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Toad Rage Toad Book 1 from former Australian Children's Laureate Morris Gleitzman

by Morris Gleitzman · One Toad's Olympic-Sized Adventure

About the book

This is the story of Limpy, a young cane toad living at Canetoad Pond who sets off on a determined journey to change how humans see his kind. Along the way he meets many creatures and faces surprising challenges, all while trying to understand why toads are so unpopular. Morris Gleitzman blends humour and heart in a tale that will have children cheering for an unlikely hero.

Why kids love it

Toad Rage encourages readers to think about fairness, identity, and standing up for others who are misunderstood. Limpy's persistence and courage show that even the smallest creature can make a difference. The book's playful tone and fast-paced adventure make it an enjoyable read that also opens up conversations about empathy and prejudice.

Step into the world of Toad Rage Toad Book 1 from former Australian Children's Laureate Morris Gleitzman

Pond Edge

Muddy water laps at the bank, and dragonflies stitch the air. The reeds are loud with toad voices, and somewhere beyond the gum trees the highway hums.

Reed Bank

Tall reeds whisper secrets to each other. Tiny insects skate across the water here, and on hot days the whole bank smells of green and damp.

Mudflat

Dark, squelchy mud stretches in every direction, dotted with the prints of birds and wallabies. It is a good place to hide, and a good place to think.

Sample questions

Here is the kind of thinking Toad Rage Toad Book 1 from former Australian Children's Laureate Morris Gleitzman asks for — drawn from the actual quiz:

  1. What is the name of the main character in 'Toad Rage'?

    Limpy is the brave cane toad who stars in the story.

  2. Limpy's cousin is named Goliath.

    Goliath is Limpy's big cousin who joins him on the journey.

  3. What event does Limpy want to compete in?

    Limpy dreams of going to the Olympics to show that cane toads are not just pests.

Words to know

cane toad
A large brown toad with bumpy skin that was brought to Australia from Hawaii in 1935.
pesticide
A chemical used to kill insects or other pests that harm crops.
sarcasm
Saying the opposite of what you mean in a sharp or teasing way.
revulsion
A very strong feeling of disgust or dislike.
predator
An animal that hunts and eats other animals.
environment
The natural world around us, including land, water, air, plants, and animals.
instinct
A natural way of behaving that animals are born with, without needing to learn it.
embarrassed
Feeling ashamed or shy about something.

Talk about it

  1. Why do you think Limpy is so determined to change how humans feel about cane toads?

  2. How does Limpy's opinion of humans change during his journey?

  3. What does the book suggest about judging others based on how they look?

  4. If you could talk to Limpy, what advice would you give him about his mission?

  5. How do the other animals in the story treat Limpy, and what does that teach us about friendship?

  6. What does it mean to be brave, and how does Limpy show bravery in the story?

Play the full quiz

Answer fast, earn coins, and follow your student journey through Toad Rage Toad Book 1 from former Australian Children's Laureate Morris Gleitzman.

Play Toad Rage Toad Book 1 from former Australian Children's Laureate Morris Gleitzman