Froggy delights youngsters at Palatine Library

Froggy, a rambunctious and good-hearted amphibian, has tried surfing in Hawaii, found misadventures at summer camp, and done his best to overcome a lack of natural gifts on the tee ball diamond and soccer pitch.

But on Sunday, he took on a challenge to which he was well-accustomed: entertaining young readers.

Froggy was the main attraction at the Palatine Public Library for "Froggy Visits the Library," where he met with kids, read them a story and helped them build a craft.

"We wanted the kids to be able to come to the library and get out of the house. It's been cold and everybody has been staying home," said library associate Gale Ree. "The kids loved him. He is such a fun character and a favorite among the kids."

Ree read the books, "Froggy's First Kiss" and "Froggy Gets Dressed," by author Jonathan London as almost 75 children and parents laughed at Froggy's mishaps.

The event ended with children taking pictures with the 6-foot-tall frog and making cutout Froggys and paper clothes.

"It was fun and I think the kids enjoyed it," Angela Campbell of Palatine said as she helped her 3-year-old daughter, Janessa, cut out paper clothes for Froggy.