Frog Squad: Sink or swim by Kate and Jol Temple. Illus. by Shiloh Gordon

Frog Squad: Sink or Swim is an exciting treasure hunt presented as an episode on a TV show. It is ideal for young readers 6 plus and includes engaging illustrations throughout. Expect plenty of playful puns that keep things froggy, and ‘ad breaks’ that include a humorous play on TV advertising! 

Although this is the third instalment in the series, the introduction provides sufficient recap and background for it to be enjoyed as a standalone adventure. Join the Frog Squad, a team of frogs residing on a high-tech floating base called the Lily Pad, which transports them to various locations. Discover fascinating facts about different frog species and marine life – the Captain, for example, is a Green Tree Frog, while the Professor is a Titicaca Water Frog.

The Professor needs the help of the Frog Squad, which takes them on a journey to the Bermuda Triangle in search of an ancient shipwreck treasure, a priceless pearl. The Professor has invented special Frogvision goggles that allows them to see long distances, descending to the ocean floor in a special mini submarine called the Sea Pickle. 

When the Professor gets lost in the Sea Pickle, it’s up to the Frog Squad to rescue them and race against time. Along the way, they encounter their rivals, the Toads, and a madcap battle ensues, complete with ping-pong balls and jelly.

The adventure also includes valuable lessons about the environmental impact of plastic in our oceans and looking after our natural environment. Young readers who enjoyed the humour of Kate Temple's The Under Dogs books and her picture book, Bin Chicken, will love this instalment of the Frog Squad series.

Themes: Frogs, Amphibians, Ocean creatures, Humour, Adventure, Mystery.

Ruth Tipping