredible, too."

The photo at the top is a Fowlers toad photographed at Cape May, NJ.

Frogs, Toads & Turtles: Take Along Guide