Every child wants to be accepted and liked by their peers. Since no one is exactly alike (thank goodness!) differences in appearances, talents, and skills will in variably surface. If these are obvious, a child can easily be singled out, made fun of, bullied and rejected. This delightful story addresses the problem of children not accepting those who are not like them.
Freddy is starting a new school and like any new student is nervous he might not fit in. Being an octopus is very different than the other sea students. Everyone shuns him until the teacher talks to the children. She points out she and Mr. Seahorse Janitor are very different yet the class likes them. The students take heed and become his friend. Everyone is surprised and happy to find out Freddy has a hidden talent that benefits all of them.
There were many things I liked about this book. First of all Freddy prayed asking God’s help on his first day and at the end of the book thanked Him for His blessings. Children can learn that we are to ask God for our needs and thank Him for all He does.
There was also a strong lesson in not looking on outward appearances. This reminded me of 1 Samuel 16:7 where God tells us He looks at the inward person and their heart. If God does it then it must be very important and we need to also. Freddy shows young readers that if we judge someone without getting to know them, we may miss valuable hidden qualities they have to contribute.
Good Christian children’s books are difficult to find, especially for younger children. The illustrations are vibrant, colorful and detailed. Each page has so much to look, just the ticket for keeping a little one’s attention. High quality is found in every part of the book, from the sturdy washable cover to the durable page; something that will last and be passed on to the next generation. Even with all this, that is not the best part.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions stated are my own. ( )

This is a fantastic children's picture/story book. The illustrations are wonderful. This book tells a nice story about a character that is a little different from the other characters. Can they learn to be friends? I received this book from bookfun.org for a fair and honest opinion. ( )

This is such a wonderful kids book. I can't wait to share it with my nephews little ones. The message is great especially now that everyone seems to judge everyone for their outside instead of what is inside.
Freddy is new to school and is feeling very isolated because he is different. Some of the class treat him differently until the teacher and even the janitor speak up showing that they are different too and they are loved. Suddenly the students give Freddy a chance and he even helps them win the championship race over the Barracudas. I love the underdog story. God makes all different and this great book shows kids that it is ok to be different.
Two things, one I enjoyed looking for the fish symbol on every page and know the kids will love it and two, the illustrations are amazing! They are eye catching and will keep the attention of the kids while you read it to them.
I recieved this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review. Thank you and God Bless ( )

FAST FREDDY BY LEE ANN MANCINI
Was happy to have received this book, especially for my grandson who we will be visiting soon. He likes creatures and these are very colorful with words he should be able to read himself.
Freddy is the new kid in town and he's afraid others won't like him. He's got the head of a shark and the body of an octopus. The others, especially the seahorse janitor tells him it's ok to be different.
Love that their teacher is a mermaid. I had just made a mermaid afghan that a child could walk in. Danny and Joey tell him he should join their swim team to help the school win.
Loved seeing all the other creatures in the race as they will be easy to pick out what they are for my grandson. The day of the big swim meet, after many times of practicing is about to start....
Ending is about a prayer Freddy says to Jesus thanking him for being so different. Didn't notice a symbol and at the end it tells you what it is so you can go find it in the book, cool idea!
I received this book from The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review ( )

Fast Freddy by Lee Ann Mancini The story behind this book is about being special in your own way. It also focuses on making new friends and learning to help with fitting in. The audience is for children and parents that have small children. There is a meaning behind the plot that teach children that it okay to be different.Your children will learn that being different is not all bad. Your children will learn how special they are. This is a great book to have it as a conversation starter. This also a good book for beginner readers. Children can learn that about being unique can be a blessing. The art and font were helpful. It was also inspiring a bit.I thought the pictures were well done. I could see the what the book was about with pictures. The words are big enough for children that are just started to read. Images were colorful. Fast Freddy is an easy read. I recommend this book for young readers. Parents can read this book as well to their children. I also like the way the author has put it together where you will learn about friendships as well. It is a fun and sweet book to read. ( )