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Reviewed by Constance Stadler for Readers' Favorite
Secrets of The Toad: The Win by Trisha Page begins with a snapshot of Jake and Emma, typical teenage brothers and sisters. Jake is thrilled with his new mountain bike and is focused on the upcoming baseball playoffs. He is curious about some anonymous calls. His friends subsequently tease him about them—it could be Tuba, the butt of classmate jokes. What is unique about Jake and Emma is their matter-of-fact relationship with Tobias, a talking toad with magical abilities. As the story unfolds, the narrative increasingly centers on Jake. With every visit to Tobias, Jake comes away with life-changing insights, although most are not initially understood.
Secrets of the Toad says much about what it means to be a good person. Exchanges include the limits of solely relying on perspective, unkind self-judgment, and the pain of isolation. In light of Jake's values and what Tobias has shared, the final chapters center on changes in Jake's priorities and ensuing actions. In their brevity, the chapters introduce a young reader to the structure of this and other books. As Trisha Page conveys the essence of what Tobias is teaching, it will likely resonate gradually with the reader, much as it did with Jake. Jake becomes more adept at learning these lessons by internalizing Tobias's phrases. The dynamic that develops between Jake and Tuba emphasizes why generosity matters. In a story that underscores facets of identity, spending time with this exceptional book will prove to be a worthwhile investment.
