Trent Jamieson (text) and Brent Wilson (illustrator), Frog, Log and Dave Almost Save the Day, Puffin, March 2025, 168 pp., RRP $18.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781761347061
Frog, Log and Dave Almost Save the Day is the first book in a new humorous and action packed junior graphic novel series.
In this first book, readers are introduced to Frog, Log and Dave who set up a delivery business when it becomes apparent that their rock and roll band isn’t profitable. Their first client is Count Evil von Evil who pays big money for a box to be delivered to Town Hall. But the bumbling friends can’t work out why they keep hearing count down to an explosion coming from the box. What is Evil von Evil’s plan, and can the friends figure out what’s happening and prevent a disaster?
This book has all the mayhem, slapstick humour, ridiculously silly characters and fast paced action that make funny graphic novels so popular with kids. I was impressed to notice some subtle humour too, with clever play on word meanings and music references. Amongst some of the subtle humour is a pencil named Derwent and Evil von Evil’s “banana, egg, bacon and onion on pumpernickel sandwich” abbreviated to BEBOP.
The illustrations are special for being in vibrant, glossy colour. In true cartoon style, they are entertaining and funny with exaggerated facial expressions for the absurd looking anthropomorphised animals and objects. There is also a sense of urgency and action in depictions of the suspenseful scenes.
As a public library Librarian, I am thrilled that there is another madcap, fun graphic novel series to add to our high demand junior graphic novel collections. I recommend Frog, Log and Dave Save the Day for 6–11-year-olds. Having little text and content relevant to older readers, it is an excellent entertaining and leisurely read for reluctant readers.
Reviewed by Barbara Swartz
