While the other field mice work to gather grain and nuts for winter, Frederick sits on a sunny rock by himself. “I gather sun rays for the cold dark winter days,” he tells them. Another day he gathers “colors,” and then “words.” And when the food runs out, it is Frederick, the dreamer and poet, whose endless store of supplies warms the hearts of his fellow mice, and feeds their spirits during the darkest winter days. Frederick’s story will warm readers as well in this Caldecott Honor winning fable.

""A splendid achievement.""—School Library Journal (Starred Review)

“In Frederick, a mouse who is a poet from the tip of his nose to the end of his tail demonstrates that a seemingly purposeless life is indeed far from that—and that we need not live by bread alone!”—Eric Carle, author of The Very Hungry Caterpillar

“When dreary winter comes, it is Frederick the poet-mouse who warms his friends and cheers them with his words.” —Wilson Library Bulletin.